New Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday inaugurated the General Budget Session of Parliament, framing the discussion around national confidence, youth aspirations, and India’s long-term vision of becoming a developed nation by 2047. He described President Droupadi Murmu’s address as a reflection of the hard work and hopes of 140 crore Indians, emphasizing the Budget Session as a key milestone in India’s 21st-century journey.
Speaking at the session’s start, Modi highlighted that India has entered a decisive phase of the 21st century, with the first quarter already complete and the second quarter now beginning. He called the upcoming Union Budget the first Budget of this new quarter-century, underscoring its role in shaping the country’s growth and transformation over the next 25 years.
Historic Milestone for Women in Parliament
The Prime Minister lauded Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, who is set to present the Union Budget for the ninth consecutive time. Modi termed this achievement a matter of pride in India’s parliamentary history and a landmark in women’s leadership in governance, reinforcing the growing prominence of women in policymaking and national decision-making.
India’s Positive Start to 2026: Global Recognition and Economic Opportunities
Modi noted that 2026 has begun on a highly positive note, positioning India as a global ray of hope and an emerging center of attraction for international trade and investment. Highlighting the recent India–European Union Free Trade Agreement (FTA), he called it a historic deal and described it as:
- “Free trade for an ambitious India”
- “Free trade for aspirational youth”
- “Free trade for Atmanirbhar Bharat”
He urged Indian manufacturers and producers to view the European market as more than an opportunity for exports, but as a strategic chance to upgrade competitiveness and quality. Modi emphasized, “The first mantra when markets open is quality,” noting that world-class products not only generate revenue but also build long-term trust and strengthen India’s national brand globally.
The FTA is expected to unlock opportunities for farmers, fishermen, youth, and the services sector, particularly for those seeking international employment and mobility.
‘Reform, Perform, Transform’ and the Rise of the Reform Express
While national attention is naturally focused on the Union Budget, Modi reiterated the government’s commitment to the mantra of “Reform, Perform, Transform”. He said India is moving at high speed on a “Reform Express”, crediting Parliament and lawmakers for enabling momentum in implementing reforms.
According to Modi, long-term solutions create predictability, a key factor in building global trust and confidence. He reaffirmed that government decisions are guided by national progress and are designed to be human-centric, ensuring policies deliver tangible results to citizens.
Technology with a Human-First Approach
Modi underscored that technology will be leveraged to improve governance, but always in a human-centric and inclusive manner. He stressed that reforms and innovations should not remain bureaucratic or paper-bound, but reach citizens on the ground.
He highlighted the government’s push for next-generation reforms, which aim to enhance delivery, efficiency, and governance outcomes, ensuring that every scheme touches the lives of the people it is intended for.
Parliament Urged to Prioritize Solutions Over Disruptions
Calling India’s democracy and demographic dividend a global source of hope, Modi emphasized that the Budget Session is an opportunity for constructive policymaking. He appealed to lawmakers to focus on solutions rather than disruptions, saying:
“Today is not the time for obstacles. Today is the time for solutions.”
The Prime Minister urged MPs to strengthen decision-making, accelerate reforms, and ensure successful last-mile delivery for the nation, reinforcing India’s commitment to democracy and global confidence in its governance model.
Key Takeaways
- India enters a decisive phase of the 21st century, with the upcoming Budget shaping the next 25 years.
- Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman to present her ninth consecutive Union Budget.
- India–EU FTA described as historic, unlocking opportunities for youth, farmers, and the services sector.
- Government to continue on the Reform Express, with tech-driven, human-centric governance.
- Parliament urged to focus on solutions rather than disruptions during the session.
