"Avoid Gold Imports": NITI Aayog VC Dr. Ashok Lahiri’s First Interview On PM Modi’s ‘Bachat’ Push

In a Mega Exclusive, India Today Group’s Marya Shakil sits down with the Vice Chairman of NITI Aayog, Dr. Ashok Lahiri, for his first interview since taking charge. As global uncertainty looms, Dr. Lahiri decodes PM Modi’s "Save More, Spend Less" mantra, sounding a sharp warning against India’s obsession with gold imports. Comparing India’s 34% GDP savings rate to the higher benchmarks of East Asia, Lahiri calls for a drastic cut in forex outflows and a shift toward smarter, nation-building investments. From market fluctuations to the "Niyat and Niti" of self-reliance, this is the definitive blueprint for India's economic future.