Budget Session 2026: PM Modi Says ‘Reform, Perform, Transform’ Will Drive India’s Growth

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday outlined the government’s reform-driven vision as the Budget Session 2026 of Parliament commenced in New Delhi. Addressing the media ahead of the session, the Prime Minister said the guiding mantra of the government remains “reform, perform, transform” as India enters a decisive phase of its development journey.

He linked the Budget Session and the years ahead to India’s long-term ambition of becoming a developed nation by 2047, coinciding with the 100th year of Independence.

President’s Address Reflects Aspirations of 140 Crore Indians

Referring to the President’s address delivered a day earlier, PM Modi said it captured the confidence, capability and aspirations of the people of India, especially the youth.

"The President's address yesterday was the expression of the trust of 140 crore Indians, an account of their capability and of the sketch of their aspirations, especially of the youth. For all MPs, the President also said several things to guide them. At the beginning of the session and 2026, the expectations expressed by the President -- I am confident that all MPs took this seriously."

According to the Prime Minister, the address set a clear roadmap and expectations for lawmakers at the start of the new parliamentary session and the new year.

India Enters the Second Quarter of the 21st Century

PM Modi highlighted that India has already completed 25 years of the 21st century and is now entering a crucial phase that will shape the country’s future.

"A quarter of the 21st century has already passed, and the second quarter is beginning. These next 25 years are a crucial period to achieve the goal of a developed India by 2047. This is the first Budget of the second quarter of this century."

He emphasised that decisions taken during this period will have a lasting impact on India’s economic strength, global standing and opportunities for the youth.

Historic Moment: Nirmala Sitharaman’s Ninth Consecutive Budget

The Prime Minister also underlined the significance of the upcoming Union Budget presentation by Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman.

"Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman is the country’s first woman Finance Minister who is presenting the Budget in Parliament for the ninth consecutive time. This, in itself, marks a proud moment in the parliamentary history of India."

Union Finance Minister Sitharaman is scheduled to table the Union Budget for 2026-27 in the Lok Sabha on February 1 at 11 am.

‘Confident India’ Sets a Positive Tone

PM Modi said the Budget Session had begun on an optimistic note, projecting India as a confident and forward-looking nation.

"Confident India today has become a beacon of hope for the world and a centre of attraction globally."

He added that India’s progress and reform momentum are drawing global attention amid shifting economic and geopolitical dynamics.

Focus on Long-Term Reforms and Structural Solutions

Reiterating the government’s reform agenda, PM Modi said the focus is on addressing deep-rooted and long-pending issues rather than temporary fixes.

"Our government has been focusing on reform, perform, transform. Now, we have swiftly taken off on 'Reform Express'. I express gratitude to all MPs for their positive contributions in speeding up this 'Reform Express'. As a result, 'Reform Express' is gaining speed."

He further noted:

"Nation is coming out of long-term pending problems and working towards long-term solutions."

According to the Prime Minister, legislative support from Parliament has played a key role in accelerating reforms.

India-EU Free Trade Agreement Signals Future Growth

PM Modi pointed to the India-European Union Free Trade Agreement (FTA) as an early indicator of India’s growth direction in the coming years.

"At the very beginning of this quarter, the India-European Union Free Trade Agreement reflects how bright the coming direction is and how promising the future of India's youth is. This is free trade for an ambitious India, for aspirational youth, and for a self-reliant India."

Addressing Indian manufacturers and businesses, he said the agreement opens access to a major global market.

"A new market has opened up, which offers quality products to 27 EU member nations."

The FTA is expected to create new export opportunities, boost manufacturing, and strengthen India’s integration into global supply chains.

Budget Session 2026 Sets the Roadmap Ahead

With the Union Budget 2026-27 set to be presented, the Budget Session is expected to focus on economic growth, fiscal consolidation, infrastructure, manufacturing, employment generation, and long-term reforms aligned with the Developed India 2047 vision.

The session marks a key milestone as India steps into the second quarter of the 21st century with renewed emphasis on reform-led development and global competitiveness.