Prime Minister Narendra Modi turned India's stronger-than-expected economic growth into a broader call for self-reliance, while taking a sharp swipe at the Opposition for what he described as spreading pessimism and falsehoods.

In a selfie-style Instagram video, Modi highlighted India's 7.8 per cent GDP growth in the April-June quarter, saying the performance demonstrated the country's resilience despite global uncertainty and disruptions linked to the war in Iran.

Aiming at his political opponents, the Prime Minister said that while the country was progressing, some were 'echoing falsehoods and spreading despair'.

He said India had risen above such obstacles to record 7.8 per cent growth and stressed the need to maintain the momentum.

Modi linked the country's economic progress with his call for an 'Atmanirbhar Bharat', urging citizens to embrace the 'Swadeshi' and 'Vocal for Local' mantra. He called on people to reconsider foreign holidays and weddings held overseas, pitching 'Wed in India' as an alternative.

He also appealed to citizens to avoid buying gold unless it was necessary, framing these choices as part of a broader push towards self-reliance and strengthening the domestic economy.

The Prime Minister said greater emphasis on Swadeshi and self-reliance would help build confidence among Indians and expressed hope that by the time India marks 100 years of Independence, the country would be able to hand over a 'Viksit Bharat' to its younger generation.

He said the country's policies were sound and its intentions were clear, urging people to work collectively towards the aspirations of India's youth.

India's economy expanded 7.8 per cent in Q1 of the 2026-27 financial year, beating expectations despite concerns that the Iran war and the resulting global economic uncertainty could weigh on growth.

While the latest figure marked a slowdown from the 8.6 per cent growth recorded in the previous quarter, it remained significantly stronger than anticipated amid concerns over the impact of the conflict on energy markets and the wider global economy.