Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday said that the Budget Session of Parliament marks a significant step towards achieving the goal of Viksit Bharat 2047, with the Centre focused on accelerating reforms and moving towards long-term solutions for pending issues.
Addressing mediapersons at the start of the Budget Session, PM Modi referred to the President's address to Parliament and said it reflected the confidence and aspirations of 140 crore Indians. He expressed confidence that Members of Parliament would take the President's expectations seriously.
Highlighting that one-fourth of the 21st century has already passed, the Prime Minister said India has now embarked on a crucial 25-year journey that will define the country's future direction and its role in the global order.
He also noted that the commencement of the India–European Union Free Trade Agreement (FTA) reflects the spirit of an "ambitious, confident and Atmanirbhar Bharat". According to him, the agreement offers a glimpse of a bright future for India and its youth.
"This is free trade for ambitious Bharat, confident youth and Atmanirbhar Bharat," PM Modi said, adding that Indian manufacturers should see the pact not merely as reduced taxation, but as an opportunity to emphasise quality and strengthen their global presence.
"If we enter global markets with superior quality, we will win the hearts of the 27 EU member states. This will have a long-term impact," he said.
The Prime Minister said the agreement would open up significant opportunities for farmers, youth and professionals in the services sector eager to explore international markets, calling it a major step towards a confident, competitive and productive India.
Speaking about Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, PM Modi said she has created history by becoming the first finance minister to present the Union Budget for the ninth consecutive time, calling it a proud moment for parliamentary democracy.
Referring to the government's broader functioning, he said its core ethos continues to be "reform, performance and transformation".
"We have boarded the 'Reform Express' and it is now gathering speed. I thank all MPs for their constructive contributions in accelerating this journey," he said.
The Prime Minister stressed that the government is moving away from long-pending issues towards predictable, long-term solutions that strengthen international trust, while remaining firmly human-centric.
"We will adopt technology and use its full potential, but without compromising on human values and constitutional principles," he said.
Acknowledging that criticism and differing views are natural in a democracy, PM Modi said there is widespread recognition that the government has prioritised last-mile delivery.
"It is not just about files moving, but about reaching lives. This tradition will continue as we take next-generation reforms forward," he said.
Stressing India's growing global relevance, PM Modi said the country's democracy and demography today offer great hope to the world.
"In this temple of democracy, we have an opportunity to convey our capabilities, our commitment to democratic values and the credibility of decisions taken through democratic processes," he said, adding that India is now moving forward with timely, solution-oriented action.
(With inputs from IANS)
