Prime Minister Narendra Modi, during a post-budget webinar on March 3, 2026, urged Indian industry leaders to ramp up investments and prioritize research to harness the vast opportunities available through the country's free trade agreements (FTAs) with several nations. Modi emphasized that India must focus on "Quality, Quality, Quality," as the country steps into a new phase of economic growth driven by global trade partnerships.

India's numerous FTAs have unlocked new avenues for growth, and the Prime Minister pointed out that the days of cutting corners in research and development are over. He stressed the need for substantial investments in R&D and for Indian products to meet global quality standards. With the world looking for resilient manufacturing partners, Modi highlighted India’s unique opportunity to step into that role, provided quality remains a priority.

Modi also noted that a major transformation is underway in the global economy, where cost is no longer the sole focus. Sustainability has become a critical factor, and industries that invest early in clean technologies, such as carbon capture and storage, will have better access to emerging markets in the coming years.

In his address, Modi underscored the importance of infrastructure and logistics as essential elements of India’s growth strategy. He welcomed the record level of capital expenditure proposed in the budget for these sectors, which he said would help propel India towards becoming a global economic powerhouse.

The Prime Minister concluded by reaffirming India’s vision of Viksit Bharat, highlighting the importance of rapid economic development in realizing this goal. With the world now focused on resilient supply chains and sustainable development, India is poised to play a central role in the future global economy.