Mandaviya Declares Pakistan Lacks Locus Standi to Comment on India's Internal Affairs at Doha Summit

Union Minister Mansukh Mandaviya criticised Pakistan for commenting on India's internal matters, urging it to stop misusing international platforms. He accused Pakistan of cross-border terrorism against India and advised introspection. Mandaviya was speaking at the Second World Summit for Social Development in Doha, Qatar, where he objected to remarks made by Pakistan's President about India.

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Mandaviya highlighted that Pakistan has undermined the Indus Waters Treaty through hostility and terrorism. He stated that Pakistan frequently misuses the treaty mechanisms to hinder India's legitimate projects. Regarding Jammu and Kashmir, he reiterated that Pakistan has no right to comment on India's internal affairs, especially while engaging in terrorism against Indian citizens.

India's Development Achievements Highlighted

Mandaviya emphasised India's economic growth and social progress, noting significant achievements over the past decade. He mentioned that around 250 million Indians have been lifted out of multidimensional poverty through reforms, welfare programmes, and digital innovation. The philosophy of Antyodaya guides India in empowering its citizens.

The minister shared that 118 million schoolchildren receive nutritious mid-day meals, and over 800 million citizens benefit from food security. Health security has reached 425 million Indians, and more than 37 million houses have been provided to low-income families. From 2017-18 to 2023-24, unemployment dropped from 6% to 3.2%, with women's employment nearly doubling.

Social Security and Global Partnerships

India's social security coverage increased from 19% in 2015 to 64.3% in 2025. The International Social Security Association awarded India for its achievements in social security this year. Mandaviya stressed the importance of efficient programme delivery through bank accounts, mobile internet, and unique citizen IDs.

The Political Declaration adopted at the summit aligns with global priorities like women-led development and digital infrastructure. Mandaviya stated that India's growth aligns with Sustainable Development Goals and climate commitments. "We remain steadfast on the 17 Sustainable Development Goals agenda of the UN," he told global leaders.

Mandaviya concluded by saying that India's development model offers an example for the Global South. He expressed India's readiness to share best practices in social development to enhance global partnerships. "India believes that social progress is achievable when people remain at the core of policy," he said.

With inputs from PTI