Defence Minister Rajnath Singh has begun his first official visit to Sri Lanka on September 08, 2026, delivering a message of steadfast support to the island nation. Speaking to the Indian diaspora in Colombo, he reaffirmed India’s commitment to stand by Sri Lanka during times of difficulty. The visit underscores the deep cultural and civilisational bonds shared between the two neighbouring countries.
What was announced
The Defence Minister used the occasion to highlight India’s economic progress over the past 12 years. India’s economy has grown from USD 2 trillion in 2014 to approximately USD 4 trillion today. In the first quarter of FY 2026-27, the economy expanded at 7.8% despite global challenges. Average inflation has been controlled at approximately 4.7% compared to 10-11% in the period before 2014.
Key manufacturing achievements include:
- Electronic goods production rose from Rs 1.9 lakh crore to over Rs 11 lakh crore, with exports increasing 700%
- India is now the world’s second-largest mobile phone manufacturer, with units growing from 2 in 2014 to over 300 today
- Mobile manufacturing jumped from Rs 18,000 crore to Rs 5.5 lakh crore
- Automobile exports increased from Rs 50,000 crore to Rs 1.20 lakh crore annually
India has signed trade agreements with 38 countries in the last 12 years, including Free Trade Agreements with 8 major nations, compared to 4 previously. Defence equipment exports have surged from Rs 600 crore to approximately Rs 39,000 crore. The defence budget has grown from Rs 2 lakh crore in FY 2013-14 to Rs 7.25 lakh crore in FY 2025-26.
On social welfare, approximately 25 crore Indians have been lifted out of poverty. Social security coverage expanded from 25 crore citizens in 2014 to approximately 95 crore Indians today. Through Direct Benefit Transfer mechanisms, Rs 51 lakh crore has been transferred directly to citizens’ bank accounts.
What this means for you
This visit signals India’s commitment to regional stability and cooperation with neighbouring countries. The emphasis on India’s economic strength and manufacturing capabilities demonstrates the country’s growing role in regional and global affairs. For citizens, the statistics highlight how national growth translates into expanded welfare coverage, improved infrastructure including railway electrification and broadband expansion, and more direct access to government benefits through digital systems like UPI and Direct Benefit Transfer.