India on Steady Growth Path Despite Global Instability: PM Modi

Prime Minister Narendra Modi stated that India is confidently advancing on its growth path despite global instability. He highlighted the importance of leveraging India's demographic dividend and promoting women-led development as key drivers for achieving a developed India (Viksit Bharat).

The Prime Minister also emphasized the role of cooperative federalism and collaboration between states and the center.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday said India remains on a steady growth path despite a volatile global environment, underlining that the country's focus on free trade agreements (FTAs), youth development and cooperative federalism will be key to achieving the goal of a developed nation by 2047.

Chairing the 11th meeting of the Governing Council of NITI Aayog, Modi said India has continued to advance "with confidence and determination" even as the world grapples with uncertainty and instability.

"The world is passing through a period of uncertainty and instability, yet India continues to move forward on its growth trajectory with confidence and determination," NITI Aayog said in a post on X, quoting the Prime Minister.

Modi said India's recent free trade agreements with multiple countries are opening up fresh opportunities for exports and businesses, particularly for the country's micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs).

"These agreements also present a significant opportunity for our MSMEs, enabling them to prepare for global markets by adhering to international standards and enhancing competitiveness," he said.

The Prime Minister also stressed the need to harness India's young population, describing the country's demographic advantage as a "historic opportunity".

"India's demographic dividend is a historic opportunity that we cannot afford to lose," Modi said, adding that governments must focus on building the right ecosystem through quality education, demand-driven skilling and greater employment opportunities.

"Empowered youth will be the driving force behind our journey towards Viksit Bharat," he added.

Calling for closer collaboration between the Centre and states, Modi said dialogue and cooperation should remain the foundation of policymaking. He added that NITI Aayog can serve as a platform where states exchange ideas and work together to achieve the vision of Viksit Bharat.

The Prime Minister also highlighted the role of women in India's growth story, describing women-led development as a key pillar of the country's long-term vision.

"From farming and startups to science and innovation, Nari Shakti is contributing across the domains," Modi said. He urged states to focus on education, skilling, safety and empowerment of women to unlock their full potential and strengthen India's development journey.

Reiterating the importance of cooperative federalism, Modi said, "Guided by the spirit of cooperative federalism, we are working together to accelerate India's development journey. The collective efforts of the Centre and States will play a pivotal role in realising our shared vision of Viksit Bharat."