‘Nation First’ guiding India's rise as trusted global power: PM Modi

23/06/2026

NEW DELHI, Jun 22: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday asserted that the principle of "Nation First" has been the driving force behind India's transformation over the past decade, saying the country has emerged as one of the world's fastest-growing economies and a trusted global partner.
Addressing the Republic Summit 2026 on the theme "Great Power India: Nation First", Modi said India's progress in governance, infrastructure, economic reforms and social welfare reflected the collective resolve of 140 crore citizens.
"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," the Prime Minister said.
Referring to his recent participation in the G7 Summit, Modi said world leaders acknowledged India's unwavering commitment to the principle of "Nation First" and regarded the country as a dependable global partner.
"Along with being a rising power, India is also a reliable power," he said.
Reviewing his government's 12 years in office, the Prime Minister said flagship initiatives such as Swachh Bharat, Make in India, promotion of khadi and campaigns encouraging the use of local products had succeeded because people embraced the idea of putting the nation first.
Highlighting the government's development initiatives in Left Wing Extremism-affected areas, Modi said more than 12,000 kilometres of roads, over 9,500 mobile towers, banking facilities and communication infrastructure had been created over the past decade.
"Maoist terror is breathing its last in India," he said, attributing the decline in violence to a combination of sustained security operations and accelerated development.
The Prime Minister said one of the country's greatest achievements had been the transformation of public mindset from pessimism to confidence.
"The shift in mindset from 'this can never be done' to 'this will be done' is India's greatest achievement," he said, adding that Aspirational Districts and Aspirational Blocks programmes had transformed some of the country's most underdeveloped regions.
Modi said nearly 25 crore people had moved out of poverty in recent years, resulting in the emergence of a large neo-middle class and creating new opportunities for economic and social mobility.
He also highlighted the government's efforts to revive stalled housing projects through the Rs. 25,000 crore Special Window for Affordable and Mid-Income Housing (SWAMIH) Fund, saying it had enabled thousands of homebuyers to receive possession of their homes.
On infrastructure, Modi said metro rail systems now carry more than one crore passengers daily, while Vande Bharat, Namo Bharat and Amrit Bharat trains have significantly improved rail connectivity. Expanded highways, roads and airports, he added, have strengthened mobility and boosted economic growth.
The Prime Minister said tax reforms and technology-driven systems such as online filing and faceless assessments had simplified compliance and enhanced transparency. He also highlighted the expansion of affordable healthcare through Jan Aushadhi Kendras and other welfare initiatives.
Emphasising the role of young Indians, entrepreneurs and start-ups, Modi said they were driving innovation and positioning the country to seize emerging global opportunities.
"The Government stands firmly with the people in this transformative journey. The country is firmly on the path of accelerated development and this momentum will continue to strengthen," he said.
Expressing confidence in India's future, Modi said the vision of a Viksit Bharat would be realised through the collective efforts of all citizens.
"The collective efforts of 140 crore Indians will realise the dream of a Viksit Bharat," he said.

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