Amid rising concerns about US tariffs, Prime Minister Narendra Modi emphasized that technology will be a key strength for India’s future. Speaking at the inauguration of a new metro rail line in Bengaluru, PM Modi highlighted how Indian tech companies have made a global impact by developing software and products. However, he called for a shift towards prioritizing India’s own needs by accelerating indigenous product development, especially in sectors increasingly dependent on software and apps.
The Prime Minister’s address comes in the wake of US President Donald Trump imposing a 50 percent tariff on India. Modi urged Indian companies to lead by manufacturing products that adhere to the ‘Zero Defect, Zero Effect’ standard—signifying flawless quality without environmental harm.
Modi also spotlighted the power of technology in national security, citing Operation Sindoor’s success in neutralizing terrorist hideouts as a testament to India’s technological prowess, with Bengaluru playing a vital role. This operation’s results showed Pakistan forced to surrender swiftly when confronted with India’s advanced capabilities.
Speaking alongside influential industry leaders like Infosys founders NR Narayana Murthy and S Gopalakrishnan, Biocon’s Kiran Mazumdar-Shaw, and Infosys CEO Salil Parekh, Modi reaffirmed India’s trajectory as the world’s fastest-growing major economy, aiming for global AI leadership through initiatives such as the India AI Mission and Semiconductor Mission. He announced the imminent arrival of Made-in-India semiconductor chips, with Bengaluru at the forefront of this innovation.
Highlighting inclusive growth, Modi noted that technology’s advancement has helped uplift the poor, and India has risen in global economic rankings—from tenth place to fifth in 11 years—poised to join the top three economies.
In summary, PM Modi envisions technology as a powerful driver for India to bolster self-reliance, navigate trade challenges, and secure its place as a global leader in innovation and economic strength.
