PM Modi Targets Opposition, Says No 'Foreign Interference' Before Budget Session For First Time Since 2014

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday (31 January) took a swipe at the Opposition, stating that for the first time in a decade, there were no attempts by "foreign forces" to create unrest ahead of a Parliament session.

"You must have noticed, since 2014, this is probably the first Parliament session, which saw no 'videshi chingari' (foreign interference) in our affairs, in which no foreign forces tried to ignite a fire. I had noticed this before every budget session. And many in our country leave no stone unturned to fan these sparks," PM Modi said in his customary address ahead of the Budget session, which began today (31 January), India Today reported.

PM Modi emphasised that the Union Budget would lay the foundation for ‘Viksit Bharat’—a fully developed India by 2047.

He highlighted "innovation, inclusion, and investment" as the government's central priorities.

The Prime Minister assured that the Budget would place a significant focus on youth and women.

"This is the first complete budget of my third term. I can confidently say that in 2047, when India completes 100 years of Independence, India will fulfil its aim of 'Viksit Bharat'," he stated.

"In particular, Nari Shakti and women empowerment will be the centre of focus. Reform, perform, and transform will be our second area of focus," PM Modi added.

Invoking Goddess Lakshmi, PM Modi said he would pray that the goddess of prosperity would continue to bless the poor and middle-class of the country.

"I pray that Maa Lakshmi continues to bless the poor and middle class of our country. It is a matter of great pride that India completed 75 years as a democratic nation. India has established itself well on the global pedestal," he said.

PM Modi added that the Budget would give new energy and hope to the nation.

Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman is set to present the Economic Survey today, followed by the Union Budget on Saturday in Parliament. This marks her eighth consecutive Budget speech.

The Budget session will take place in two phases, with the first running from 31 January to 13 February and the second from 10 March to 4 April.

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