India Tajikistan Relations / India Aspires to Blend Prosperity, Strength and Global Well-being: Rajnath Singh

Dushanbe, Oct 20: Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Tuesday said India is steadily progressing towards becoming a nation that combines economic prosperity, knowledge and strategic strength while remaining committed to global peace and the welfare of humanity, driven by the philosophy of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam.

Addressing members of the Indian diaspora in Dushanbe, Tajikistan, Singh highlighted India's rapid economic growth, governance reforms, technological advancements and expanding global influence under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

Economic Growth

Singh noted that India currently contributes over 16 per cent to global economic growth and is expanding at an estimated rate of nearly 7.8 per cent despite economic slowdowns in several major countries. He said India has signed Free Trade Agreements with 38 countries, creating new opportunities for exporters and manufacturers.

The Defence Minister also pointed to improvements in macroeconomic indicators, stating that India’s foreign exchange reserves have crossed USD 700 billion, while the current account deficit has declined significantly over the past decade.

Reforms and Innovation

Describing the last decade as a period of transformative governance, Mr. Singh said India had moved from “policy paralysis” to a “reform express”. He underlined the growth of India’s start-up ecosystem, which now comprises over 2.5 lakh start-ups, with many emerging from smaller cities and towns.

He also highlighted the country’s rising defence capabilities, noting that defence exports have reached a record Rs38,424 crore and defence production has climbed to Rs1.80 lakh crore.

Digital and Green Transformation

Emphasising India's digital progress, Mr. Singh said the value of UPI transactions had surged to Rs314 lakh crore in 2025-26, reflecting the country's shift towards a seamless digital economy. He further noted that renewable energy capacity has increased from around 75 GW in 2014 to nearly 300 GW.

Referring to India's ambitions in advanced technology sectors, he said the country was making significant strides in semiconductor manufacturing and strengthening its position in strategic industries.
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India-Tajikistan Ties 

Singh described India as a confident nation with which countries across the world seek stronger partnerships. He praised the Indian diaspora for serving as cultural ambassadors and strengthening people-to-people ties.

Highlighting the enduring friendship between India and Tajikistan, he noted the popularity of Indian culture among Tajik citizens and felicitated noted Indologist Prof. Habibullo Rajabov, the first Padma Shri awardee from Tajikistan, for his contributions to Hindi literature and education.