The example of the iPhone is sufficient to understand this truth. The cost of assembling an iPhone in China is around 10–15 dollars, roughly one thousand rupees, while the same phone is sold in the global market for anywhere between seventy thousand and one and a half lakh rupees. A natural question arises: where does the remaining value go? The answer is clear. The iPhone is designed in California, its chips are manufactured in Taiwan, its operating system and software are developed by engineers in countries such as the United States and India and the brand value remains with Western companies. In other words, the real profit goes to the country that thinks, innovates and owns intellectual property, not to the one that merely assembles the product.

The Illusion of Cheap Labour and the Reality of Purchasing Power

For decades, developing countries like India have believed that their greatest strength lies in cheap labour and on this basis, they have defined their role in the global economy. In the initial phase, this strategy did generate employment opportunities, but in the long run the same thinking became one of the biggest reasons for weak purchasing power. When an economy is primarily dependent on low-value activities such as assembly, packaging, or outsourcing, wages naturally remain limited and rapid growth in incomes becomes difficult.

Low income directly affects domestic consumption, leading to weak market demand and a slowdown in the pace of economic growth. The greatest burden of this situation falls on the middle class, which on the one hand struggles with rising inflation and on the other is forced to continually scale down its lifestyle and aspirations due to limited wage growth. In economics, this condition is described as the “middle-income trap,” where a country manages to move out of poverty but remains stuck at the threshold of becoming a developed economy due to the lack of innovation and high-value creation.

Real Wealth Knowledge Not Labour

Renowned economist Thomas Stewart, in his book The Wealth of Knowledge, clearly states that in the economy of the twenty-first century, the real form of capital is not labour or natural resources, but intellectual capital, that is, knowledge, innovation and skills. Today, the countries that are economically prosperous and stable are those that continuously invest in research and development, treat higher education as a national priority and establish leadership in high-value domains such as design, patents, software and brands.

This is precisely why Germany leads in advanced engineering, South Korea in electronics and technology, Japan in high-quality manufacturing and the United States in global innovation. The success of these countries underlines the fact that in the modern economy, real wealth is generated not by the labour of hands, but by the power of the mind.

Why Manufacturing Alone Is Not Enough

Relying solely on manufacturing is no longer sufficient to make a country prosperous in today’s global economy. A well-known study by American researchers Greg Linden, Kenneth Kraemer and Jason Dedrick, Who Profits from Innovation in Global Value Chains, reveals that China’s share in the total value of an iPhone is less than two percent, while most of the profits go to countries that own its design, software and brand. This example clearly shows that control over production and intellectual property matters far more than the sheer volume of production.

This reality is not limited to the mobile phone industry. In every modern sector, fashion, pharmaceuticals, automobiles, semiconductors, artificial intelligence and biotechnology, the leading countries are those that control innovation, not those that merely supply labour.

The Path to a Developed India Education and Innovation

For India, the true path to becoming a developed nation lies through education and innovation. If India genuinely seeks to become a developed country and bring about a substantial increase in the purchasing power of ordinary citizens, policy priorities must shift from merely expanding production to promoting knowledge-based development. At present, India spends only about 0.37 to 0.4 percent of its GDP on higher education and research, which is extremely low by global standards. In contrast, China invests around 1.2 percent and the United States more than 1.7 percent, while the figure is even higher in developed OECD countries.

This gap in investment in education and research ultimately determines which countries will become the creators of future technologies, products and ideas and which will remain merely consumers of innovations developed elsewhere.

Warnings from the World Bank and the United Nations

Global institutions such as the World Bank and the United Nations have repeatedly issued warnings on this issue. The World Bank’s report The Innovation Paradox clearly states that developing countries invest relatively less in innovation and higher education, even though these areas yield the highest returns. Similarly, the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD) and the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) have consistently emphasized that without skill development, research, technical education and a strong startup ecosystem, no country can move beyond the role of a mere consumer in the global economy to become a nation that creates value.

Time to Move from Digital India to Design India

After the achievements of Digital India, the next and far more decisive goal before the country is to move towards “Design India.” India today stands at a historic juncture, with a vast young population, rapidly strengthening digital infrastructure and the active presence of global technology companies. However, merely writing code or providing services does not make a nation a technological superpower. For that, control is required across all four dimensions, design, development, discovery and disruption.

Until India develops its own semiconductors and chips, secures patents for its technologies, transforms its universities into genuine research hubs and builds deep partnerships between industry and academia, the economy will not be able to move towards high-value creation and the purchasing power of the common citizen will remain limited.

The message for policymakers is absolutely clear: if the dream of a truly developed India is to be realized, fundamental changes in thinking and priorities are essential. Education must now be viewed not merely as government expenditure but as a long-term national investment. Innovation should not be limited to startup culture but extended to all sectors, including industry, agriculture, health and governance. In addition, research and development must receive organized and sustained support at both public and private levels. Most importantly, instead of preparing youth merely to seek jobs, they must be empowered to create jobs, innovate and generate value, because the future of any nation depends on the creative capacity of its young generation.

Nations Are Built by Minds, Not Hands

As the world enters the Fourth Industrial Revolution, it becomes clear that nations are built not by the labour of hands but by the power of minds. Low-cost labour may have placed India on the global map, but only innovation and education can make it a master of that map. Today, what is needed is greater investment in minds rather than hands, prioritizing creation over mere manufacturing and moving beyond the mindset of cheap production toward high-value, high-quality creation.

If India is to achieve a real increase in the purchasing power of its citizens and truly become a developed nation, education and innovation must be more than just policy, they must become a national movement. Nations develop not by following the future but by shaping it.

The post How Innovation Will Shape a Developed India appeared first on VisionViksitBharat.

सस्ते श्रम का भ्रम और क्रय-शक्ति की सच्चाई

भारत जैसे विकासशील देशों में दशकों तक यह मान्यता बनी रही कि हमारी सबसे बड़ी ताकत सस्ता श्रम है और इसी के आधार पर हमने वैश्विक अर्थव्यवस्था में अपनी भूमिका तय की। प्रारंभिक दौर में इस रणनीति ने रोज़गार के अवसर तो दिए, लेकिन लंबे समय में यही सोच हमारी कम क्रय-शक्ति की सबसे बड़ी वजह बन गई। जब कोई अर्थव्यवस्था मुख्य रूप से कम मूल्य वाले कार्यों, जैसे असेंबली, पैकेजिंग या आउटसोर्सिंग पर निर्भर रहती है, तो वहाँ मजदूरी स्वाभाविक रूप से सीमित रहती है और आय में तेज़ वृद्धि संभव नहीं हो पाती। कम आय का सीधा असर घरेलू खपत पर पड़ता है, जिससे बाज़ार की मांग कमजोर रहती है और आर्थिक विकास की गति धीमी हो जाती है। इसका सबसे बड़ा दबाव मध्यम वर्ग पर पड़ता है, जो एक ओर बढ़ती महँगाई से जूझता है और दूसरी ओर सीमित वेतन वृद्धि के कारण अपनी जीवन-शैली और आकांक्षाओं को लगातार समेटने को मजबूर होता है। अर्थशास्त्र में इस स्थिति को “मिडिल इनकम ट्रैप” कहा जाता है, जहाँ कोई देश गरीबी से तो बाहर निकल आता है, लेकिन नवाचार और उच्च मूल्य सृजन के अभाव में विकसित अर्थव्यवस्था बनने की दहलीज़ पर ही अटका रह जाता है।

