India should aspire to become an economy where a strong rupee supports, rather than undermines, export growth, Chief Economic Advisor V Anantha Nageswaran said in an interview following the presentation of the Economic Survey 2025–26 in Parliament. As the principal author of the Survey, Nageswaran stressed that currency stability and strength are hallmarks of resilient and well-managed economies.

He noted that a currency known for constant depreciation signals economic vulnerability, while a stable rupee enhances confidence among investors and trading partners. According to the CEA, India’s long-term objective should be to improve productivity, competitiveness, and value addition so that exports remain strong even without currency depreciation.

Nageswaran also addressed concerns around foreign capital inflows, stating that India cannot afford to wait for global uncertainties to ease. Instead, he said, the government must proactively address long-standing investor concerns around tax simplicity, predictability, and policy continuity. These reforms, he argued, are critical to strengthening India’s investment climate and sustaining economic growth.

The remarks underline the government’s broader strategy of focusing on structural reforms, macroeconomic stability, and investor confidence as India navigates a challenging global environment.