Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday said India has maintained a 7.7% growth rate despite a war-like situation in West Asia, calling the country the fastest-growing major economy. He made the remarks while speaking to reporters in the Parliament complex ahead of the start of the Monsoon Session.

Modi said people are proud of India’s achievements at both national and international levels, and pointed to a recent milestone in the space sector. He noted that while earlier only one Indian citizen had reached the International Space Station, a young Indian start-up has now achieved a significant feat in space travel.

He said such bold private-sector efforts are seen in only a few countries, and credited Indian youth for demonstrating their capabilities by taking “new journeys” in space. The start-up, with an average team age of about 28, has “hoisted the Indian flag” in space, he added, extending his congratulations.

The Prime Minister also linked these achievements to reforms undertaken by the country. He said the West Asia conflict has created major challenges for nations like India that depend on other countries for energy and inputs such as petrol, diesel, LPG, fertilisers and chemicals, but stressed that India has continued to grow despite multiple obstacles.

Calling the Monsoon Session an opportunity to add fresh momentum, Modi urged MPs to ensure Parliament functions smoothly. He appealed for debates to be enriched by facts and arguments, and said there is no need for shouting and disruptions when viewpoints are presented with clarity and evidence.