Building a Resilient, Globally Respected, Self-Reliant India
Why in News?
Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership has ushered in a new era of governance and policy direction aimed at building a resilient, globally respected, and self-reliant India. From robust foreign policy to economic reforms and technological progress, India is charting a confident path on the world stage. 
Introduction
India’s trajectory under the leadership of PM Modi has seen decisive governance actions and strategic reforms. Initiatives such as Operation Sindoor demonstrated India’s operational strength and intent. In parallel, economic and social reforms are fostering growth and resilience.
Key Policy Highlights and Progress
1. Assertive Security and Foreign Policy
-
Operation Sindoor reflected India’s readiness to assert itself.
-
Since 2014, India has adopted a zero-tolerance stance towards terrorism, exemplified by the surgical strikes and Balakot airstrikes.
-
The government revoked Article 370, fully integrating Jammu and Kashmir.
-
India’s foreign policy is well-calibrated, balancing strong ties with Russia, Western powers, and West Asia, while prioritizing national interest.
2. Defence and National Security
-
Defence budget has nearly doubled since 2013-14.
-
Over 5,000 km of border roads have been constructed.
-
Agni missile series, Tejas, INS Vikrant, and other indigenous platforms signal progress in self-reliance.
3. Economic Reforms and Growth
-
From being the 11th largest economy, India is now the 5th largest.
-
GDP has expanded from ₹2.04 lakh crore in 2013-14 to a projected ₹4.3 lakh crore.
-
Inflation and current account deficit are under control.
-
Record foreign exchange reserves are providing economic stability.
4. Infrastructure Transformation
-
Infrastructure spending rose to ₹13.7 lakh crore in 2024-25 from ₹6.3 lakh crore in 2017-18.
-
The number of airports doubled from 74 to 157.
-
Metro networks have expanded threefold.
5. Technological and Digital Leadership
-
India is the world’s fastest-growing digital economy.
-
Over 93 crore people are connected digitally.
-
Initiatives like 5G, quantum computing, semiconductors, and AI are propelling India into the future.
Social Transformation and Inclusive Growth
1. Women’s Empowerment
-
More than 70 crore women have benefitted through initiatives such as PM Ujjwala Yojana, Mudra, and PM Awas Yojana.
-
33% reservation for women in Parliament and assemblies marks a new milestone.
2. Welfare Initiatives
-
Over 3 crore houses built under PMAY.
-
Nearly 100% electrification and 100% sanitation coverage achieved.
-
Subsidised ration provided to over 81 crore citizens through PM Garib Kalyan Anna Yojana.
3. Agricultural and Rural Prosperity
-
Record food grain production and export growth.
-
Fasal Bima Yojana protects farmers.
-
PM Kisan Samman Nidhi transfers direct benefits to farmers.
Conclusion
The transformative journey of India under PM Modi’s leadership is building a new India—resilient, globally respected, and self-reliant.
As India moves towards becoming the third largest economy by 2030, the nation’s focus on security, infrastructure, technology, and social justice will ensure an inclusive and sustainable future.
5 Questions & Answers
Q1: What is Operation Sindoor and what does it signify?
A: It was a military operation showcasing India’s operational capability and resolve to assert itself against terrorism.
Q2: How has India’s defence capacity improved since 2014?
A: Defence budget nearly doubled, over 5,000 km of border roads built, and indigenous platforms like Agni missiles, Tejas, and INS Vikrant developed.
Q3: What economic milestones has India achieved?
A: India became the 5th largest economy, doubled its GDP, maintained low inflation, and increased foreign exchange reserves.
Q4: How is India progressing in technology?
A: India is now the fastest-growing digital economy with over 93 crore digitally connected people and advancements in 5G, quantum computing, AI, and semiconductors.
Q5: What are the key achievements in women’s empowerment and welfare?
A: Over 70 crore women benefited from various schemes, 33% reservation in legislatures granted, 3 crore houses built, 100% electrification, and 81 crore citizens receiving subsidised rations.
