PM Modi Encouraged India to Think Big, Transformed Business Climate

Industry leaders on Thursday highlighted reforms in taxation, infrastructure, manufacturing and the digital economy while reflecting on Prime Minister Narendra Modi's 25 years in public service as he turned 76.

Speaking to IANS, Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FICCI) Secretary General Anant Swarup said Modi's tenure had encouraged a larger focus on India's economic ambitions. He pointed to the Goods and Services Tax (GST) and infrastructure development as two areas that, in his view, have had a significant impact on businesses.

Industry points to GST and infrastructure changes

Swarup said the introduction of GST changed the way businesses operate across the country. According to him, the unified tax system contributed to the development of larger warehouses, simplified tax-related processes and helped reduce logistics costs.

He also highlighted the government's focus on infrastructure, including the development of ports, airports and highways. Swarup said these investments had supported industry and contributed to lower logistics costs.

The comments come as industry bodies continue to assess the impact of tax, infrastructure and other economic reforms introduced over the past decade. Recent industry assessments have also linked reforms in taxation, infrastructure and digital public infrastructure with changes in India's competitiveness and logistics costs.

Manufacturing, startups and digital ecosystem also highlighted

PHD Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PHDCCI) CEO and Secretary General Ranjeet Mehta said India had made progress in areas including the digital ecosystem, infrastructure, startups and youth-focused initiatives during Modi's time in office.

Mehta identified the Atmanirbhar Bharat initiative and its focus on domestic manufacturing as an important part of the government's economic agenda.

Vijay Kalantri, Chairman of World Trade Center Mumbai, said India's global standing had strengthened during Modi's leadership. He also pointed to welfare initiatives including Pradhan Mantri Jan Dhan Yojana and Beti Bachao, Beti Padhao, saying they had benefited people at the grassroots level.

The industry comments form part of wider assessments being made around Modi's 76th birthday and 25 years in public service. Other industry representatives have also highlighted GST, financial inclusion and digital payments while discussing the economic changes of the period.