India is not only a fast-growing economy, but also a credible one: PM

Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, today addressed the Republic Summit. Greeting the participants of the Summit, the Prime Minister congratulated the organisers for hosting a discussion on the theme “Great Power India: Nation First” at a time when the world is witnessing rapid and consequential developments.

Addressing the gathering, the Prime Minister underscored that the spirit of “Nation First” has been the guiding principle behind India’s achievements over the past decade and its emergence as a trusted global power. Shri Modi observed that India is a civilization with a long historical memory and a unique ability to draw lessons from both progress and adversity. He remarked that the decisions and actions being undertaken today are laying the foundation for the country’s future over the coming centuries.”The country has emerged not only as one of the world’s fastest-growing economies but also as a credible and reliable partner. India’s rise is founded on trust, stability and a commitment to the larger global good”, he noted.

Recalling his recent participation in the G7 Summit, the Prime Minister said that leaders across the world recognize India’s unwavering commitment to the principle of Nation First. He added that this guiding philosophy continues to shape the country’s policies, priorities and aspirations as it advances on the path of development.

Reflecting on the Government’s 12 years in service, the Prime Minister stated that major national initiatives such as Swachh Bharat, Make in India, promotion of khadi, and the campaign for local products succeeded because citizens embraced the spirit of putting the nation first. Highlighting the transformative impact of this approach in tribal and Left Wing Extremism-affected regions, the Prime Minister said, “The areas once plagued by violence and underdevelopment are witnessing unprecedented progress. More than 12,000 kilometres of roads, over 9,500 mobile towers, banking facilities, post offices, and communication networks have been established in affected regions over the last decade”.

Shri Modi observed that Maoist violence, which had claimed thousands of lives in previous decades, is now in its final phase due to a combination of determined security efforts and accelerated development. “The growing success of the Bastar Olympics as evidence of the aspirations and talents of youth replacing the fear and uncertainty once associated with the region”, he pointed.

Emphasizing the rise of an aspirational India, Shri Modi said the country has moved from an era of pessimism to one of confidence and opportunity. He remarked that the belief that “change is possible” has become one of India’s greatest strengths. “The Aspirational Districts and Aspirational Blocks Programme has transformed some of the country’s most underdeveloped regions into drivers of growth. These efforts have contributed significantly to improving living standards and expanding opportunities for millions of citizens”, Shri Modi highlighted..(UPDATED ON 22ND JUNE 2026)