New Delhi, March 3 -- Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday said India can be a reliable and resilient manufacturing partner to the world, and that the recent free-trade pacts offer an opportunity to provide top-quality goods and services.

Studying the preferences and comfort levels of other countries is a paramount necessity, Modi said, speaking at a post-budget webinar to discuss reforms in sectors such as manufacturing and logistics, as well as for micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs). "Today, the world is looking for reliable and resilient manufacturing partners. India has the opportunity to play this role strongly."

India signed multiple free-trade agreements (FTAs) in FY26, including with the UK, the European Union. India...