Daijiworld Media Network - New Delhi

Ahmedabad, Apr 7: As economic anxieties deepen worldwide and political turbulence intensifies at home, the Congress party has gathered in Ahmedabad for a pivotal two-day National Convention, setting the stage for introspection, strategy, and a renewed push towards the 2029 general elections.

The high-stakes convention has drawn key party heavyweights — Shashi Tharoor, K.C. Venugopal, Ashok Gehlot, and party president Mallikarjun Kharge — with more than 90% of Congress Working Committee (CWC) members already in attendance. The arrival of Sonia Gandhi, Rahul Gandhi, and Priyanka Gandhi is expected on April 8, ahead of the CWC meeting that will anchor the proceedings.

Framing the convention as both a symbolic homecoming and a strategic inflection point, party leaders are expected to focus on redefining the Congress’s ideological stance, rebuilding organisational strength, and crafting a compelling narrative for the road ahead.

Speaking to reporters in Ahmedabad, senior Congress leader Shashi Tharoor raised concerns over the global economic climate, warning that several economies are teetering on the edge of recession.

“India has managed a 5.4% growth rate so far, and while there may be some decline, we could still dodge a recession,” Tharoor noted.

He stressed the urgency of securing strong bilateral trade deals to shield Indian exports from global headwinds. “The success of our trade negotiations will directly impact how resilient we remain in the face of these challenges,” he added.

Tharoor also recalled the adverse impact of the 26% reciprocal tariffs imposed on Indian exports during the Trump era, calling it a significant blow to Indo-US trade ties. “That move hurt not just India but had global repercussions,” he said, reflecting on the fragile nature of international economic relations.

Touching upon the symbolic resonance of Ahmedabad, Tharoor said the city holds deep historical roots for the Congress. “This is where Mahatma Gandhi assumed the presidency of the Indian National Congress — a landmark in our freedom struggle. As we meet here, we also commemorate the 150th birth anniversary of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, a stalwart of unity and leadership,” he remarked.

The convention’s agenda includes unveiling a comprehensive roadmap for the 2029 general elections, with particular focus on reviving the party’s base in Gujarat and across the nation. Key themes include restoring constitutional values, navigating economic turbulence, and prioritising social justice.

With the backdrop of internal reforms and external challenges, this convention marks a critical moment for Congress to realign, re-energise, and reclaim political ground.