Prime Minister Narendra Modi on January 29 urged MPs to keep the focus on the Union Budget and reforms, pitching the President’s address as a signal of national confidence and linking India’s growth ambitions to what he called the India-EU FTA 'mother of all deals'.
Speaking at the start of the Budget Session in New Delhi, Modi also underlined what he described as a historic milestone for Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, who is set to present the Union Budget for 2026–27 on February 1, her ninth straight Budget.
PM Modi’s key quotes
On the President’s address: “The President’s address is an expression of the confidence of 140 crore citizens and outlines the aspirations of the youth.”
On reforms and Parliament’s role: “Parliamentarians should contribute and support the reform express.”
On India’s reform trajectory: “We are now on the path of long-term solutions after emerging from an age of long-term problems.”
On technology and governance: “Our technological reforms are human-centric.”
On India’s global position: “India’s democracy and demography are big pillars of global strength.”
On what lies ahead: “In the coming days, we will move forward with next-generation reforms.”
On the India-EU free trade agreement: “The India-EU FTA is a big step towards a confident, competitive India.”
On manufacturing and exports: Calling it the “mother of all deals,” Modi said the agreement opens up a vast market for Indian manufacturers and stressed the need to focus on quality. “We must ensure the best quality of products go to the EU. Quality will ensure a lasting impact spanning decades and establish the India brand in Europe.”
On the Budget session’s focus: “It is important for the nation to focus on the Budget. Reform, Perform and Transform remain key objectives.”
Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman is scheduled to table the Economic Survey in Parliament on January 29, offering a detailed assessment of the Indian economy ahead of the Union Budget for 2026–27, which she will present on February 1.
The upcoming Budget will mark Sitharaman’s ninth consecutive Budget, making her the first finance minister—and the first woman—to achieve the milestone.
Discover the latest Business News, Sensex, and Nifty updates. Obtain Personal Finance insights, tax queries, and expert opinions on Moneycontrol or download the Moneycontrol App to stay updated!
Find the best of Al News in one place, specially curated for you every weekend.
Stay on top of the latest tech trends and biggest startup news.
