NEW DELHI, Feb 15: Prime Minister Narendra Modi sharply criticised the UPA government, saying its “economic mismanagement” left India unable to negotiate trade deals effectively, with talks often stalling and little substantive outcome.
He credited his government’s reforms, policy predictability, and political stability for enabling India to conclude Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) with 38 countries, including the UK, EU, Australia, New Zealand, and the US.
These agreements offer near-zero tariffs, greater market access, and deeper integration of Indian goods and services into global supply chains.
Modi highlighted the benefits for MSMEs, labour-intensive sectors, manufacturing, and services, stressing that the deals support structural transformation rather than just boosting trade figures.
He said the FTAs reinforce India’s global confidence, competitiveness, and long-term vision of becoming a more open and prosperous economy by 2047, while creating opportunities for youth and enhancing India’s global influence.
Decade of defence reforms paid off in Operation Sindoor
Prime Minister Narendra Modi said the benefits of a decade of defence reforms were evident during Operation Sindoor, highlighting India’s need to remain prepared for security challenges.
He cited the record Rs 7.85 lakh crore allocation for defence in the 2026-27 Union Budget, a 15% increase over the previous year, with Rs 1.85 lakh crore earmarked for modernisation and 75% of capital expenditure reserved for domestic procurement.
Modi emphasized self-reliance, indigenous production, and defence exports, which have risen nearly 35-fold over the past decade.
He also noted the government’s focus on ex-servicemen welfare, including a 45% hike in healthcare funding and the fulfillment of the long-standing OROP demand.
The prime minister underlined continuous support for armed forces, modernisation, and strengthening domestic defence industries to enhance national security and create jobs.
Public life demands constructive restlessness: PM
Prime Minister Narendra Modi said he is “never fully satisfied” by temperament and that public life demands a “constructive restlessness”, a constant drive to do more, improve faster, and serve better.
In an exclusive PTI interview, he reflected on the ongoing journey of the “Reform Express,” noting that while India has made significant progress across various sectors, the government continues to aim higher.
Modi emphasized that reforms under his leadership have evolved from incremental adjustments to systemic transformations, showcasing the government’s commitment in both letter and spirit.
He highlighted that the desire to serve the people and propel the nation forward remains relentless.
According to the prime minister, it is crucial to acknowledge the achievements made so far while maintaining the ambition to achieve more, as this balance of recognition and drive is central to effective governance. (PTI)
