Narendra Modi

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has asserted that India must remain constantly prepared to address evolving security challenges, emphasising the need for sustained defence modernisation as the country’s global role expands. In an interview with a news agency, Modi said the gains from a decade of defence reforms were clearly visible during Operation Sindoor, underscoring the importance of continued preparedness. He stressed that as India assumes greater responsibility on the world stage, it has a duty to upgrade its defence capabilities in line with contemporary realities. Highlighting the government’s commitment, the Prime Minister pointed to the allocation of ₹7.85 lakh crore for the defence sector in the Union Budget 2026–27. He noted that the outlay represents a 15 per cent increase over the previous year and constitutes the largest share of funds allocated to any ministry or department. Modi described the current Union Budget as a reflection of India’s aspiration to emerge as a developed nation. He said the Budget signals not a moment of compulsion but a declaration of readiness — a “we are ready” phase built on preparation and confidence. The Prime Minister also emphasised tax incentives announced in the Budget, stating that they are intended to boost investment, reduce the cost of setting up advanced infrastructure, and establish India as a globally competitive hub for data infrastructure. He invited global data players to consider India as a destination for hosting and expanding their digital operations. Outlining the roadmap for the next decade, Modi identified three core priorities: structural reforms, deeper innovation, and simpler governance. He asserted that the government’s “Reform Express” is delivering tangible benefits to citizens and accelerating economic transformation. He further highlighted the central role of women in achieving the vision of Viksit Bharat, stating that government initiatives are designed to empower women and enhance their participation in nation-building. On international trade, the Prime Minister said India’s political stability and predictability have restored investor confidence. He noted that strengthened manufacturing, services, and MSMEs have enabled the country to negotiate trade agreements from a position of strength. According to him, India’s Free Trade Agreements aim to expand market access for MSMEs across sectors such as textiles, leather, chemicals, handicrafts, and gems. Modi also criticised the previous UPA government, alleging that economic mismanagement had weakened India’s negotiating position in the past. He reiterated that reform remains a core commitment of his administration and has been pursued both in intent and execution. Calling the private sector a key driver of the next phase of economic transformation, the Prime Minister urged businesses to respond decisively. He encouraged companies to look beyond short-term margins and invest more aggressively in research and development, supply chains, quality enhancement, and long-term capacity building. Modi said the journey towards Viksit Bharat will depend on bold private-sector investment in innovation and global competitiveness. While acknowledging the progress made so far, he remarked that he is never fully satisfied, adding that public life requires constructive restlessness and a continuous drive to achieve more for the nation. Source: newsonair