समृद्ध वैश्विक अनुभव यह सिद्ध करता है कि किसी देश की आर्थिक शक्ति का आधार कम मजदूरी नहीं, बल्कि नवाचार, उत्पादकता और तकनीकी बढ़त होती है। अमेरिका, जर्मनी, जापान और दक्षिण कोरिया जैसे देशों में औसत मजदूरी विश्व के सर्वोच्च स्तरों में है, फिर भी ये देश वैश्विक बाजारों में अग्रणी बने हुए हैं। इसका कारण यह है कि उनकी अर्थव्यवस्थाएँ केवल निर्माण तक सीमित नहीं हैं, बल्कि अनुसंधान एवं विकास (R&D), डिज़ाइन, ब्रांडिंग, पेटेंट, और उच्च मूल्य वर्धन पर आधारित हैं। उदाहरण के लिए, जर्मनी की “मिडलस्टैंड” कंपनियाँ अत्यधिक विशिष्ट तकनीकी उत्पाद बनाती हैं, जिनका कोई सस्ता विकल्प विश्व में उपलब्ध नहीं होता। इसी तरह, जापान और अमेरिका नवाचार के माध्यम से ऐसे उत्पाद और तकनीक विकसित करते हैं, जिनकी मांग मूल्य से अधिक गुणवत्ता और विश्वसनीयता पर आधारित होती है। उच्च प्रति-श्रमिक उत्पादन (Labour Productivity) के कारण ये देश ऊँची मजदूरी देने के बावजूद प्रतिस्पर्धी बने रहते हैं और वैश्विक मूल्य श्रृंखला में शीर्ष स्थान पर होते हैं।

दक्षिण कोरिया का अनुभव विशेष रूप से भारत के लिए प्रेरक है। 1960 के दशक में दक्षिण कोरिया की प्रति व्यक्ति आय भारत के आसपास ही थी और उसके पास भी सीमित प्राकृतिक संसाधन थे। किंतु कोरिया ने दीर्घकालिक दृष्टि अपनाते हुए शिक्षा, विज्ञान, इंजीनियरिंग और तकनीकी कौशल को राष्ट्रीय विकास की धुरी बनाया। सरकार, उद्योग और विश्वविद्यालयों के बीच गहरा सहयोग स्थापित किया गया, जिससे अनुसंधान सीधे औद्योगिक उत्पादन और निर्यात से जुड़ सका। परिणामस्वरूप, सैमसंग, एलजी और हुंडई जैसी कंपनियाँ केवल सस्ते उत्पाद बनाने वाली इकाइयाँ नहीं रहीं, बल्कि वैश्विक तकनीकी ब्रांड बन गईं। आज दक्षिण कोरिया GDP का बड़ा हिस्सा R&D पर निवेश करता है और उच्च तकनीक वाले उत्पादों का निर्यात करता है। यह परिवर्तन इस बात का ठोस प्रमाण है कि सही नीति, निरंतर निवेश और नवाचार-केन्द्रित सोच से कोई भी देश सस्ते श्रम के जाल से निकलकर विकसित अर्थव्यवस्था बन सकता है।

वास्तविक संपत्ति: श्रम नहीं, ज्ञान

प्रसिद्ध अर्थशास्त्री थॉमस स्टुअर्ट ने अपनी पुस्तक The Wealth of Knowledge में स्पष्ट रूप से कहा है कि इक्कीसवीं सदी की अर्थव्यवस्था में असली पूंजी श्रम या प्राकृतिक संसाधन नहीं, बल्कि इंटेलेक्चुअल कैपिटल है, अर्थात् ज्ञान, नवाचार और कौशल। आज विश्व में वही देश आर्थिक रूप से समृद्ध और स्थिर हैं जो अनुसंधान एवं विकास में लगातार निवेश करते हैं, उच्च शिक्षा को राष्ट्रीय प्राथमिकता मानते हैं और डिज़ाइन, पेटेंट, सॉफ्टवेयर तथा ब्रांड जैसे उच्च मूल्य वाले क्षेत्रों में नेतृत्व स्थापित करते हैं। इसी कारण जर्मनी अपनी उन्नत इंजीनियरिंग, दक्षिण कोरिया इलेक्ट्रॉनिक्स और तकनीक, जापान उच्च गुणवत्ता वाले विनिर्माण और अमेरिका वैश्विक नवाचार के क्षेत्र में अग्रणी बने हुए हैं। इन देशों की सफलता इस तथ्य को रेखांकित करती है कि आधुनिक अर्थव्यवस्था में वास्तविक संपत्ति हाथों की मेहनत से नहीं, बल्कि दिमाग की क्षमता से पैदा होती है।

केवल मैन्युफैक्चरिंग क्यों पर्याप्त नहीं है

केवल मैन्युफैक्चरिंग पर निर्भर रहना आज की वैश्विक अर्थव्यवस्था में किसी देश को समृद्ध बनाने के लिए पर्याप्त नहीं है। अमेरिकी शोधकर्ताओं ग्रेग लिंडन, केनेथ क्रेमर और जेसन डेड्रिक के प्रसिद्ध अध्ययन Who Profits from Innovation in Global Value Chains में यह तथ्य सामने आया है कि आईफोन की कुल वैल्यू में चीन की हिस्सेदारी दो प्रतिशत से भी कम है, जबकि अधिकांश मुनाफा उन देशों को जाता है जो उसके डिजाइन, सॉफ्टवेयर और ब्रांड के मालिक हैं। यह उदाहरण स्पष्ट करता है कि उत्पादन की मात्रा से अधिक महत्वपूर्ण उत्पादन पर नियंत्रण और बौद्धिक अधिकार हैं। यह स्थिति केवल मोबाइल उद्योग तक सीमित नहीं है; फैशन, फार्मास्यूटिकल्स, ऑटोमोबाइल, सेमीकंडक्टर, आर्टिफिशियल इंटेलिजेंस और बायोटेक जैसे हर आधुनिक क्षेत्र में वही देश अग्रणी हैं जो नवाचार को नियंत्रित करते हैं, न कि वे जो केवल श्रम प्रदान करते हैं।

विकसित भारत का रास्ता: शिक्षा और नवाचार

भारत के लिए विकसित राष्ट्र बनने का वास्तविक रास्ता शिक्षा और नवाचार से होकर गुजरता है। यदि भारत को सचमुच विकसित भारत बनाना है और आम नागरिक की क्रय-शक्ति में ठोस वृद्धि करनी है, तो नीतियों का केंद्र केवल उत्पादन बढ़ाने से हटाकर ज्ञान-आधारित विकास की ओर ले जाना होगा। वर्तमान में भारत उच्च शिक्षा और शोध पर अपनी सकल घरेलू उत्पाद का मात्र 0.37 से 0.4 प्रतिशत ही खर्च करता है, जो वैश्विक मानकों की तुलना में अत्यंत कम है। इसके विपरीत चीन इस क्षेत्र में लगभग 1.2 प्रतिशत और अमेरिका 1.7 प्रतिशत से अधिक निवेश करता है, जबकि विकसित OECD देशों में यह अनुपात और भी ऊँचा है। शिक्षा और अनुसंधान में निवेश का यही अंतर तय करता है कि कौन देश भविष्य की तकनीक, उत्पाद और विचारों का निर्माता बनेगा और कौन केवल दूसरों द्वारा विकसित नवाचारों का उपभोक्ता बनकर रह जाएगा।

विश्व बैंक और संयुक्त राष्ट्र की चेतावनी

विश्व बैंक और संयुक्त राष्ट्र जैसे वैश्विक संस्थानों ने भी इस विषय पर बार-बार चेतावनी दी है। विश्व बैंक की रिपोर्ट The Innovation Paradox स्पष्ट रूप से कहती है कि विकासशील देश नवाचार और उच्च शिक्षा में अपेक्षाकृत कम निवेश करते हैं, जबकि इन्हीं क्षेत्रों से मिलने वाला प्रतिफल सबसे अधिक होता है। इसी प्रकार संयुक्त राष्ट्र व्यापार एवं विकास सम्मेलन (UNCTAD) और आर्थिक सहयोग एवं विकास संगठन (OECD) लगातार यह रेखांकित करते रहे हैं कि कौशल विकास, अनुसंधान, तकनीकी शिक्षा और एक मजबूत स्टार्टअप इकोसिस्टम के बिना कोई भी देश वैश्विक अर्थव्यवस्था में केवल उपभोक्ता की भूमिका से बाहर निकलकर मूल्य सृजन करने वाला राष्ट्र नहीं बन सकता।

