Prime Minister Narendra Modi said Indian self-reliance has reached an unprecedented level of strength during his 12-year tenure [1].
The statement underscores the government's focus on Atmanirbhar Bharat, a policy aimed at reducing foreign dependency and boosting domestic manufacturing. By framing these achievements against the tenure of previous administrations, Modi is positioning his economic strategy as a corrective measure for national development.
Speaking in the Rajya Sabha in New Delhi during the 2026 Parliament Budget Session, Modi addressed the chamber in February 2026 [1]. He said that his time in office, which began in May 2014 [1], has provided a new lease of life to the concept of a self-reliant India.
"In the last twelve years, we have given a new lease of life to Atmanirbhar Bharat – Indian self‑reliance has never been stronger," Modi said [1].
Modi used the session to contrast his government's trajectory with that of the political opposition. He said that the opposition has no planning and no vision, adding that his administration is correcting their mistakes to build the nation [1].
Beyond policy achievements, the Prime Minister's tenure has reached a historic milestone. Modi has become the longest-serving elected Prime Minister of India, surpassing the 4,398-day tenure of Jawaharlal Nehru [2].
This milestone coincides with the government's continued push for industrial autonomy. The budget session serves as a primary venue for the administration to outline its fiscal priorities, and defend its long-term economic vision before the upper house of Parliament.
“"Indian self‑reliance has never been stronger."”
The emphasis on Atmanirbhar Bharat during this session signals a strategic effort to link the Prime Minister's personal record-breaking tenure with the structural economic shift toward domestic production. By contrasting his 12-year record with the 'lack of vision' from the opposition, the administration is attempting to solidify its mandate as the sole architect of India's modern industrial autonomy.
