External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar, while receiving the 'India First' award at NDTV’s Indian of the Year ceremony, celebrated the crucial role of India's democracy in shaping the country's growth. He emphasized how democracy has brought forward voices from every part of the nation, not just metropolitan cities, giving equal representation to all sections of society. This inclusiveness, he argued, has been pivotal in driving India’s development. He also noted that success today is no longer limited to urban areas but has become more representative of the entire country.

Jaishankar also reflected on India’s remarkable transformation in recent years, crediting Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership for modernizing the nation. Under Modi’s vision, he highlighted key reforms and India’s growing global influence, which have resulted in substantial achievements, such as the successful Chandrayaan Moon mission, bullet train projects, and addressing national security challenges, particularly with China and Pakistan. The minister expressed pride in India’s ability to face challenges with determination, contrasting the country’s earlier passivity in the aftermath of the 26/11 attacks with its more assertive responses in recent years.

In his speech, Jaishankar praised the current generation for its achievements, calling it a “can-do” generation. He cited India’s success in hosting the G20 Summit as an example of the country’s growing international stature. The External Affairs Minister also acknowledged the privilege of representing India globally, underscoring the significant role he plays in shaping and projecting the country's foreign policy.