डिजिटल भारत से डिज़ाइन भारत की ओर जाने का समय

डिजिटल भारत की उपलब्धियों के बाद अब देश के सामने अगला और कहीं अधिक निर्णायक लक्ष्य “डिज़ाइन भारत” की ओर बढ़ना है। भारत के पास आज एक ऐतिहासिक अवसर मौजूद है, एक विशाल युवा जनसंख्या, तेजी से मजबूत होता डिजिटल इंफ्रास्ट्रक्चर और वैश्विक टेक कंपनियों की सक्रिय उपस्थिति। लेकिन केवल कोड लिखना या सेवाएँ देना ही किसी राष्ट्र को तकनीकी महाशक्ति नहीं बनाता। इसके लिए डिज़ाइन, डेवलपमेंट, डिस्कवरी और डिस्रप्शन—इन चारों क्षेत्रों में नियंत्रण आवश्यक है। जब तक भारत अपने सेमीकंडक्टर और चिप्स स्वयं विकसित नहीं करेगा, अपनी तकनीकों पर पेटेंट नहीं लेगा, अपनी यूनिवर्सिटीज़ को वास्तविक रिसर्च हब में परिवर्तित नहीं करेगा और उद्योग तथा शिक्षा के बीच गहरी साझेदारी स्थापित नहीं करेगा, तब तक देश की अर्थव्यवस्था उच्च मूल्य सृजन की ओर नहीं बढ़ पाएगी और आम नागरिक की क्रय-शक्ति सीमित ही बनी रहेगी।

नीति-निर्माताओं के लिए संदेश बिल्कुल स्पष्ट है कि यदि वास्तव में विकसित भारत के सपने को साकार करना है, तो सोच और प्राथमिकताओं में बुनियादी बदलाव करना होगा। शिक्षा को अब केवल सरकारी खर्च के रूप में नहीं, बल्कि दीर्घकालिक राष्ट्रीय निवेश के रूप में देखना होगा। नवाचार को केवल स्टार्टअप संस्कृति तक सीमित रखने के बजाय उसे उद्योग, कृषि, स्वास्थ्य और शासन जैसे सभी क्षेत्रों तक विस्तार देना होगा। इसके साथ ही अनुसंधान एवं विकास को सरकारी और निजी, दोनों स्तरों पर संगठित और निरंतर समर्थन देना अनिवार्य है। सबसे महत्वपूर्ण यह है कि युवाओं को केवल नौकरी खोजने के लिए तैयार करने के बजाय उन्हें नौकरी सृजित करने वाला, नवाचार करने वाला और मूल्य पैदा करने वाला बनाना होगा, क्योंकि किसी भी राष्ट्र का भविष्य उसकी युवा पीढ़ी की रचनात्मक क्षमता पर ही टिका होता है।

हाथ नहीं, दिमाग राष्ट्र बनाते हैं

भारत की विशाल युवा आबादी तभी राष्ट्रीय संपदा बन सकती है, जब वह कुशल, नवाचारी और तकनीक-सक्षम हो। बीते दशकों में भारत ने सॉफ्टवेयर, फार्मास्यूटिकल्स, अंतरिक्ष और डिजिटल सेवाओं जैसे क्षेत्रों में यह सिद्ध किया है कि जहाँ ज्ञान और नवाचार को बढ़ावा मिला, वहाँ भारत ने वैश्विक नेतृत्व किया। ISRO का कम लागत में सफल अंतरिक्ष मिशन, भारत का वैश्विक दवा आपूर्ति में अग्रणी स्थान और डिजिटल पब्लिक इंफ्रास्ट्रक्चर (UPI, Aadhaar) इस बात के उदाहरण हैं कि भारत की ताकत सस्ते श्रम में नहीं, बल्कि उच्च बौद्धिक क्षमता और नवाचार में निहित है।

आज जब विश्व चौथे औद्योगिक क्रांति में प्रवेश कर रहा है तो यह स्पष्ट हो जाता है कि राष्ट्रों का निर्माण केवल हाथों की मेहनत से नहीं, बल्कि दिमागों की शक्ति से होता है। कम लागत वाला श्रम भारत को वैश्विक मानचित्र पर तो ले आया, लेकिन नवाचार और शिक्षा ही उसे उस मानचित्र का स्वामी बना सकते हैं। आज आवश्यकता है हाथों की तुलना में दिमागों में अधिक निवेश करने की, निर्माण से आगे बढ़कर सृजन को प्राथमिकता देने की और सस्ते उत्पादन की मानसिकता से बाहर निकलकर उच्च गुणवत्ता सृजन की दिशा में कदम बढ़ाने की। यदि भारत को अपनी जनता की क्रय-शक्ति में वास्तविक वृद्धि करनी है और देश को सच अर्थों में विकसित बनाना है, तो शिक्षा और नवाचार को केवल नीति का हिस्सा नहीं, बल्कि एक राष्ट्रीय आंदोलन बनाना ही होगा, क्योंकि राष्ट्र भविष्य को जोड़कर नहीं, बल्कि भविष्य को गढ़कर विकसित होते हैं।

The post सस्ते श्रम व उत्पादन नहीं, नवाचार से बनेंगे विकसित भारत appeared first on VisionViksitBharat.

“भारत जमीन का टुकड़ा नहीं,

जीता जागता राष्ट्रपुरुष है”

           अटल जी केवल एक राजनेता नहीं थे, वे एक विचार, एक चेतना और एक संस्कार बनकर भारतीय जनमानस में स्थायी रूप से प्रतिष्ठित हो गए।

अटल बिहारी वाजपेयी का नाम आते ही साहित्य, साधना और समाजसेवा का अद्भुत समन्वय दृष्टिगोचर होता है। वे उन विरले राजनेताओं में से थे, जिनके लिए राजनीति सत्ता-सुख का साधन नहीं, बल्कि राष्ट्रनिर्माण का दायित्व थी। जब सदन में उनका कवि हृदय ललकार उठता था..

“सरकारें आएंगी, जाएंगी, पार्टियां बनेंगी, बिगड़ेंगी मगर ये देश रहना चाहिए।”

                  उनकी वैचारिक निष्ठा और राजनीतिक आचरण में अद्भुत सामंजस्य था। आज की राजनीति में जहाँ अवसरवाद और स्वार्थ प्रधान होते जा रहे हैं, वहाँ अटल जी की राजनीति ‘राष्ट्र प्रथम’ की भावना और वैचारिक प्रतिबद्धता का आदर्श प्रस्तुत करती है। ऐसे व्यक्तित्व राजनीति में अत्यंत दुर्लभ होते हैं, जो सत्ता से ऊपर उठकर सिद्धांतों के केंद्र में रहकर राष्ट्रहित की राजनीति करते हैं।

अटल जी की सामाजिक स्वीकार्यता और राजनीतिक सहमति भारतीय राजनीति में अद्वितीय रही। वे ऐसे गैर-कांग्रेसी नेता थे, जिन्हें न केवल अपने दल में, बल्कि विपक्ष में भी सम्मान और विश्वास प्राप्त था। उनके भाषणों में ओज था, पर मर्यादा के साथ; विरोध था, पर संवाद के साथ। संसद में उनकी उपस्थिति भारतीय लोकतंत्र की गरिमा को और ऊँचाई प्रदान करती थी। जब एक बार सदन में उनकी सरकार एक मत से गिर गई, तब उन्होंने मुस्कराते हुए विपक्ष में बैठना स्वीकार किया।

आपातकाल के दौर में अटल बिहारी वाजपेयी की भूमिका भारतीय लोकतंत्र के इतिहास में स्वर्णाक्षरों में अंकित है। जब अभिव्यक्ति की स्वतंत्रता का दमन हो रहा था और लोकतंत्र बंधक बना लिया गया था, तब अटल जी ने निर्भीक होकर तानाशाही के विरुद्ध आवाज उठाई। जेल की चारदीवारी भी उनके विचारों को बाँध न सकी। उसी पीड़ा में उनका साहित्य भाव पंक्तियों में उतरा.

