Ahead of the Budget session on Friday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi reaffirmed his government’s commitment to all-round development in its third term, highlighting innovation, inclusion, and investment as the key pillars of India’s economic growth strategy.
Speaking to the media outside Parliament ahead of President Droupadi Murmu’s address to a joint sitting of the two Houses, PM Modi outlined his government’s approach, saying, “In our third term, we are in mission mode. Innovation, inclusion, and investment — this is the roadmap of our economic development.”
Invoking Goddess Lakshmi, the symbol of wealth and prosperity, PM Modi expressed hope that the upcoming session would “infuse new energy and hope” to achieve the vision of a developed India, or Viksit Bharat, by 2047.
“I pray that Maa Lakshmi continues to bless the poor and middle class of our country,” PM Modi said.
He noted that the session would discuss several historic bills, with a special focus on enhancing women’s rights and ensuring gender equality. “We will focus on decisions that secure the dignity of women and provide them with equal rights,” PM Modi said, stressing that these measures would strengthen the nation and enhance the pride of Indian women.
PM Modi also highlighted the significance of this budget, the first full budget of his third term, and confidently projected that by 2047, when India celebrates 100 years of independence, the country will achieve its goal of becoming a developed nation. “This budget will give new energy and hope to the nation, and 140 crore people will fulfill this vow,” he stated.
Reiterating his government’s mantra of “Reform, Perform, and Transform,” PM Modi emphasized the importance of collaboration between the Centre and the states in driving the nation’s transformation.
He emphasized that today’s youth will reap the benefits of development as India undergoes its transformation into a developed nation. “Ours is a youthful nation, and those who are 25-26 years old today will be the beneficiaries of Viksit Bharat. They’ll see the benefits when they turn 45-46.”
PM Modi pointed out that this is the first Parliament session since 2014 where he has observed “no foreign interference” in India’s internal affairs.
He described the upcoming Budget session as a “golden opportunity” for Members of Parliament, especially the younger MPs, to actively contribute to the country’s progress and development.
(With inputs from agencies)