Mumbai, 02 November (H.S.): Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman on Monday urged citizens, business leaders and intellectuals to speak about India's economic growth with confidence and optimism, asserting that there were no signs of weakness or fragility in the fundamental pillars of the Indian economy.

Sitharaman made the remarks while addressing an event organised by HSBC during her day-long visit to Mumbai. She emphasised that the Indian economy remained fundamentally strong, with its key economic foundations showing no signs of vulnerability.

The Finance Minister appealed to citizens, corporate leaders and thought leaders to communicate the country's economic progress and growth prospects with confidence and positivity. She reiterated that India's core economic fundamentals remained robust and that there was no indication of any underlying weakness.

Sitharaman said that ‘Insurance for All’ would remain a key priority under the government's financial inclusion agenda. The Centre is particularly looking at expanding access to insurance and pension schemes among the poorest sections of society to ensure that the benefits of financial security reach those most in need.

She also highlighted wider access to credit as an important government priority. In addition, the government plans to establish artificial intelligence (AI) training centres in every district to bridge the gap between the requirements of industry and the skills possessed by young people.

Citing strong Goods and Services Tax (GST) collections and the improved financial position of the country's banking sector, Sitharaman said the fundamental pillars supporting India's economic well-being were functioning effectively.

Reiterating her appeal, the Finance Minister urged citizens to speak about India's economic growth with conviction and optimism, saying that confidence in the country's economic strengths was essential.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar