Economy – India Maintains Strong Growth Momentum Amid Global Challenges
Economy – Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday highlighted India’s robust economic performance, saying that the country’s 7.7 percent GDP growth in the financial year 2025-26 reflects the resilience and strength of its economic framework. He stated that despite ongoing international uncertainties, India has continued to progress steadily due to the collective contribution of its 1.4 billion citizens.
Addressing a public gathering in Daman, where he inaugurated several major development initiatives and unveiled projects valued at approximately Rs 2,970 crore, the Prime Minister expressed satisfaction over the latest economic figures. He noted that India continues to hold its position as the world’s fastest-growing major economy, with the January-March quarter recording growth of 7.8 percent.
Global Uncertainty Fails to Slow India’s Progress
Speaking about current international developments, Modi pointed to geopolitical tensions and disruptions in West Asia that have impacted global energy supply chains. Despite these challenges, he said India has successfully maintained economic stability and growth.
According to the Prime Minister, ongoing reforms, expanding infrastructure networks, and extensive welfare measures aimed at improving the lives of citizens have played a significant role in sustaining economic momentum. He reiterated that India remains committed to advancing through a combination of policy reforms, effective governance, and long-term development planning.
Focus on Inclusive and Sustainable Development
Modi emphasized that economic growth alone is not enough and that development must also be sustainable and inclusive. He stated that the government’s primary measure of progress is the improvement in living standards among economically weaker sections, tribal communities, and the middle class.
Healthcare, he said, continues to be one of the government’s key priorities. Highlighting progress in public health, he noted that the rate of full immunization among children has increased significantly over the past decade, rising from around 60 percent before 2014 to nearly 90 percent today.
He also pointed to improvements in maternal healthcare, stating that more than 90 percent of deliveries now take place in medical institutions, contributing to better health outcomes for mothers and newborns across the country.
Development Vision for Daman and Diu Region
The Prime Minister described the Union Territory of Dadra and Nagar Haveli and Daman and Diu as an important part of India’s cultural and historical identity. He said the government is placing special emphasis on accelerating development in the region.
Modi stated that the territory has the potential to emerge as a globally competitive destination. He said projects such as the NAMO Airport terminal, a major bridge across the Damanganga River, and a new convention centre are expected to strengthen economic activity and improve connectivity.
He further noted that opportunities linked to the hospitality sector and marine-based industries are expected to expand as high-technology infrastructure projects are completed under the region’s blue economy strategy.
Education and Workforce Development Receive Attention
The Prime Minister also highlighted efforts to strengthen education and skill development. He said initiatives are being implemented to encourage higher participation of girls in education while expanding access to professional and technical institutions.
According to Modi, investments in sectors such as engineering, law, healthcare, information technology, drone technology, renewable energy, and design education will help create a highly skilled workforce capable of meeting future industry demands.
Tourism Emerging as a Major Growth Driver
Tourism remains another important focus area, Modi said, adding that the government is actively promoting heritage tourism, eco-tourism, beach tourism, and adventure tourism across the country.
He noted that Dadra and Nagar Haveli and Daman and Diu possess significant tourism potential and have witnessed a substantial increase in visitor numbers over recent years. Improved infrastructure and connectivity are expected to further support growth in the sector.
The projects inaugurated during the visit include the new terminal building at NAMO Airport, NAMO Hospital, the convention centre, the iconic bridge, and the National Institute of Fashion Technology (NIFT) campus in Daman. Additionally, foundation stones were laid for projects worth Rs 885 crore in Lakshadweep, including port development works on Kalpeni and Kadmat islands aimed at enhancing maritime infrastructure.