FM Nirmala Sitharaman Explains India’s 7% Growth: Infrastructure, Fiscal Prudence & Inclusion

Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman explains India’s economic growth outlook during an interactive session at the Atlantic Council on the sidelines of the IMF–World Bank Annual Meetings. Asked about the IMF’s 7% growth projection for India amid global economic uncertainty, Sitharaman attributes the country’s performance to inclusive growth, youth skilling, fiscal prudence and sustained public investment. The Finance Minister highlights capital expenditure on infrastructure as a key driver of economic activity, arguing that it creates a multiplier effect by generating employment and directing money into the wider economy. She also says government borrowing should support asset creation, helping build infrastructure while maintaining fiscal responsibility.