India’s democracy, demography beacon of hope for world: PM

New Delhi, Jan 29: The Prime Minister Narendra Modi Thursday addressed the media before the start of the Budget Session of 2026 at the Parliament premises.
The Prime Minister remarked that the President’s address was an expression of the confidence of 140 crore citizens, an account of their hard work, and a precise reflection of the aspirations of the youth. He highlighted that the President placed before all Members of Parliament several guiding points at the very beginning of the session and of the year 2026.
Modi stated that the expectations expressed by the President in simple words, as the Head of State, would certainly have been taken seriously by all MPs, making this session a very important one. He emphasized that this is the Budget Session, marking the completion of the first quarter of the 21st century and the beginning of the second quarter.
He underlined that the next 25 years are crucial to achieving the goal of a developed India by 2047, and this budget is the first of the second quarter of the century. The Prime Minister noted that Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, the country’s first woman Finance Minister, is presenting the budget for the ninth consecutive time in Parliament, registering a proud moment in India’s parliamentary history.
Highlighting that the year has begun on a very positive note, with a confident India emerging as a ray of hope and a center of attraction for the world, Modi remarked that the Free Trade Agreement between India and the European Union at the start of this quarter reflects the bright future of India’s youth and the promising directions ahead.
He emphasized that this agreement is free trade for an ambitious India, for aspirational youth, and for an Atmanirbhar Bharat. The Prime Minister expressed firm belief that India’s manufacturers will seize this opportunity to enhance their capacities. He urged all producers that with what is called the “Mother of All Deals” between India and the European Union, a vast market has now opened, and Indian goods will reach there at lower costs.
He cautioned that industry leaders and manufacturers should not remain complacent, but instead focus on quality. He stressed that entering this open market with the best quality products will not only earn profits from buyers across 27 EU countries but also win their hearts, creating long-lasting impact for decades. He noted that companies’ brands, aligned with the nation’s brand, will establish new prestige.
Modi underlined that this agreement with 27 countries brings immense opportunities for India’s fishermen, farmers, youth, and those in the services sector eager to explore global avenues. He expressed confidence that this marks a significant step towards a confident, competitive, and productive India.
The Prime Minister remarked that while national attention naturally turns towards the Budget, the identity of this government has been Reform, Perform, and Transform. He highlighted that the nation is now moving rapidly on the Reform Express, and expressed gratitude to all Members of Parliament for contributing their positive energy to accelerate this reform journey. He stated that the country is moving away from long-term pending problems towards long-term solutions, which create predictability and build global trust.
Modi emphasized that every decision aimed at national progress remains human-centric. He underlined that while India will compete with technology, absorb it, and accept its power, the government will never compromise on human-centric systems, advancing with a vision that balances technology with sensitivity. He noted that even critics acknowledge the government’s focus on last-mile delivery, ensuring schemes reach lives and not just files.
He stressed that this tradition will continue with next-generation reforms on the Reform Express. The Prime Minister highlighted that India’s democracy and demography are today a great hope for the world, and in this temple of democracy, India has the opportunity to send a message of strength, commitment to democracy, and respect for decisions taken through democratic processes—messages welcomed and accepted globally.
Modi asserted that the present time is not for disruption but for solutions, not for obstacles but for resolution. He called upon all Members of Parliament to join in accelerating the era of solutions, empowering decisions, and advancing last-mile delivery successfully. He concluded by extending his heartfelt thanks and best wishes to all.