January 31, 2025: Prime Minister Narendra Modi, in his customary address ahead of the Budget session, made a sharp remark against the Opposition, stating that for the first time in a decade, no "foreign forces" had attempted to interfere in India's affairs before the session.

"You must have noticed, since 2014, this is probably the first Parliament session which saw no 'videshi chingari' (foreign interference). No foreign forces tried to ignite a fire. I had noticed this before every Budget session, and many within the country have left no stone unturned to fan these sparks," PM Modi said.

The Prime Minister also emphasized that the Union Budget would serve as a roadmap for achieving a 'Viksit Bharat' (Developed India) by 2047. He highlighted "innovation, inclusion, and investment" as the government's key priorities while underlining 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, we will fulfill our goal of 'Viksit Bharat'," he assured.

Additionally, PM Modi stressed that women empowerment and Nari Shakti (women's strength) would be at the core of the upcoming policies. "Reform, perform, and transform will be our second area of focus," he added.

The Budget session, which begins today, is expected to lay down significant economic and social measures to shape India's future growth trajectory.