Prime Minister Narendra Modi, in an exclusive interview with PTI on Sunday, February 15, shared his perspective on India's economic trajectory and the ongoing 'Reform Express'. The Prime Minister emphasized that his nature prevents him from being completely satisfied with current achievements, as he believes there is always room for further improvement in public service. He described this mindset as a 'positive restlessness' that serves as a driving force for continuous development and systemic transformation across the nation.
The Philosophy of Positive Restlessness in Public Life
During the interview, Prime Minister Modi elaborated on the psychological drive behind his governance model. He stated that for anyone in public life, maintaining a sense of positive restlessness is essential to avoid stagnation. According to the Prime Minister, this internal motivation ensures that the government remains focused on the evolving needs of the citizens. He remarked that while the progress made under the 'Reform Express' is significant, his objective remains to push the boundaries of what can be achieved for the country's future.
Transition from Incremental Changes to Fundamental Reforms
Addressing the nature of reforms under his administration, PM Modi noted that the government has moved beyond minor adjustments to implement deep-seated structural changes. He expressed pride in the fact that India is now moving in a new direction through these comprehensive reforms, while the Prime Minister highlighted that these changes weren't merely cosmetic but were designed to overhaul the foundational systems of the economy and administration. He reiterated that reform is a commitment for his government, executed with full integrity to ensure long-term national growth.
Strengthening Global Partnerships and Economic Competitiveness
The Prime Minister discussed India's rapidly increasing global engagement, attributing it to a solid domestic economy and a competitive industrial sector. He stated that the recent surge in international trade partnerships is the result of a confident and proactive foreign policy, while according to PM Modi, India has transitioned from being a passive participant in global trade to a reliable and sought-after partner. He noted that this shift is underpinned by political stability and clear policy frameworks that have enhanced global confidence in the Indian market.
Record Achievements in Free Trade Agreements with 38 Nations
A significant highlight of the interview was the Prime Minister's mention of India's success in securing Free Trade Agreements (FTAs), while he informed that India has successfully concluded trade deals with 38 countries, describing it as a record-breaking achievement. PM Modi contrasted this with the previous UPA administration, noting that while trade talks were initiated in the past, they often languished for years without reaching a conclusion. He emphasized that the current government's ability to finalize these deals across different continents demonstrates India's growing economic clout and diplomatic efficiency.
Policy Stability and India as a Reliable Global Partner
Prime Minister Modi concluded by emphasizing the importance of policy consistency in attracting global investment. He stated that the world now views India as a dependable partner in the global supply chain, while the FTAs with 38 nations, ranging from major economic powers to emerging markets, provide Indian businesses with unprecedented access to diverse international markets. According to the Prime Minister, the combination of domestic structural reforms and strategic international trade policies has positioned India as a pillar of stability in the global economic landscape.