Prime Minister Narendra Modi has welcomed India’s 7.8 per cent economic growth in the April-June quarter, saying the figures reflect the collective strength, resolve and hard work of the people despite continuing global uncertainty.
Speaking from Kyrgyzstan, where he is attending the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) Summit, Modi congratulated citizens and said India must maintain the pace of economic growth.
India grows despite global challenges
India’s GDP grew 7.8 per cent in the first quarter of fiscal 2027, according to data released on Monday. Although growth was lower than the 8.6 per cent recorded in the previous quarter, it was higher than the Reserve Bank of India’s forecast of 7 per cent.
Modi said the performance was significant as the world continues to face wars, economic uncertainty and disrupted supply chains.
He pointed to the instability seen since the Covid-19 pandemic and said India had continued to move forward despite the challenges.
Modi takes swipe at critics
While praising the economic performance, Modi also criticised those spreading what he described as an “echo of lies” in the country.
He said the latest GDP figures had cut through such criticism and demonstrated India’s continued progress.
The remark comes amid a political exchange involving Rahul Gandhi’s ‘Chhatron Ki Goonj’ campaign and criticism from the political satirical group ‘Jhooth Ki Goonj’. The BJP has also used the phrase while challenging statements made by Gandhi during campaign-related events.
PM pushes ‘Vocal for Local’
Modi also urged citizens to strengthen the vision of an Atmanirbhar Bharat by embracing ‘Swadeshi’ and ‘Vocal for Local’.
He encouraged people to choose Indian destinations for holidays and weddings, promoting the idea of “wed in India”. He also called for avoiding unnecessary purchases and placing greater emphasis on Indian products.
Modi expressed confidence that maintaining the current growth momentum and encouraging self-reliance would help India move towards becoming a developed nation by the time it completes 100 years of independence.