अनुशासन के नाम पर अनुशासन का खून

भंग कर दिया संघ को, कैसा चढ़ा जुनून…

यह संघर्ष सत्ता के लिए नहीं, बल्कि लोकतांत्रिक मूल्यों की रक्षा के लिए था। आपातकाल ने यह सिद्ध कर दिया कि अटल जी केवल एक नेता नहीं, बल्कि लोकतंत्र के सजग प्रहरी थे।

प्रधानमंत्री के रूप में अटल जी का सबसे ऐतिहासिक निर्णय 1998 का पोखरण परमाणु परीक्षण रहा। इस परीक्षण ने भारत को विश्व पटल पर एक सशक्त, आत्मनिर्भर और स्वाभिमानी राष्ट्र के रूप में स्थापित किया। अंतरराष्ट्रीय दबावों और प्रतिबंधों की परवाह किए बिना उन्होंने यह स्पष्ट संदेश दिया कि भारत अपनी संप्रभुता और सुरक्षा से कोई समझौता नहीं करेगा। पोखरण अटल जी की दूरदृष्टि, साहस और राष्ट्रहित में लिए गए कठोर निर्णयों का प्रतीक है।

विकास के क्षेत्र में भी अटल जी की सोच उतनी ही व्यापक और दूरदर्शी थी। स्वर्णिम चतुर्भुज परियोजना केवल सड़कों का जाल नहीं थी, बल्कि भारत की आर्थिक गति को नई ऊर्जा देने वाला क्रांतिकारी कदम था। दिल्ली, मुंबई, कोलकाता और चेन्नई को जोड़ने वाली यह योजना देश के औद्योगिक, व्यापारिक और सामाजिक ढाँचे को सुदृढ़ करने वाली सिद्ध हुई। अटल जी का विश्वास था कि सशक्त सड़कें केवल शहरों को नहीं, बल्कि सपनों को भी जोड़ती हैं।

कारगिल युद्ध के समय देश ने अटल बिहारी वाजपेयी के संयमित, दृढ़ और साहसी नेतृत्व को निकट से देखा। उन्होंने सेना को पूर्ण स्वतंत्रता और समर्थन दिया तथा अंतरराष्ट्रीय मंच पर भारत का पक्ष प्रभावी ढंग से रखा। कारगिल विजय केवल सैन्य सफलता नहीं थी, बल्कि अटल जी के निर्णायक नेतृत्व और अटूट राष्ट्रभक्ति का प्रमाण थी। युद्ध के बाद भी उन्होंने शांति का मार्ग चुनते हुए स्पष्ट किया था “हम युद्ध नहीं चाहते, पर शांति हमारी कमजोरी नहीं है।”

अटल बिहारी वाजपेयी का व्यक्तित्व उन्हें राजनीति का अजातशत्रु बनाता है। वे सिद्धांतों पर अडिग रहे, पर संवाद और सहमति के सदैव पक्षधर रहे। उनकी राजनीति में कटुता नहीं, गरिमा थी; विरोध था, पर सम्मान के साथ। उनका साहित्यिक पक्ष भी उतना ही प्रभावशाली था। उनकी कविताएँ राष्ट्रभावना, मानवीय संवेदना और आत्मचिंतन से परिपूर्ण हैं

हिंदू तन-मन, हिंदू जीवन

रग-रग मेरा हिंदू परिचय…

                           यही कारण है कि अटल बिहारी वाजपेयी केवल सत्ता के प्रधानमंत्री नहीं, बल्कि जन-जन के प्रधानमंत्री बने। आज जब भारतीय राजनीति कटुता, अविश्वास और दिशाहीनता के दौर से गुजर रही है, तब अटल जी का जीवन और विचार हमें लोकतांत्रिक मर्यादा, वैचारिक निष्ठा और राष्ट्रसेवा का शाश्वत मार्ग दिखाते हैं। वे भारतीय राजनीति के ऐसे प्रकाशस्तंभ हैं, जिनकी रोशनी आने वाली पीढ़ियों को भी सदैव प्रेरित करती रहेगी।

The post भारतीय राष्ट्रवाद के वैचारिक अधिष्ठान है अटल जी! appeared first on VisionViksitBharat.

प्राचीन भारत की संस्कृति और संविधान के मूल्यों का संगम

प्राचीन भारत में धार्मिक-दार्शनिक परिप्रेक्ष्य से मानव-समाज को देखा गया, जहाँ कर्म, संस्कार, समता, अहिंसा, एवं बहुलता-सहिष्णुता के सिद्धांत प्रमुख थे। उदाहरण के लिए “वसुधैव कुटुम्बकम्” की भावना सिर्फ वैश्विक दृष्टि नहीं, बल्कि सामाजिक अंतःकरण की सहज अनुभूति थी। इस प्रकार- हमारी संस्कृति ने विविधता में एकता को एक स्वभावतः स्वीकार्य स्थिति माना।

भारतीय संविधान ने इन प्रवृत्तियों को अपनी संरचना में समाहित किया। संविधान के प्रस्तावना में …हम, भारत के लोग कहने के साथ हम सामाजिक, आर्थिक एवं राजनीतिक न्याय, विचार, अभिव्यक्ति, धर्म एवं उपासना की स्वतंत्रता, अवसर की समता के साथ ऐसे भ्रातृत्व विकसित करने की बात करते हैं जिससे व्यक्तिगत गरिमा सुनिश्चित हो सके तथा राष्ट्र की एकता एवं अखण्डता स्थापित हो सके। यह स्पष्ट बताता है कि संविधान हेतु “स्वतंत्रता- समानता-बंधुत्व” ये तीन स्तम्भ हैं।

भारतीय संविधान ने समानता, स्वतंत्रता और भ्रातृत्व के सिद्धांतों को न केवल कानूनी प्रावधानों के रूप में, बल्कि सामाजिक नैतिकता के रूप में स्थापित किया है। संविधान ने समानता की गारंटी दी है की “प्रत्येक नागरिक को कानून के समक्ष समानता का अधिकार है” और “किसी भी व्यक्ति के साथ धर्म, जाति, लिंग या जन्म-स्थान के आधार पर भेदभाव नहीं किया जाएगा” (अनुच्छेद 14-15)। इसी प्रकार, संविधान ने विविध धर्मों, आस्थाओं और संस्कृतियों के प्रति समभाव और सम्मान को प्रोत्साहित किया है। अनुच्छेद 25 नागरिकों को “धर्म की स्वतंत्रता” प्रदान करता है और राज्य को धर्म-निरपेक्ष बने रहने की दिशा में मार्गदर्शन देता है। इसके अतिरिक्त, संविधान के अनुच्छेद 51-ए में नागरिकों के मौलिक कर्तव्यों को निर्धारित किया गया है जिनमें “राष्ट्र की एकता और अखण्डता की रक्षा करना”, “साम्प्रदायिक, भाषाई और क्षेत्रीय भेदभाव से ऊपर उठना” तथा “सामाजिक भ्रातृत्व को विकसित करना” जैसे उद्देश्यों को प्रमुखता दी गई है। इन प्रावधानों के माध्यम से भारतीय संविधान ने प्राचीन भारतीय जीवन-दर्शन की मूल भावनाओं जैसे सहनशीलता, करुणा, समानता और विविधता में एकता को आधुनिक संवैधानिक ढांचे में सशक्त रूप से स्थापित किया है।

