Delhi, 8 September (H.S.): Union Minister of Commerce and Industry Piyush Goyal, while addressing the 56th EEPC India National Awards in New Delhi, declared that India’s unity, resilience, and commitment to swadeshi and Atmanirbhar Bharat will ensure the nation overcomes global challenges and emerges as a leading economic force.

He emphasised the importance of producing and embracing indigenously made goods, noting that reliance on imports exposes businesses to vulnerabilities such as export restrictions or supply disruptions. India, he urged, must turn this challenge into an opportunity by strengthening its domestic capacity and fostering innovation. Echoing the Prime Minister’s recent call from the Red Fort, Shri Goyal appealed to industry and citizens alike to rally behind Made in India products.

President Droupadi Murmu graced the occasion as Chief Guest, underscoring the pivotal role of engineering exports in advancing India’s global standing and fortifying the economy.

Highlighting India’s economic journey, Goyal recalled the growth of engineering exports from just USD 10 million in 1955 to USD 116 billion today, crediting the MSME and trade sectors as the backbone of national progress. He reaffirmed India’s commitment to the mantra of “Zero Defect, Zero Effect,” calling on businesses to ensure quality, sustainability, and competitiveness in global markets.

Recognising India as a trusted global partner, Goyal underlined its top-three global ranking in sustainability efforts and reaffirmed the country’s resolve to remain a responsible steward of the environment in line with its Paris Agreement commitments.

Commending Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership, the Minister noted India’s rise from the “fragile five” to the world’s top five economies, with four consecutive years as the fastest-growing major economy. He pointed to the recent 7.8% GDP growth as evidence of India’s robust economic foundations.

On fiscal reforms, Goyal stated that GST reductions and simplifications are boosting domestic demand, creating fresh employment opportunities, increasing incomes, and strengthening consumer confidence. He stressed that the benefits of such reforms must be equitably passed on to consumers to ensure inclusive and broad-based growth.

Closing his address, Goyal said that by working together as a united national family and building on the strength of its people, India will become not only a global economic power but also a model for sustainable and inclusive development.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar