India’s economy is poised to grow at 6.5% in the current fiscal year, supported by a robust domestic foundation and rising investment momentum, Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) President Sanjiv Puri said in a recent interview. He asserted that despite ongoing global geopolitical tensions, India remains resilient and well-positioned to weather short-term shocks.

“The fundamentals are strong—interest rates have eased, inflation is moderating, and personal income tax concessions that kicked in from April 1 will bolster consumption,” Puri said, adding that private investment is gaining traction across sectors such as energy, transportation, metals, chemicals, and hospitality.

While acknowledging the cautious sentiment triggered by geopolitical uncertainties, including trade tensions and conflicts, Puri stressed the importance of focusing on long-term growth strategies. “The economy is entering the year with a strong base, and this provides us the confidence that 6.5% growth is achievable,” he said.

Addressing the rising trend of global protectionism, Puri advocated for pursuing bilateral trade agreements with key partners like the United States and the European Union. “More and more barriers to trade are coming in. Bilateral pacts that align with national interests can ensure sustained access to global markets,” he explained.

He also proposed a three-tier tariff framework to boost competitiveness and support domestic industries. “It’s vital that we press hard on domestic growth drivers—agriculture, climate adaptation, and structural reforms,” Puri said.

On consumption trends, Puri noted that rural demand is beginning to recover, and urban consumption is expected to pick up in the coming quarters. He expressed hope for further interest rate cuts to stimulate demand and investment.

“In the face of global uncertainty, India’s path forward lies in building internal resilience and strategic international engagement,” he concluded.

India’s economy is poised to grow at 6.5% in the current fiscal year, supported by a robust domestic foundation and rising investment momentum, Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) President Sanjiv Puri said in a recent interview. He asserted that despite ongoing global geopolitical tensions, India remains resilient and well-positioned to weather short-term shocks.

“The fundamentals are strong—interest rates have eased, inflation is moderating, and personal income tax concessions that kicked in from April 1 will bolster consumption,” Puri said, adding that private investment is gaining traction across sectors such as energy, transportation, metals, chemicals, and hospitality.

While acknowledging the cautious sentiment triggered by geopolitical uncertainties, including trade tensions and conflicts, Puri stressed the importance of focusing on long-term growth strategies. “The economy is entering the year with a strong base, and this provides us the confidence that 6.5% growth is achievable,” he said.

Addressing the rising trend of global protectionism, Puri advocated for pursuing bilateral trade agreements with key partners like the United States and the European Union. “More and more barriers to trade are coming in. Bilateral pacts that align with national interests can ensure sustained access to global markets,” he explained.

He also proposed a three-tier tariff framework to boost competitiveness and support domestic industries. “It’s vital that we press hard on domestic growth drivers—agriculture, climate adaptation, and structural reforms,” Puri said.

On consumption trends, Puri noted that rural demand is beginning to recover, and urban consumption is expected to pick up in the coming quarters. He expressed hope for further interest rate cuts to stimulate demand and investment.

“In the face of global uncertainty, India’s path forward lies in building internal resilience and strategic international engagement,” he concluded.