China in 2024: Prioritizing People in Modernization Efforts
China has continued to forge ahead on its path to modernization in 2024, distinguishing itself by placing the well-being of its people at the heart of its development strategies. Unlike models in some developed countries that prioritize capital, Chinese-style modernization is fundamentally centered around its citizens.
“As far as Chinese modernization is concerned, the people’s well-being matters the most,” President Xi Jinping remarked during his inspection of Chongqing Municipality in April. This philosophy has been the guiding force behind the country’s endeavors to improve the lives of its 1.4 billion people.
Serving the People
President Xi has consistently emphasized that every issue affecting the populace, no matter how big or small, deserves utmost attention. Throughout the year, he has visited numerous communities, engaging directly with ordinary citizens to understand their daily lives, concerns, and aspirations.
During a visit to a multi-ethnic residential community in Yinchuan, Ningxia Hui Autonomous Region, in June, President Xi stated, “The Communist Party of China is dedicated to serving the people, and the well-being of the people of all ethnic groups and every household is my concern.” His hands-on approach reflects the government’s commitment to addressing issues such as income, housing, healthcare, education, and elderly care.
In line with this commitment, China allocated 70 percent of its government expenditure in 2024 toward ensuring the people’s well-being. The national general public budget increased by 4 percent from the previous year, reaching approximately 28.55 trillion yuan ($3.91 trillion). Significant investments were made in education, social insurance, and employment, each surpassing 4 trillion yuan.
A Bumper Harvest and Rural Prosperity
Grain security and rural revitalization have been pivotal on President Xi’s agenda. He has frequently toured the countryside, interacting with farmers and workers in fields, greenhouses, and orchards to gain in-depth insights into agricultural life.
In March, while visiting a village in Hunan Province, President Xi underscored the importance of securing China’s grain supply. He stressed boosting both the quantity and quality of grain production, ensuring that farmers benefit economically from their labor.
These efforts have yielded fruitful results. According to the National Bureau of Statistics, China’s total grain output in 2024 exceeded 706 million tonnes, marking a 1.6 percent increase over the previous year and setting a new record high. This achievement was supported by an expansion in grain planting areas to over 119 million hectares and a 1.3 percent increase in grain output per unit area.
Further bolstering food security, China’s food security law came into effect in June, aiming to ensure a stable supply of grain and related products.
Accelerating Rural Revitalization
Following the eradication of absolute poverty in February 2021, China’s focus has shifted to revitalizing rural areas as part of its modernization drive. During an inspection tour of Hubei Province in November 2024, President Xi emphasized the necessity of accelerating rural revitalization to advance Chinese modernization.
To support this initiative, China has identified 160 key counties for national rural revitalization assistance and allocated over 177 billion yuan in subsidies in 2024. These funds are directed toward improving infrastructure, enhancing living conditions, and promoting sustainable development in rural communities.
The impact of these efforts is evident. In the first three quarters of the year, the per capita disposable income of rural residents reached 16,740 yuan, reflecting a real-term annual increase of 6.3 percent. The government also invested 7.4 billion yuan to improve production and living conditions in ethnic minority villages, fostering inclusive growth.
To prevent populations from slipping back into poverty, China has implemented monitoring and support mechanisms. By the end of September, approximately 60 percent of those at risk had stabilized their situations, with assistance provided to others in need.
Employment programs have also played a critical role. Work-relief initiatives in the first three quarters created 2.45 million jobs for low-income workers, distributing 31 billion yuan in wages. By the end of October, employment among poverty-stricken populations reached over 33 million, surpassing annual targets and reinforcing the foundations of poverty alleviation.
Looking Ahead
China’s commitment to putting people at the center of its modernization efforts continues to drive its policies and initiatives. By focusing on improving livelihoods, enhancing food security, and revitalizing rural areas, the country is charting a path of development that aims to benefit all its citizens.
As President Xi has articulated, the essence of Chinese-style modernization is the well-being of the people. This approach not only fosters domestic harmony and prosperity but also contributes to global stability and development.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
