New Delhi, Jan 29 (NationPress) Prime Minister Narendra Modi stated on Thursday that the inception of the India-European Union Free Trade Agreement embodies the essence of an “ambitious, confident, and Aatmanirbhar Bharat”.

While addressing reporters at the commencement of the Budget Session, the Prime Minister remarked that during this phase of the 21st century, India has emerged as a “beacon of hope” and a “center of attraction” for the global community. He emphasized that the world’s increasing focus on India signifies a rising confidence in the nation’s economic and democratic resilience.

“As we embark on this quarter, the India-European Union Free Trade Agreement provides a glimpse into the promising future for India and its youth. This initiative fosters free trade for an ambitious Bharat, a confident youth, and an Aatmanirbhar Bharat,” he remarked.

PM Modi expressed his optimism that Indian manufacturers would capitalize on the opportunities presented by the agreement to broaden and fortify their global presence. He underscored the necessity of prioritizing quality as markets further open up.

“When the monumental agreement is finalized between India and Europe, our industrialists and manufacturers should not merely consider that ‘our goods will now be traded with reduced taxes’. This serves as a chance to highlight quality. Now that the market is accessible, we must enter it with the highest standards. By presenting superior quality, we can win the favor of the 27 member states of the EU. This will yield a lasting impact,” he stated.

He elaborated that the agreement with 27 nations would unveil significant prospects for India’s farmers, youth, and professionals in the services sector eager to explore international markets. “I firmly believe this is a pivotal move towards a confident, competitive, and productive India,” he asserted.

PM Modi further indicated that the Budget Session of Parliament signifies a crucial step towards realizing the vision of Viksit Bharat 2047, with the government dedicated to the ‘Reform Express’ and progressing towards long-term resolutions for ongoing challenges.

The Prime Minister also referred to the President’s address to Parliament, stating, “The President’s address yesterday mirrored the confidence of 140 crore Indians and their aspirations. She articulated her expectations from parliamentarians in simple yet profound terms, sharing her sentiments as the leader of the nation. I trust that all MPs will take these words to heart.”

Highlighting that a quarter of the 21st century has already elapsed, PM Modi remarked that the nation has now embarked on a vital 25-year journey to fulfill the vision of Viksit Bharat 2047. He noted that this period will be instrumental in defining India’s future trajectory and its role within the global arena.

On the topic of Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, the Prime Minister noted, “She is the first Finance Minister to present the Budget in Parliament for the ninth consecutive time. This is a momentous event in India’s parliamentary history.”

Regarding the broader operations of the government, the Prime Minister reiterated that while national attention is understandably focused on the Budget, the core principles of the government remain “reform, performance, and transformation.”

“We have swiftly joined the ‘Reform Express’. I appreciate all MPs for their constructive contributions in propelling this ‘Reform Express’. Consequently, progress is being made,” he expressed.

PM Modi emphasized the government’s shift from long-standing issues towards implementing sustainable solutions, highlighting that such resolutions foster predictability and bolster international trust. He asserted that every governmental decision aims at advancement and development while maintaining a human-centric approach.

“We will embrace technology, harness its capabilities, but we will not compromise on a human-centric strategy. While acknowledging the significance of constitutional values, we will advance with a thoughtful integration of technology,” he stated.

He remarked that differing opinions and critiques are inherent in a democracy, but there is widespread acknowledgment that the government has prioritized last-mile delivery.

“It’s not merely about paperwork moving along; it’s about impacting lives. This tradition will persist as we further next-generation reforms through the Reform Express,” he affirmed.

Emphasizing India’s global significance, PM Modi asserted that India’s democracy and demography currently offer tremendous promise to the world.

“In this democratic arena, we have the opportunity to communicate our capabilities, our dedication to democratic principles, and the credibility of decisions made through democratic processes to the global community. The world acknowledges and appreciates this,” he stated.

“Today, the nation is progressing not through delays, but through timely actions. This is not the time to dwell on challenges. Today is the era for courageous, solution-driven choices. I encourage all esteemed Members of Parliament to step forward so we can expedite the process of delivering essential solutions for the nation, empower decision-making, and enhance efficiency in last-mile delivery,” concluded the Prime Minister.