India will address challenges posed by global uncertainties such as tariff conflicts and shifting trade patterns through adaptable policies and a forward-looking approach, said Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman on Thursday. During her address at the 150th anniversary celebration of the BSE, Sitharaman acknowledged the threat of escalating tariff wars but expressed confidence in Indias economic resilience.

She highlighted that the world is currently experiencing a phase of trade recalibration, and India, too, is affected by global economic turbulence. “India is confident in its ability to manage these disruptions with flexible policies and a long-term perspective. Our priority is to strengthen our domestic base through infrastructure growth, inclusive development, and stronger regional cooperation. These aren’t merely shields against global shocks, but drivers of our long-term economic ambitions,” she said.

The finance minister warned that growing protectionism and tariff disputes could lead to disrupted global supply chains, increased production costs, and uncertainty for cross-border investments. Calling today’s environment a “VUCA” world—volatile, uncertain, complex, and ambiguous—Sitharaman emphasized the strength of India’s economic fundamentals and its sound macroeconomic management. She said India offers investors a stable and promising environment backed by policy consistency, governance, innovation, and robust democratic institutions.

She also stated that the upcoming 2025–26 Union Budget was framed with these global shifts in mind, aiming to improve domestic competitiveness and economic resilience. Sitharaman further applauded India’s regulatory framework, which continues to attract strong domestic and foreign investments despite global economic fluctuations.

At the same event, SEBI Chairperson Tuhin Kanta Pandey highlighted India’s capital markets as global examples of transparency and efficiency, referencing innovations like the T+1 trade settlement cycle. He urged market players to focus on governance, transparency, and public trust instead of chasing short-term profits. “Commercial goals must not take precedence over the public good,” Pandey stressed. Earlier that day, speaking at the CII Corporate Governance Summit, Pandey addressed concerns regarding the NSE IPO, assuring that SEBI will ensure public interest remains a priority. He noted that an internal committee has been formed to assess the IPO proposal thoroughly.

Disclaimer: This image is taken from KAMLESH PEDNEKAR.