Speaking to PTI on Sunday, February 15, Prime Minister Narendra Modi spoke on several topics, including the government’s approach to budgeting, the role of women in achieving Viksit Bharat, tariff preferences and the government’s three priorities for the next decade.
PM Modi highlighted India’s strong fiscal strategy and its resilience to global challenges. He highlighted the importance of innovation for growth, continued pressure on infrastructure and the government’s commitment to the welfare of soldiers and modernization of defense capabilities.
Here are the top ten topics discussed by PM Modi —
Union budget
Speaking about the government’s approach to budget preparation, PM Modi said, “None of our budgets are regular ‘bahi-khata’ documents; that is not our approach.”
A reflection on national character amid global tensions
In a challenging global environment, Prime Minister Modi highlighted India’s growth and the strength of its national character.
“Our national character has been shown even in challenging times; we are a bright point of growth in difficult global conditions,” he said.
Tariff preferences can be a catalyst for growth
PM Modi emphasized that while incentives and tariff preferences can drive growth, long-term competitiveness depends on innovation, efficiency and scale.
“Incentives and tariff preferences can spur growth, but sustained competitiveness must rest on innovation, efficiency and scale,” he said.
Record of exports
India’s exports of goods have repeatedly surpassed previous records in recent years, Prime Minister Modi said.
Three priorities for the next decade
PM Modi outlines three key reform priorities for the next decade, which will include structural reforms, deeper innovation and simplified governance.
“More structural reforms, deeper innovation and simpler governance,” he said, highlighting three reforms at the same time.
Focus on infrastructure
Talking about the government’s focus on infrastructure, PM Modi said, “India is witnessing the largest infra push in its history, built with future readiness in mind.”
The role of women in Viksit Bharat’s dream
According to PM Modi, women will be key to achieving Viksit Bharat and their welfare is the guiding principle for all government decisions.
“I am confident that women will play the most important role in creating Viksit Bharat,” PM Modi said, adding, “I want to state unequivocally that every decision taken by our government is guided by the welfare of women.”
What does post-pandemic India look like?
According to Prime Minister Modi, the post-pandemic era brings new opportunities for India.
“We live in a post-pandemic world that is opening new doors for India,” he said.
On India’s Defense Budget
Talking about the defense budget and modernisation, PM Modi said, “India has to be strong and ready at all times and that is what we are doing.”
The well-being of the soldiers
PM Modi emphasized the government’s commitment to the welfare of soldiers.
“The government is very sensitive about the ‘welfare’ of its soldiers,” PM Modi told a news agency.