संविधान = आधुनिक भारत का अभिभाषक-मंच

संविधान ने भारत को एक राष्ट्र-राज्य के रूप में आकार दिया है जिसमें राज्यों की संघ-व्यवस्था, एक नागरिकता, एक राष्ट्रीय बाजार, एक न्याय-प्रणाली तथा एक सार्वभौमिक संवैधानिक छत्र-मंडल मौजूद है। उदाहरण के लिए संविधान के आठवें अनुसूची में 22 भाषाएँ सूचीबद्ध हैं।  इसके अतिरिक्त, संविधान ने “एक देश-एक बाजार” की दिशा में भी कदम उठाया है, उदाहरण के लिए संविधान का अनुच्छेद 301 व्यापार में स्वतंत्रता देता है। इस प्रकार, संविधान ने आधुनिक भारत में इस तरह की संरचना दी है जो विविध राज्यों-भाषाओं-समुदायों को एक साझा राष्ट्रीय मंच पर लाती है और इस साझा मंच के भीतर विविधता को सम्मानित करती है। इसे हम कह सकते हैं की संविधान ने प्राचीन संस्कृति के समावेशी भाव को आधुनिक भारत की संवैधानिक व्यवस्था में स्थान दिया।

सामाजिक सूत्र और राष्ट्रीय एकता

संविधान ने केवल कानूनी अधिकार नहीं दिए बल्कि एक सामाजिक सूत्र स्थापित किया जहाँ प्रत्येक नागरिक को “हम-भारतवासी” की भावना का अनुभव हो। सामाजिक सद्भाव-भाव, विविधता-स्वीकृति और मिली-जुली पहचान को संवैधानिक मान्यता मिली है। इस दृष्टि से संविधान ने “बहु-संस्कृति में एकता”(Unity in Diversity) का स्वरूप कानूनी-संस्थागत रूप में स्थापित किया है। उदाहरणस्वरूप: नागरिकों को यह कर्तव्य सौंपा गया है कि वे “भारत के समृद्ध सांस्कृतिक-विरासत को संरक्षित करें तथा सभी प्रकार की सांप्रदायिक, भाषाई एवं क्षेत्रीय विभाजनकारी प्रवृत्तियों से ऊपर उठें।” यह सामाजिक-धारा विशेष रूप से भारत जैसे गौण-भाषाई-समाज वाले देश में राष्ट्रीयता की मजबूत नींव बनती है। संविधान का यह सामाजिक-संदेश “मैं-भिन्न हूँ लेकिन हम-एक हैं” का मूल बनाए रखता है।

संविधान का राष्ट्रीय एकता के प्रति योगदान

1. भाषाई एवं सांस्कृतिक समावेशन : भारत में 29 से अधिक राज्य एवं संघ-शासित प्रदेश, 7 हजार से अधिक जातियां, 100 + भाषाएँ एवं बोलियाँ हैं। संविधान ने इन सभी को सिर्फ स्वीकार नहीं किया, बल्कि संवैधानिक तौर-पर संरक्षित किया। उदाहरण के लिए, भाषाई विविधता को संरक्षित करने हेतु विभिन्न संस्थागत प्रावधान किए गए।
2. सामाजिक न्याय एवं समता–प्रवर्तन : संविधान ने अस्पृश्यता को समाप्त किया (अनुच्छेद 17) तथा पिछड़ों, अनुसूचित जाति-जनजाति को विशेष प्रावधान दिए। ये न सिर्फ सामाजिक समावेशन की दिशा हैं, बल्कि राष्ट्रीय एकता को मज़बूती देते हैं, क्योंकि अलग-थलग पड़ने की भावना को कम करते हैं।
3. संघ–राज्य समन्वय एवं अखण्डता : संविधान ने “भारत संघ” को एक अखण्ड इकाई के रूप में देखा है और संघवाद के साथ एकात्मता को प्राथमिकता दी है।

वैश्विक दृष्टि से भारत का उदाहरण

आज अन्य देशों में धार्मिक-भाषाई विभाजन, अलगाववादी वृत्तियाँ बढ़ रही हैं। ऐसे समय में भारत का संवैधानिक मॉडल एक प्रासंगिक उदाहरण प्रस्तुत करता है। पूर्व राष्ट्रपति राम नाथ कोविंद का कहना है कि भारतीय संविधान की “धर्म-निरपेक्षता” तथा “विविधता में एकता” की दृष्टि, हमारे सामाजिक-सांस्कृतिक आचरण में अंतर्निहित है। तथ्य यह है कि 1950 से अब तक 75 वर्षों से भी अधिक समय से संविधान सफलतापूर्वक काम कर रहा है, इसे सफल संस्थागत रचना सिद्ध करता है।

हालाँकि, संविधान आधारित एकता के मार्ग में चुनौतियाँ भी हैं जैसे क्षेत्रीय असमर्थता, भाषाई संघर्ष, जाति-भेद, धार्मिक उथल-पुथल आदि। लेकिन इन चुनौतियों का सामना संविधान के मूलतः समावेशी, न्याय-मूलक, भ्रातृत्व-प्रधान सिद्धांतों के द्वारा किया जाता है। उदाहरण के लिए संविधान की मूल “बुनियादी संरचना” में एकता एवं अखण्डता को स्थान मिला है। नागरिकों में इस राजकीय-सामाजिक धारा की समझ बढ़े, विविधता में एकता का भाव गहरा हो और संविधान-निर्देशित मूल्यों को व्यवहार-स्तर पर अपनाया जाए।

भारतीय संविधान केवल एक शासकीय आदेश मात्र नहीं है, यह भारत की आत्मा से आधुनिक भारत को जोड़ने का एक सेतु है जो प्राचीन मूल्यों (करुणा, समता, भ्रातृत्व, विविधता-स्वीकृति) को आधुनिक भारत की संरचना में प्रतिष्ठित करता है। यही कारण है कि संविधान भारतीय-राष्ट्रीय एकता का स्तंभ होने के साथ वैश्विक दृष्टि से परिपक्वता का उदाहरण बन रहा है। तमाम देशों हेतु  भारत का संवैधानिक-मॉडल प्रेरणा-स्त्रोत है। भारतीय संविधान हमारे प्राचीन-आधुनिक दर्शन का प्रतिनिधि, हमारे सामाजिक-शृंखला का अखंड सूत्र और हमारी राष्ट्रीय एकता का अभिभाषक है।

The post भारतीय संविधान: राष्ट्रीय एकता का अभिभाषक appeared first on VisionViksitBharat.

The example of the iPhone is sufficient to understand this truth. The cost of assembling an iPhone in China is around 10–15 dollars, roughly one thousand rupees, while the same phone is sold in the global market for anywhere between seventy thousand and one and a half lakh rupees. A natural question arises: where does the remaining value go? The answer is clear. The iPhone is designed in California, its chips are manufactured in Taiwan, its operating system and software are developed by engineers in countries such as the United States and India and the brand value remains with Western companies. In other words, the real profit goes to the country that thinks, innovates and owns intellectual property, not to the one that merely assembles the product.

The Illusion of Cheap Labour and the Reality of Purchasing Power

For decades, developing countries like India have believed that their greatest strength lies in cheap labour and on this basis, they have defined their role in the global economy. In the initial phase, this strategy did generate employment opportunities, but in the long run the same thinking became one of the biggest reasons for weak purchasing power. When an economy is primarily dependent on low-value activities such as assembly, packaging, or outsourcing, wages naturally remain limited and rapid growth in incomes becomes difficult.

Low income directly affects domestic consumption, leading to weak market demand and a slowdown in the pace of economic growth. The greatest burden of this situation falls on the middle class, which on the one hand struggles with rising inflation and on the other is forced to continually scale down its lifestyle and aspirations due to limited wage growth. In economics, this condition is described as the “middle-income trap,” where a country manages to move out of poverty but remains stuck at the threshold of becoming a developed economy due to the lack of innovation and high-value creation.

