Latest News: Indian share markets will be open for trading on Sunday, February 01, as the Union Budget is being presented on that day * Key Highlights of Economic Survey 2025–26: GDP & GVA Growth Estimates for FY 2026: First advance estimates at 7.4% and 7.3% respectively * India’s Core Growth Projection: Around 7%, with real GDP growth for FY 2027 expected between 6.8% and 7.2% * Central Government Revenue: Rose to 11.6% of GDP in FY 2025 * Non-Performing Assets: Declined to a multi-decade low of 2.2% * PMJDY Accounts: Over 552 million bank accounts opened by March 2025; 366 million in rural and semi-urban areas * Investor Base: Surpassed 120 million by September 2025, with women comprising ~25% * Global Trade Share: India’s export share doubled from 1% in 2005 to 1.8% in 2024 * Services Export: Reached an all-time high of $387.6 billion in FY 2025, up 13.6% * Global Deposits: India became the largest recipient in FY 2025 with $135.4 billion * Foreign Exchange Reserves: Hit $701.4 billion on January 16, 2026—covering 11 months of imports and 94% of external debt * Inflation: Averaged 1.7% from April to December 2025 * Foodgrain Production: Reached 357.73 million metric tons in 2024–25, up 25.43 MMT from the previous year * PM-Kisan Scheme: Over ₹4.09 lakh crore disbursed to eligible farmers since inception * Rural Employment Alignment: “Viksit Bharat – Jee Ram Ji” initiative launched to replace MGNREGA in the vision for a developed India by 2047 * Manufacturing Growth: 7.72% in Q1 and 9.13% in Q2 of FY 2026 * PLI Scheme Impact: ₹2 lakh crore in actual investment across 14 sectors; production and sales exceeded ₹18.7 lakh crore; over 1.26 million jobs created by September 2025 * Semiconductor Mission: Domestic capacity boosted with ₹1.6 lakh crore invested across 10 projects * Railway High-Speed Corridor: Expanded from 550 km in FY 2014 to 5,364 km; 3,500 km added in FY 2026 * Civil Aviation: India became the third-largest domestic air travel market; airports increased from 74 in 2014 to 164 in 2025 * DISCOMs Turnaround: Recorded first-ever positive PAT of ₹20,701 crore in FY 2025 * Renewable Energy: India ranked third globally in total renewable and installed solar capacity * Satellite Docking: India became the fourth country to achieve autonomous satellite docking capability * School Enrollment Ratios: Primary – 90.9%, Upper Primary – 90.3%, Secondary – 78.7% * Higher Education Expansion: India now has 23 IITs, 21 IIMs, and 20 AIIMS; international IIT campuses established in Zanzibar and Abu Dhabi * Maternal & Infant Mortality: Declined since 1990, now below global average * E-Shram Portal: Over 310 million unorganised workers registered by January 2026; 54% are women * National Career Service Portal: Job vacancies exceeded 28 million in FY 2025 and crossed 23 million by September 2026

India's Democratic Resilience: A beacon of hope…


India's democracy stands tall globally, renowned for its resilience and dynamism. A robust written constitution, clear separation of powers, and a free press have fostered a culture of democratic governance. The country's commitment to democratic principles has enabled it to navigate challenges and grow as a democratic welfare state.

To reinforce democracy's foundation, planned programmes across India aim to involve, sensitise, and educate citizens in democratic values. Democracy transcends voting; it demands active participation, understanding rights and responsibilities, and holding the government accountable. By promoting inclusivity and awareness, these initiatives empower citizens to contribute to the democratic process.

While India's democracy is robust, it is not flawless. As a young republic, India has faced challenges in ensuring equal representation, addressing corruption, and income disparities, as well as an irritating VIP culture. However, India's ability to learn from past mistakes and strive towards a more inclusive society sets it apart.

In contrast to authoritarian regimes, India's democracy provides a platform for diverse voices to be heard and respected. Freedom of expression and the right to dissent are integral to India's democratic ethos. A vibrant civil society, independent media, and active citizenry foster accountability and transparency in governance.

We must reflect on upholding democratic values and institutions. Democracies require constant nurturing, dialogue, and participation to remain resilient. India's democratic journey demonstrates the power of collective action and unity in diversity.

Let us recommit to safeguarding democracy, promoting civic engagement, and building a more equitable society. India's thriving democracy inspires nations worldwide, reminding us of democratic ideals' enduring power in shaping a brighter future.