New Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi has used India’s latest economic growth figures to hit back at the political criticism surrounding his government, saying the country’s 7.8 per cent GDP expansion demonstrates the strength of its economy despite a difficult global environment.
Speaking from Kyrgyzstan, where he is attending the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation summit, Modi congratulated Indians after official data showed that the economy expanded 7.8 per cent during the April-June quarter.
The growth rate was stronger than economists had anticipated and came despite continued international uncertainty, disruptions to supply chains and heightened tensions in the Middle East. Modi said India’s performance reflected the determination and collective efforts of its citizens.
He also turned his attention to domestic political criticism, accusing those he described as pessimistic voices of spreading an “echo of lies” across the country.
The remark appeared to be a reference to the political controversy surrounding Congress leader Rahul Gandhi’s recent “Chhatron Ki Goonj” campaign. The BJP has previously used the phrase “Jhooth Ki Goonj” while challenging claims made by Gandhi at events associated with the Congress campaign.
According to the BJP’s assessment, a number of statements made by Gandhi were either factually incorrect or misleading. The Congress and Gandhi have continued to raise questions over the government’s policies and its handling of several political and economic issues.
Modi calls for focus on self-reliance
While celebrating the GDP figures, Modi also urged Indians to strengthen the domestic economy by giving greater preference to Indian products and destinations.
He reiterated his call for “Swadeshi” and “Vocal for Local”, encouraging citizens to spend their holidays within India and consider domestic locations for weddings and other major events. He also promoted the idea of “Wed in India” as part of a broader push to retain economic activity within the country.
Modi further urged people to be mindful of unnecessary purchases, including gold, arguing that greater emphasis on locally produced goods would support the broader goal of an “Atmanirbhar Bharat”, or self-reliant India.
Growth remains above expectations
The 7.8 per cent expansion in the first quarter of fiscal 2026-27 marked a moderation from the previous quarter’s 8.6 per cent growth. Even so, the latest figure remained significantly above the Reserve Bank of India’s earlier projection of 7 per cent for the quarter.
The result also reinforced India’s position among the fastest-growing major economies at a time when global markets continue to contend with geopolitical tensions, uncertain energy prices and disrupted trade routes.
Modi said the challenge now was to sustain the momentum rather than simply celebrate the latest number. He linked continued economic progress with greater domestic production and consumption, arguing that a stronger self-reliant economy would help India withstand future global shocks.
With the country approaching the centenary of its independence, the Prime Minister said the long-term objective should be to build a developed India that can be handed over to the next generation.
