As the Monsoon Session began on Monday (July 20, 2026), Prime Minister Narendra Modi urged Members of Parliament to engage in informed and respectful debate with a shared commitment to the country’s progress.

In an apparent veiled attack on the Leader of Opposition in Lok Sabha, Rahul Gandhi, Mr. Modi referred to the innovators at Indian startup Skyroot Aerospace, saying the company’s team — with an average age of 28 — had taken India’s flag to space.

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“I am not talking about some 56-year-old ‘youngster’. I am talking about a startup, the young people with an average age of 28, who have planted India’s flag in space...these are the kinds of achievements that fill India with immense pride,” said Mr. Modi.

“There are very few countries in the world where such private sector initiatives have taken place. India’s youth have truly soared to new heights in the space sector, it is a tremendous success,” said Mr. Modi.

Built by Skyroot, the Vikram-1 rocket lifted off ISRO’s First Launch Pad at Sriharikota on July 18 and placed its payloads in an orbit about 450 km above the Earth, making India the third country after the US and China whose private industry has demonstrated such a capability.

‘Several key milestones achieved’

The Prime Minister said India has achieved several key milestones over the past month, enhancing its standing and credibility on the global stage.

India’s expanding presence in space reflected the talent, aspirations, and limitless potential of the country’s youth, he said, noting that an Indian citizen had reached the International Space Station ahead of last year’s Monsoon Session.

Mr. Modi said the government’s reform-driven approach has created a conducive environment for young entrepreneurs to take bold initiatives and succeed.

Listing other major landmarks, the Prime Minister said an oil refinery in Rajasthan was dedicated to the country, India’s third semiconductor plant was commissioned, and a green hydrogen-powered train was launched.

Mr. Modi credited India’s scientists, innovators, engineers, entrepreneurs, and workers for the achievements, stating that their collective efforts are driving the country’s progress across sectors.

He said India remained the world’s fastest-growing major economy, recording a 7.7% GDP growth rate, despite disruptions to supplies of petrol, diesel, LPG and other commodities caused by the conflicts in West Asia.

Stressing that facts and reason should guide the discussions, Mr. Modi said every viewpoint deserves respect.

He said that as India gathers pace in its development journey, Parliament has a vital role in providing fresh impetus through constructive debates. He called for cooperation across party lines and contributions by experienced Members to address the aspirations of the country.