Modi: on Thursday, projected confidence in India’s economic direction, describing the opening of the current quarter as encouraging and positioning the country as a source of optimism at a time of global uncertainty. Speaking to reporters ahead of the Budget Session 2026, he said India’s recent developments reflected stability, ambition, and a growing international role.

India’s Rising Profile on the Global Stage

The Prime Minister noted that India has increasingly drawn global attention, both for its economic resilience and its expanding engagement with major international partners. He pointed to the signing of a Free Trade Agreement between India and the European Union at the start of the quarter as a significant milestone. According to him, the agreement underlines India’s readiness to participate more deeply in global trade while creating new opportunities for its younger population.

He said the agreement signals confidence in India’s long-term economic prospects and demonstrates how the country is being viewed as a reliable and forward-looking partner. The development, he added, reinforces India’s growing influence in international economic discussions.

Free Trade Agreement Linked to Youth and Industry

Emphasising the broader meaning of the India–EU trade pact, the Prime Minister described it as an agreement aligned with the aspirations of a self-reliant and ambitious nation. He highlighted its potential to support India’s manufacturing sector by opening markets, improving competitiveness, and encouraging innovation.

According to him, Indian manufacturers are well placed to benefit from the agreement by upgrading capabilities and strengthening their presence in global supply chains. He expressed confidence that the pact would contribute to building a more productive and competitive economy, while supporting employment and skills development, particularly for younger workers.

Budget to Reflect Reform-Oriented Governance

Turning to the upcoming Union Budget, the Prime Minister said public focus on the Budget was natural but stressed that it should be seen within the broader context of the government’s reform agenda. He reiterated that the administration’s approach has consistently centred on reform, performance, and transformation.

He acknowledged the role of Members of Parliament in advancing legislative changes, saying their cooperation has helped accelerate reforms across sectors. According to him, this momentum has allowed the government to move more quickly on structural changes aimed at long-term growth rather than short-term fixes.

Focus on Human-Centric Development

The Prime Minister underlined that government policies continue to prioritise people at the centre of development. He said many long-pending challenges are now being addressed through durable solutions, with the aim of ensuring sustained progress rather than temporary relief.

He also spoke about balancing technological advancement with human values. While recognising the importance of adopting and competing in new technologies, he said such progress should not come at the cost of sensitivity or inclusion. Instead, he called for a partnership between technology and human-centric systems, ensuring innovation supports social well-being.

Next 25 Years Seen as Decisive Phase

Reflecting on the broader timeline of national development, the Prime Minister observed that one quarter of the 21st century has passed, marking the start of a new and critical phase. He said the coming 25 years would be decisive in achieving the vision of a developed India by 2047.

He also drew attention to the upcoming Budget as the first of this new phase, calling it symbolically important. In this context, he highlighted the role of Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, noting that she would present the Budget for the ninth consecutive time. He described this as a notable moment in parliamentary history and a reflection of continuity in economic leadership.