New Delhi: Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman on Sunday lauded the Narendra Modi-led government for its decisive policy measures and reform-driven agenda, emphasizing that the administration has consistently chosen action over ambivalence, reforms over rhetoric, and people over populism. She delivered these remarks while presenting her ninth consecutive Union Budget in the Lok Sabha, outlining the government’s vision for a resilient and growth-oriented India.
In her speech, Sitharaman underscored the government’s record of structural reforms and fiscal discipline over the past 12 years. “Since we assumed office, India’s economic journey has been defined by stability, sustained growth, fiscal prudence, and moderate inflation, even amidst global uncertainty and disruptions,” she said, highlighting the conscious policy choices that have shaped the nation’s trajectory.
The finance minister noted that Aatmanirbharta (self-reliance) has been a guiding principle, reflected in initiatives to strengthen domestic manufacturing, energy security, and reduce critical import dependencies. At the same time, she said, the government has ensured that citizens directly benefit from these policies through measures that enhance employment opportunities, boost agricultural productivity, increase household purchasing power, and expand access to universal services.
According to Sitharaman, these reforms have helped India achieve a robust growth rate of around 7%, while also making significant progress in poverty reduction and overall improvements in living standards.
Addressing the current global context, she highlighted challenges such as disrupted trade routes, resource access constraints, and a shifting multilateral landscape. “India will continue its path toward a Viksit Bharat, balancing ambition with inclusion. As a growing economy with increasing trade and capital needs, India must remain integrated with global markets, export more, and attract stable long-term investment,” she asserted.
The Finance Minister’s speech framed Budget 2026 as a roadmap for sustained economic growth, resilience in the face of global uncertainties, and continued structural transformation, reflecting the government’s long-term vision for India as a self-reliant and globally competitive economy.