These measures, he said, would reduce dependence on foreign shipping, where India currently spends nearly Rs 6 lakh crore annually. He noted that Ayushman Bharat has provided free hospital treatment to over 11 crore citizens, including 2.5 crore poor patients in the past year. On economic growth, Deb praised the success of Startup India, which has transformed India into the world’s third-largest startup ecosystem. Over 20 lakh youth are employed in this sector, with 45 percent of startups led by women. Infrastructure investment has been another cornerstone, with more than ₹50 lakh crore spent in recent years.