Real Wealth Knowledge Not Labour

Renowned economist Thomas Stewart, in his book The Wealth of Knowledge, clearly states that in the economy of the twenty-first century, the real form of capital is not labour or natural resources, but intellectual capital, that is, knowledge, innovation and skills. Today, the countries that are economically prosperous and stable are those that continuously invest in research and development, treat higher education as a national priority and establish leadership in high-value domains such as design, patents, software and brands.

This is precisely why Germany leads in advanced engineering, South Korea in electronics and technology, Japan in high-quality manufacturing and the United States in global innovation. The success of these countries underlines the fact that in the modern economy, real wealth is generated not by the labour of hands, but by the power of the mind.

Why Manufacturing Alone Is Not Enough

Relying solely on manufacturing is no longer sufficient to make a country prosperous in today’s global economy. A well-known study by American researchers Greg Linden, Kenneth Kraemer and Jason Dedrick, Who Profits from Innovation in Global Value Chains, reveals that China’s share in the total value of an iPhone is less than two percent, while most of the profits go to countries that own its design, software and brand. This example clearly shows that control over production and intellectual property matters far more than the sheer volume of production.

This reality is not limited to the mobile phone industry. In every modern sector, fashion, pharmaceuticals, automobiles, semiconductors, artificial intelligence and biotechnology, the leading countries are those that control innovation, not those that merely supply labour.

The Path to a Developed India Education and Innovation

For India, the true path to becoming a developed nation lies through education and innovation. If India genuinely seeks to become a developed country and bring about a substantial increase in the purchasing power of ordinary citizens, policy priorities must shift from merely expanding production to promoting knowledge-based development. At present, India spends only about 0.37 to 0.4 percent of its GDP on higher education and research, which is extremely low by global standards. In contrast, China invests around 1.2 percent and the United States more than 1.7 percent, while the figure is even higher in developed OECD countries.

This gap in investment in education and research ultimately determines which countries will become the creators of future technologies, products and ideas and which will remain merely consumers of innovations developed elsewhere.

Warnings from the World Bank and the United Nations

Global institutions such as the World Bank and the United Nations have repeatedly issued warnings on this issue. The World Bank’s report The Innovation Paradox clearly states that developing countries invest relatively less in innovation and higher education, even though these areas yield the highest returns. Similarly, the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD) and the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) have consistently emphasized that without skill development, research, technical education and a strong startup ecosystem, no country can move beyond the role of a mere consumer in the global economy to become a nation that creates value.

Time to Move from Digital India to Design India

After the achievements of Digital India, the next and far more decisive goal before the country is to move towards “Design India.” India today stands at a historic juncture, with a vast young population, rapidly strengthening digital infrastructure and the active presence of global technology companies. However, merely writing code or providing services does not make a nation a technological superpower. For that, control is required across all four dimensions, design, development, discovery and disruption.

Until India develops its own semiconductors and chips, secures patents for its technologies, transforms its universities into genuine research hubs and builds deep partnerships between industry and academia, the economy will not be able to move towards high-value creation and the purchasing power of the common citizen will remain limited.

The message for policymakers is absolutely clear: if the dream of a truly developed India is to be realized, fundamental changes in thinking and priorities are essential. Education must now be viewed not merely as government expenditure but as a long-term national investment. Innovation should not be limited to startup culture but extended to all sectors, including industry, agriculture, health and governance. In addition, research and development must receive organized and sustained support at both public and private levels. Most importantly, instead of preparing youth merely to seek jobs, they must be empowered to create jobs, innovate and generate value, because the future of any nation depends on the creative capacity of its young generation.

Nations Are Built by Minds, Not Hands

As the world enters the Fourth Industrial Revolution, it becomes clear that nations are built not by the labour of hands but by the power of minds. Low-cost labour may have placed India on the global map, but only innovation and education can make it a master of that map. Today, what is needed is greater investment in minds rather than hands, prioritizing creation over mere manufacturing and moving beyond the mindset of cheap production toward high-value, high-quality creation.

If India is to achieve a real increase in the purchasing power of its citizens and truly become a developed nation, education and innovation must be more than just policy, they must become a national movement. Nations develop not by following the future but by shaping it.

The post From Digital India to Design India to Create, Innovate & Lead the World appeared first on VisionViksitBharat.

As of June 30, 2025, MoFPI has approved 1,134 projects under PMKSY (including 41 Mega Food Parks and 395 Cold Chains), 1,44,517 proposals under PMFME, and 170 projects under PLISFPI to boost India’s food processing sector.

Rural India, which comprises nearly 66 percent of the country’s population, remains the primary source of livelihood for millions. Agriculture and allied sectors alone contributed close to 20 percent to India’s GDP in FY 2023 while employing around 55 percent of the workforce. These figures highlight the undeniable centrality of the rural economy in sustaining India’s growth trajectory.

Looking ahead, the Viksit Bharat 2047 vision projects a gradual structural shift in the economy. Agriculture’s share in GDP is expected to decline to about 12 percent by FY 2047, even as the contribution of industry rises to 34 percent and services stabilize at nearly 54 percent. Such a transition underscores the urgent need to repurpose rural output through higher value-addition pathways. Food processing, in particular, offers a viable solution to absorb rural produce, minimize wastage, and link farmers with expanding domestic and global markets.

The prospects of India’s food economy reinforce this urgency. The Indian food consumption market is projected to touch US$ 1.2 trillion by 2025–26, driven by rapid urbanization, changing dietary patterns, and increasing health consciousness. Importantly, rural demand for packaged and processed products is emerging as a significant growth engine. For six consecutive quarters, rural FMCG consumption outpaced that of urban India, growing nearly twice as fast during April–June 2025. This shift indicates a profound transformation in rural consumer behavior, with processed and value-added products becoming integral to everyday life.

In this context, strengthening the rural economy through modern infrastructure, efficient value chains, and a vibrant food processing ecosystem becomes crucial. A robust rural economy, deeply integrated with national and global markets, will not only ensure inclusive prosperity but also act as a decisive factor in India’s journey towards becoming a developed nation by 2047.

Food Processing: The Engine for Rural Transformation

Economic Contributions & Growth

The food processing sector has emerged as one of the most critical drivers of rural and national economic growth. It contributes nearly 8.80 percent to India’s Gross Value Added (GVA) in manufacturing and 8.39 percent to agriculture, while accounting for 13 percent of India’s total exports. Equally important, it contributes 6 percent of overall industrial investment, underscoring its role as both a domestic growth engine and a global trade catalyst. This dual impact positions the sector as a strategic pillar in India’s economic architecture, particularly for rural transformation where agriculture remains dominant.

In terms of sector size and growth trajectory, the expansion has been both steady and promising. The GVA in food processing increased from ₹1.61 lakh crore (US$ 24.6 billion) in 2015–16 to ₹1.92 lakh crore in 2022–23. Forward-looking estimates suggest that the sector’s value could grow exponentially, touching US$ 1,100 billion by FY 2035, US$ 1,500 billion by FY 2040, and as high as US$ 2,150 billion by FY 2047. This indicates not only the domestic consumption boom but also India’s potential to emerge as a global food processing hub aligned with the goals of Viksit Bharat.

Equally significant is the sector’s contribution to employment and livelihoods. The food processing industry employs about 1.93 million people in registered factories and an additional 5.1 million in the unorganized sector, reflecting its wide labour absorption capacity. Unlike many other industries, food processing creates opportunities at multiple levels of the value chain—from farmgate collection and logistics to packaging, retail, and exports—thus offering broad-based rural employment. The sector also provides a crucial platform for women entrepreneurs and self-help groups, many of whom benefit from government-backed formalization schemes like PMFME.

