GREATER NOIDA: Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Friday launched a scathing attack on opposition critics, particularly targeting Congress leader Rahul Gandhi, by labeling those who dispute India's economic growth figures as "vakradrashtas"—individuals possessing a distorted outlook.

Speaking at the inauguration of the fourth edition of the Uttar Pradesh International Trade Show (UP ITS) in Greater Noida, Shah asserted that India has not only successfully weathered global economic upheavals but has further accelerated its growth trajectory under Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership.

Highlighting the country's macroeconomic performance, Shah noted that India registered a robust 7.8 percent growth rate in the previous quarter, retaining its position as the fastest-growing major economy in the world. He also pointed out that Prime Minister Modi's economic vision has uplifted growth-rate projections from 6 percent to 7 percent, a progress echoed by positive sovereign rating upgrades from prominent international agencies like Japan's major rating agency.

"Despite the turmoil in the world and despite many hurdles, India has maintained its development and has taken it forward," Shah told the gathering. Addressing detractors head-on, he added, "Some 'vakradrashtas' keep disputing the GDP figures. Those whose thinking itself is dead cannot see vibrancy; they see dead everywhere."

Though Shah did not explicitly name anyone in his opening remarks, his comments were widely seen as a counter to remarks made by Leader of the Opposition in the Lok Sabha, Rahul Gandhi. Gandhi had previously criticized the central government’s economic record, claiming that the "Indian economy is dead" and accusing the administration of mishandling economic policies. Opposition parties have consistently raised questions regarding recent GDP statistics, pointing towards revisions in calculation methodologies and economic parameters.

Shifting focus to manufacturing, exports, and infrastructural milestones, the Home Minister stated that India's electronic exports have surged 11-fold compared to 2015 levels. He further noted that 12 major semiconductor projects spanning across six states have received formal approval, drawing investments in excess of Rs 1.64 lakh crore.

Shah also shed light on the government's fiscal health, reporting that capital expenditure has crossed the Rs 12.2 lakh crore mark. Reinforcing buoyant tax trends, he highlighted that the Goods and Services Tax (GST) collection for July touched an all-time high of Rs 2.11 lakh crore.

Emphasizing international trade expansion, Shah underscored that India’s expanding network of bilateral and multilateral trade pacts—including agreements with the UAE, Australia, the UK, EFTA nations, and the European Union—is unlocking unprecedented global markets for domestic entrepreneurs and businesses.