Prime Minister Narendra Modi has declared 2025 as a "landmark year" in India's reform journey, emphasizing the nation's rise as a "center of global attention". Modi highlighted that India has "boarded the Reform Express," driven by the country's youthful population and entrepreneurial spirit.

In a recent address, Modi noted that the world now views India with hope and confidence, appreciating the accelerated pace of progress through next-generation reforms. These reforms are cross-sectoral and designed to amplify the nation's growth potential. He stressed that 2025 will be remembered as a year when reforms became a continuous national mission, building on the progress made over the past 11 years. The government has focused on modernizing institutions, simplifying governance, and strengthening the foundations for long-term, inclusive growth.

Several key reforms were highlighted by the Prime Minister:

• GST Reform: A simplified Goods and Services Tax (GST) structure was introduced, featuring two primary slabs of 5% and 18%. This aims to reduce disputes, ease the burden on households, MSMEs, farmers, and labor-intensive sectors, and improve compliance.
• Income Tax Relief: Individuals earning up to ₹12 lakh annually now face no income tax. The outdated Income Tax Act of 1961 has been replaced with the modern and simplified Income Tax Act, 2025, marking a shift towards a transparent and technology-driven tax administration.
• Support for Small Businesses: The definition of "small companies" has been expanded to include firms with turnovers up to ₹100 crore, reducing compliance burdens and associated costs.
• Financial and Insurance Sector Reforms: The government permitted 100% Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) in the insurance sector, aiming to increase competition and improve services. The Securities Market Code Bill was introduced to strengthen investor protection, enhance governance, and simplify compliance through technology-driven systems.
• Maritime and Legal Changes: Five new maritime laws were passed to modernize logistics and reduce costs. Under the Jan Vishwas initiative, 71 outdated laws were repealed to eliminate unnecessary criminalization.

Modi also acknowledged India's achievements in national security, sports, science, and culture. He cited the men's cricket team winning the ICC Champions Trophy, the women's cricket team's first World Cup victory, and the women's blind cricket team winning the T20 World Cup. He also noted the success of "Operation Sindoor" as a symbol of national pride. Furthermore, Modi mentioned Shubhanshu Shukla becoming the first Indian to reach the International Space Station. The Prime Minister also highlighted the country's environmental initiatives and wildlife conservation efforts, noting that the cheetah population in India exceeded 30.

In addition to economic and social reforms, PM Modi emphasized the importance of faith, culture, and heritage, citing the Prayagraj Mahakumbh and the flag-hoisting ceremony at the Ram Temple in Ayodhya. He also cautioned against self-medication and urged people to use antibiotics only on doctors' advice, referencing an ICMR report on rising antibiotic resistance.