During his maiden visit to Sri Lanka, Indian Defence Minister Rajnath Singh interacted with the Indian diaspora and discussed India's economic growth and bilateral relations.
Indian Defence Minister Raksha Mantri Shri Rajnath Singh began his maiden visit to neighbouring Sri Lanka on September 08, 2026, with an interaction with the Indian diaspora in Colombo. He emphasized India's commitment to standing with Sri Lanka whenever it faces a crisis due to the shared cultural and civilisational ties between the two nations.
In his address, Rajnath Singh highlighted India’s rapid economic transformation. He stated that the country is among the fastest-growing major economies in the world, contributing more than 16% to global growth. The Indian economy, which stood at USD 2 trillion in 2014, has doubled to approximately USD 4 trillion over the last decade.
The Minister pointed out that the value of India’s goods and services exports has increased from Rs 45 lakh crore in 2014 to Rs 79 lakh crore in FY 2025-26. He also underlined the remarkable expansion in electronics and mobile phone manufacturing, with electronic goods production rising from Rs 1.9 lakh crore to over Rs 11 lakh crore.
Rajnath Singh credited Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi for the significant rise in India’s global credibility and stature. He said that compared to 12 years ago, the world today listens when India speaks on the international stage.
In addition, the Defence Minister highlighted the expansion of India's defence sector, stating that the defence budget has risen from approx. Rs 2 lakh crore in FY 2013-14 to Rs 7.25 lakh crore in FY 2025-26.
Rajnath Singh also pointed out the growth of India's start-up ecosystem, which today ranks third globally, and the impact of significant reforms in taxation like the introduction of GST and tax relief measures.
Source:
Press Information Bureau
