Fri Jan 31 04:00:00 UTC 2025: ## Modi Claims Absence of Foreign Interference Ahead of Smooth Budget Session
**New Delhi:** Prime Minister Narendra Modi today lauded the peaceful start to the Budget Session, claiming it marks the first time since 2014 that foreign interference has not attempted to disrupt parliamentary proceedings. Addressing his party MPs before the session began, Modi quipped that previous sessions had been marred by “mischief” orchestrated by those seeking to inflame tensions, often with alleged foreign involvement. He specifically alluded to recent disruptions linked to allegations made by the now-defunct US-based short-seller Hindenburg.
The Prime Minister highlighted the significance of a calm start to the session, stating that this year, unlike previous years, no “videshi chingari” (foreign spark) was ignited. He emphasized the government’s focus on all-round development, women’s empowerment, and the “Viksit Bharat” (developed India) model. The session will see the tabling of the Economic Survey today and the Union Budget tomorrow.
Modi expressed confidence that the session will be productive, focusing on reform, performance, and transformation, and offering a particularly valuable learning experience for new MPs. He emphasized the long-term benefits of the government’s development vision, particularly for India’s young population, who will be the primary beneficiaries of the “Viksit Bharat” initiative in the coming decades. President Droupadi Murmu addressed a joint sitting of Parliament to officially commence the session.
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