Narendra Modi said none of his government’s budgets have ever been prepared as routine “bahi khata” (ledger) documents.
He said this year’s Budget is not a “now or never” moment created by pressure. Instead, it is a “we are ready” moment built on preparation and inspiration. According to him, it reflects India’s strong desire to become a developed nation.
In an exclusive interview with PTI, Modi said his government does not treat the Budget as an ordinary financial record. “That is not our approach,” he said.
He recalled that a few years ago, from the Red Fort, he had declared, “Yahi Samay Hai, Sahi Samay Hai” (Now is the right time). He said this sense of purpose has always guided his government.
“But today, that urgency has become a national belief and a shared mission across society. There is new confidence in the country,” he said.
Modi added that India has shown strength during many challenges. Even in tough global conditions, the country remains a bright spot for growth.
Budget 2026: A Step Toward Viksit Bharat 2047
When asked whether India is ready to enter the next phase of development toward the goal of Viksit Bharat by 2047—and whether this is a now-or-never moment—Modi said the post-pandemic world has created new opportunities for India.
He said many countries want to partner with India in trade and innovation.
“We have a young and increasingly skilled population. We are focused on strong growth, low inflation, and macroeconomic stability. Our youth are excelling in space, sports, and startups. We have ensured political stability and a reform-focused policy environment,” he said.
Because of these factors, he said people see this as a historic opportunity for India. He also mentioned the Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav, which strengthened the country’s sense of purpose and mission.
A Nation Ready, Not Pressured
Modi highlighted the changes in public behavior over the past few years. He said that building a developed nation is not only about infrastructure or economic growth. It also depends on social habits and responsible citizenship.
Whether it is cleanliness or other civic issues, people now understand their role in nation-building, he said.
“So, this is not a ‘now or never’ moment created by compulsion. It is a ‘we are ready’ moment built on preparation and inspiration. This Budget reflects our desire to become a developed nation,” Modi said.
He added that this should not be seen as just Budget 2026. Instead, it should be viewed as the first Budget of the second quarter of the 21st century.
Building on Gains Since 2014
According to Modi, this Budget strengthens the progress made since 2014 and builds momentum for the next 25 years.
He compared today’s decisions to those made in the 1920s, which later helped India achieve Independence in 1947. In the same way, he said, the steps taken now will lay the foundation for Viksit Bharat by 2047.
Repeating his earlier point, Modi said none of his government’s budgets have been simple ledger documents.
He noted that he has served as head of government for 25 years—first at the state level and now nationally. Over this period, he said his approach has never been fragmented.
“There is always a broad strategy, a clear action plan, and effective implementation. It reflects a whole-of-the-nation approach, continuity of purpose, and a long-term vision that moves forward step by step, year after year,” he said.
More Than Numbers: A Clear Roadmap
Since 2014, Modi said, people no longer see the Budget as just a list of numbers or announcements.
Each Budget, he explained, includes clear intent, a defined roadmap, and a sequence of actions with timelines. The focus then shifts to implementation. In the following Budget, the next logical step is taken.
Over the years, he said, his government has worked to fix structural gaps left by previous administrations. It has introduced major reforms, expanded opportunities for the poor, empowered youth, strengthened women’s participation, and ensured dignity and security for farmers.
At the same time, the government created an inclusive, technology-driven welfare system that remains human-centered. This system, he said, reaches the last mile and ensures that no one is left behind.
The Next Stage of Reform
Modi said nation-building has always been the main focus—strengthening the economy and laying the foundation for Viksit Bharat.
“This Budget marks the next stage of our journey. It adds speed to our reform process and prepares our youth for opportunities in a fast-changing world,” he said.
Also Read : India-UK Free Trade Deal: New Implementation Date Likely in April
