New Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday declared the recently signed free trade agreement (FTA) between India and the European Union as a "historic global gamechanger" that will unlock countless opportunities for lakhs of Indian youth. Addressing the annual National Cadet Corps PM Rally at Delhi Cantt, the Prime Minister emphasized that this landmark pact with 27 European nations represents a transformative moment for India's economic future.
A New Era of Trust and Opportunity
PM Modi stated that the entire world is looking at India's youth with immense trust, attributing this confidence to their unique blend of "skill and 'sanskar' (culture)." He highlighted how this comprehensive agreement will particularly benefit Indian startups by facilitating easier access to European funding and innovation ecosystems, while simultaneously boosting India's creative economy across multiple domains including film, gaming, fashion, digital content, music, and design.
Comprehensive Economic Benefits
The Prime Minister detailed how the FTA will create substantial new opportunities for Indian youth in research, education, information technology, and professional services. He underscored that this agreement will significantly accelerate the Atmanirbhar Bharat campaign while strengthening the resolve behind "Make in India, Make for the World" initiative.
Modi explained that under this agreement, tariffs on more than 99% of India's exports will either be eliminated or substantially reduced, providing major benefits to key industries including textiles, leather, gems and jewellery, footwear, engineering goods, and micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs).
Investment and Market Access Expansion
The Prime Minister projected that the FTA will attract substantial new investment into India, leading to the establishment of new manufacturing plants across sectors such as engineering, electronics, chemicals, and pharmaceuticals. He emphasized that the agreement will create assured markets for agriculture, food processing, and fisheries, presenting significant opportunities for farmers, fishermen, and rural youth across the country.
Direct Connection to European Job Markets
PM Modi highlighted that this FTA directly connects India's youth to Europe's job market, creating specialized opportunities in engineering, green technology, design, logistics, and advanced manufacturing. He emphasized that new avenues are opening for Indian professionals across all 27 European Union countries, marking a significant expansion of India's global economic footprint.
"Before this EU FTA, India has successfully negotiated trade agreements with Oman, New Zealand, Britain, the UAE, Australia, and countries like Mauritius," Modi recalled. "I had addressed from the Red Fort that 'Yahi samay hai, sahi samay hai' (this is the time, this is the right time). For the country's youth, it is a time for maximum opportunities."
The Prime Minister added, "This is not just a trade agreement. This is a new blueprint for shared prosperity between India and Europe."
Moment of Sorrow and Tribute
In a somber note, Prime Minister Modi expressed profound grief over the tragic plane crash in Maharashtra earlier in the day, which claimed the lives of Deputy Chief Minister Shri Ajit Pawar and several colleagues. He highlighted that "Ajit Dada made a significant contribution to the development of Maharashtra and the nation, especially through his dedicated work to improve village life."
The Prime Minister extended heartfelt condolences to Shri Ajit Pawar's family and emphasized that in this moment of profound pain, the entire nation stands in solidarity with the families of all those lost in the tragic accident.
National Security and Youth Empowerment
Lauding the impressive tableau presented during Operation Sindoor, Prime Minister Modi appreciated the exceptional efforts of NCC cadets during that critical period for national security. He noted their valuable contributions in supporting the armed forces, organizing blood donation camps, and providing essential first-aid services across the country.
Emphasizing that Operation Sindoor reaffirmed India's military strength and the valour of its armed forces, Modi stated that it also demonstrated significant advancements in indigenous weapons development. He stressed that in modern warfare, the role of youth skills has increased dramatically, as contemporary battles are fought not only with traditional weapons but also through technological domains like coding and cloud computing.
Technology as National Security Imperative
The Prime Minister warned that nations lagging in technological advancement become vulnerable not only economically but also in terms of national security. He emphasized that innovation driven by youth strengthens patriotism while making crucial contributions to national security preparedness.
A New Tradition for Democratic Engagement
PM Modi proposed establishing a new tradition in the country, suggesting that the National Cadet Corps (NCC), National Service Scheme (NSS), and My Young India organization collaborate to hold a grand event every January 25th to honor first-time voters. He expressed confidence that this initiative would strengthen the sense of responsibility among youth while reinforcing the foundations of Indian democracy.
The Prime Minister's comprehensive address highlighted how the India-EU FTA represents a strategic milestone that combines economic opportunity with national development, while acknowledging both achievements and challenges facing the nation.