On the global front, India’s agri- and processed food exports crossed US$ 50 billion in 2022–23, with strong demand for rice, marine products, spices, fruits, and processed dairy. The country has also seen rising exports in ready-to-eat (RTE), ready-to-cook (RTC), and organic food categories, which are increasingly sought after in international markets. India’s ability to scale up in these segments not only enhances its foreign exchange earnings but also ensures that rural farmers gain access to international value chains, thereby fetching higher returns for their produce.

Together, these dimensions, e.g. industrial contribution, sectoral growth, job creation, and export potential, establish food processing as a powerful enabler of rural prosperity. By reducing post-harvest losses, improving shelf life, and promoting value addition, the industry ensures that the economic benefits of agriculture extend well beyond the farm, laying the foundation for a stronger and more inclusive rural economy.

Government Schemes Driving Rural Inclusion

The Government of India has recognized that strengthening the rural economy requires a robust food processing ecosystem, which not only enhances farm incomes but also generates large-scale employment. To achieve this, the Ministry of Food Processing Industries (MoFPI) has launched multiple flagship schemes that directly integrate rural producers with modern markets and global value chains.

Pradhan Mantri Kisan SAMPADA Yojana (PMKSY) has emerged as a cornerstone initiative in this regard. As of June 30, 2025, a total of 1,601 projects had been sanctioned under the scheme, of which 1,133 were completed. These projects collectively benefit nearly 34 lakh farmers and have created processing capacity of 2.56 crore tonnes per year, while also generating 4.33 lakh direct and indirect jobs. In order to further strengthen the scheme, the Union Cabinet recently cleared a budgetary allocation of ₹6,520 crore, including an additional ₹1,920 crore. The expansion plan envisions the creation of 50 irradiation units to improve food safety and extend shelf life, alongside 100 new food testing laboratories to ensure global quality compliance. This not only supports farmers by reducing post-harvest losses but also positions India as a reliable supplier of quality food products in global markets.

Pradhan Mantri Formalisation of Micro Food Processing Enterprises (PMFME) scheme has taken a grassroots approach by targeting micro and small enterprises that form the backbone of India’s rural economy. By June 2025, 144,517 proposals had been approved across the country under PMFME. A striking example of its localized approach is Kushinagar district in Uttar Pradesh, where 261 projects have been sanctioned. Kushinagar has also been earmarked as a Banana Cluster under the Operation Greens initiative, while bananas have been designated as the district’s “One District One Product” (ODOP). This strategy not only creates value chains around local produce but also helps in branding and marketing Indian products domestically and internationally. Importantly, PMFME empowers rural youth, women entrepreneurs, and self-help groups, providing them with credit-linked subsidies, technical training, and formalization opportunities.

Complementing these initiatives, the Production Linked Incentive Scheme for Food Processing Industry (PLISFPI) focuses on scaling India’s food industry to compete on the global stage. With 170 proposals approved as of June 2025, the scheme is being implemented over the 2021–27 period with an outlay of ₹10,900 crore. Its objective is to create “global food manufacturing champions” by incentivizing production, promoting branding of Indian products in international markets, and expanding high-growth segments such as ready-to-eat (RTE), ready-to-cook (RTC), processed fruits, dairy, and marine products. By offering financial incentives tied to production outcomes, the scheme seeks to attract both domestic and foreign investments, thereby creating long-term employment opportunities while driving rural sourcing networks.

Adding to these schemes, World Food India organized in 2017, 2023, and 2024, serves as a premier global platform for investment promotion and technology showcase in the food processing sector. These events bring together global food companies, supply chain operators, innovators, equipment manufacturers, and investors under one roof, facilitating partnerships between Indian enterprises and international stakeholders. For rural India, such platforms are vital, as they connect small producers and clusters with global demand, foreign capital, and modern technology. The ripple effect of these collaborations enhances competitiveness, strengthens rural linkages, and fosters inclusive growth.

Collectively, these government initiatives represent a comprehensive strategy to uplift the rural economy through food processing. While PMKSY creates large-scale infrastructure, PMFME empowers micro enterprises, PLISFPI builds globally competitive champions, and World Food India bridges rural India with international markets. Together, they create a multi-layered ecosystem that transforms agriculture into a value-added, employment-intensive, and export-oriented growth engine, an essential pathway for realizing the vision of Viksit Bharat.

Regional Spotlight: Kushinagar, Uttar Pradesh

Kushinagar, a district with predominantly rural characteristics, has emerged as a model for integrating food processing into local development strategies. Known historically for its agricultural base, the district has been strategically identified for a Banana Cluster under the Operation Greens component of PMKSY. This aligns with the One District One Product (ODOP) framework, which recognizes bananas as a unique crop with high potential for value addition, branding, and export. Under the PMFME scheme, 261 proposals have been approved in Kushinagar as of June 2025, targeting small and micro enterprises for support in processing, packaging, and marketing.

The district demonstrates how localized agricultural strengths, when aligned with central government schemes, can trigger rural transformation. Cold storage facilities, improved logistics, and branding initiatives have already begun to enhance the income of banana farmers. By linking rural farmers with structured markets, Kushinagar highlights the broader policy approach of leveraging local specialization for national competitiveness. This approach is replicable across India, where regional clusters in spices, dairy, fruits, vegetables, and fisheries can anchor local development while feeding into larger global supply chains.

Value Addition, Post-Harvest Loss Reduction and Employment

India loses nearly ₹92,651 crore worth of food annually due to post-harvest losses, according to the Central Institute of Post-Harvest Engineering and Technology (CIPHET). These losses, primarily from perishable commodities like fruits, vegetables, and dairy, reduce farmers’ incomes and weaken food security. The expansion of food processing infrastructure, such as cold chains, irradiation units, modern warehouses, and value-added facilities, plays a critical role in addressing this challenge.

Schemes under PMKSY have already sanctioned hundreds of cold chain projects and 41 Mega Food Parks across the country, creating structured ecosystems where farmers can deliver their produce for processing, packaging, and distribution. Such facilities extend the shelf life of perishable goods, reduce wastage, and ensure that farmers receive better prices for their produce. For example, a mango processed into pulp, juice, or freeze-dried slices can fetch three to five times higher returns compared to its raw form.

In employment terms, food processing is highly labour-intensive, generating jobs not just in production but also in ancillary services such as packaging, logistics, equipment maintenance, and marketing. With every ₹1 crore invested in food processing estimated to create 18–20 direct and indirect jobs, the sector offers one of the highest employment multipliers in rural India. This capacity to combine value addition, loss reduction, and job creation underscores why food processing is pivotal for strengthening the rural economy.

Investment, FDI and Structural Support

Foreign and domestic investment in food processing has accelerated over the past two decades, reflecting confidence in India’s growing consumer base and export potential. Between April 2000 and March 2025, the sector attracted ₹1,12,943 crore (US$ 13.1 billion) in FDI, according to IBEF. India is now among the top global destinations for food and agribusiness investments, with multinational companies as well as domestic champions expanding operations across dairy, beverages, processed fruits, and packaged food.

Policy think tanks such as PHDCCI and Grant Thornton Bharat emphasize that to align with Viksit Bharat 2047 goals, the sector must quadruple its contribution to GVA, targeting around 7.2 percent. This will require a mix of structural support including policy stability, cluster-based infrastructure, quality assurance systems, and trade facilitation. Additionally, the Centre’s push for food safety labs, irradiation units, and export-oriented food parks is designed to address global compliance requirements, making Indian processed food globally competitive.

The government’s focus on structural reforms, including the Agricultural Infrastructure Fund, PM Gati Shakti logistics plan, and PLI schemes, further reinforces the enabling ecosystem. By aligning investments with rural sourcing networks, India is creating a pipeline that connects small farmers to large-scale domestic and international markets.

Rural Demand and Economic Momentum

Rural India, traditionally seen as a supplier of raw produce, is rapidly becoming a major consumption market. Recent industry data indicates that rural FMCG consumption grew twice as fast as urban consumption in April–June 2025, marking the sixth consecutive quarter of outperformance. Rising rural incomes, digital penetration, and aspirational lifestyles are driving greater demand for packaged and processed food. For example, ready-to-eat snacks, dairy-based products, and fortified foods are witnessing strong rural demand.

This consumption boom provides fertile ground for rural-based food processing enterprises. Under the PMFME scheme, micro-entrepreneurs and self-help groups are being formalized into organized businesses, with credit-linked subsidies and skill training. Many rural youth are successfully running small-scale units in dairy, fruit pulp, snacks, and millet-based products, with earning potential ranging between ₹50,000 to ₹1 lakh per month. Beyond income, these enterprises also create local jobs, stimulate allied industries like packaging and logistics, and ensure that rural economies retain a greater share of value addition.

The combined effect of rural consumption growth and entrepreneurship signals a virtuous cycle: as rural households earn more from processing and small businesses, their purchasing power increases, further boosting demand for processed goods. This cycle not only strengthens local economies but also contributes to national growth, making rural India a critical driver of India’s transformation into a developed economy.

The rural economy’s prosperity is not just desirable, it is essential for India’s evolution into Viksit Bharat by 2047. The food processing industry, backed by dynamic government schemes, transformational investments, and thriving rural demand, presents a powerful engine for rural upliftment. By embedding value chains deep into rural India, enhancing infrastructure, and enabling entrepreneurship, India can secure inclusive, resilient, and future-ready growth.

Sources

Press Information Bureau (PIB), Government of India – Updates on PMKSY, PMFME, PLISFPI approvals and achievements. https://pib.gov.in

Ministry of Food Processing Industries (MoFPI) – Official scheme guidelines, project data, and FDI reports. https://mofpi.gov.in

NITI Aayog – Viksit Bharat 2047 Vision – Projections on sectoral contributions (agriculture, industry, services). https://www.niti.gov.in

PHD Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PHDCCI) – Reports on food processing growth trajectory and GVA contribution. https://www.phdcci.in

Grant Thornton Bharat – Studies on employment, exports, and scaling potential of the sector. https://www.grantthornton.in

Brickwork Ratings – Industry analysis of food processing sector’s share in agriculture and manufacturing. https://www.brickworkratings.com

India Brand Equity Foundation (IBEF) – Sector size, projections, exports, FDI inflows. https://www.ibef.org

The Economic Times – Rural FMCG demand, consumption patterns, and industry growth. https://economictimes.indiatimes.com

The Times of India – Government outlays for PMKSY, PMFME impact stories, rural entrepreneurship case studies. https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com

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SPMEPCI: Gateway to a New EV Era

In a landmark move to transform India into a global hub for electric vehicle (EV) manufacturing, the Government of India launched the Scheme to Promote Manufacturing of Electric Passenger Cars in India (SPMEPCI). Officially notified on 15th March 2024, and operationalized with detailed implementation guidelines issued on 2nd June 2025 (Notification No. S.O. 2450(E)), the scheme reflects a bold and forward-looking approach to accelerating India’s transition toward sustainable mobility. The government has opened the application portal (spmepci.heavyindustries.gov.in) to receive proposals from global and domestic automotive giants. Applications are being accepted between 24th June 2025 and 21st October 2025. The window offers an opportunity for leading EV manufacturers to participate in shaping India’s next-generation mobility ecosystem, while benefiting from a suite of policy incentives and regulatory clarity.

At the core of SPMEPCI is the objective to build a vibrant and competitive EV manufacturing ecosystem within India. To this end, the scheme mandates a minimum investment of ₹4,150 crore per approved applicant, ensuring that only serious and committed players are onboarded. This investment will not only enhance domestic production capacities but also create employment, upskill the workforce, and foster technological collaboration across the value chain. To catalyze early market penetration and facilitate technology transfer, the scheme provides for customs duty concessions on a limited number of high-value electric vehicle imports. This incentive is strategically designed to allow companies to test and build their market presence in India while simultaneously setting up local manufacturing facilities. Such a mechanism helps strike a balance between opening up the market and safeguarding long-term indigenous interests.

A unique feature of the scheme is its emphasis on Domestic Value Addition (DVA) targets. These targets ensure that over time, companies must increase the proportion of components and systems manufactured locally, encouraging the development of a deep domestic supply chain. The focus on DVA is aligned with India’s broader goals of self-reliance and global competitiveness in the green mobility sector. SPMEPCI is more than just an industrial incentive program, it is a strategic gateway into a new era of clean, green, and globally competitive mobility. By blending global capital with local capability, the scheme promises to redefine India’s role in the global electric vehicle landscape, positioning it not just as a consumer market but as a formidable manufacturing base for the world.

Key Features of the Scheme

The Scheme to Promote Manufacturing of Electric Passenger Cars in India (SPMEPCI) introduces a set of well-calibrated features aimed at balancing short-term market incentives with long-term industrial development. Each component of the scheme has been thoughtfully designed to support global and domestic manufacturers while ensuring that India builds a robust, self-reliant EV ecosystem.

One of the most attractive elements of the scheme is the import concession for Completely Built Units (CBUs) of electric four-wheelers. Manufacturers will be allowed to import EVs with a minimum Cost, Insurance, and Freight (CIF) value of $35,000 at a concessional customs duty rate of 15%, which is significantly lower than the prevailing rate of 70% to 100%. This reduced rate will be applicable for a period of five years. The purpose of this provision is to help approved applicants establish an initial customer base and brand presence in India, while concurrently setting up local manufacturing operations. To ensure that only serious, long-term players participate in the scheme, the government has set a minimum investment threshold of ₹4,150 crore, or approximately $500 million. This requirement signals a strategic commitment to capital-intensive capacity creation and deters opportunistic or low-scale ventures from entering the market under the scheme’s ambit.

Crucially, the scheme also lays down Domestic Value Addition (DVA) milestones, which are both mandatory and progressive in nature. Over the years, participants must meet increasing targets for local sourcing, component manufacturing, and value creation within India. These DVA requirements are intended to foster deep supply chain localization, encourage technology transfer, and build indigenous capability, not just in assembly, but across design, electronics, battery systems, and software integration. The application window for companies to express their interest and submit proposals is open from 24th June 2025 to 21st October 2025. This defined period provides ample time for potential applicants to prepare detailed investment and localization roadmaps, ensuring transparency and competitiveness in the selection process.

The long-term objective of SPMEPCI is to firmly position India as a trusted global EV manufacturing hub. Through a combination of incentives, regulatory support, and ecosystem development, the scheme aims to make India not just an attractive consumer market, but a pivotal player in the global electric mobility value chain.

Strategic Significance to Push Viksit Bharat @2047

The Scheme to Promote Manufacturing of Electric Passenger Cars in India (SPMEPCI) is more than a policy intervention, it is a strategic enabler of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision of Viksit Bharat by 2047, a future-ready India that is economically strong, environmentally sustainable, and globally competitive. The scheme intersects with multiple national priorities, serving as a transformative force for India’s industrial, environmental, and technological future.

At the forefront is the goal of green mobility. By incentivizing the local manufacturing and adoption of electric vehicles, the scheme directly contributes to India’s broader climate commitments, including the ambitious target of achieving Net Zero carbon emissions by 2070, as announced at the COP26 summit in Glasgow. With transportation accounting for a significant share of urban pollution and fossil fuel consumption, a rapid shift to electric vehicles under this scheme will help reduce India’s carbon footprint while also decreasing dependency on imported crude oil. In terms of socio-economic impact, employment generation emerges as a major benefit. According to NITI Aayog projections, the EV industry has the potential to create over 10 million direct and indirect jobs by 2030, spanning sectors such as auto component manufacturing, battery production, charging infrastructure, software development, and maintenance services. SPMEPCI is designed to catalyze this employment surge by drawing in large-scale investments and promoting capacity building across the ecosystem.

Another key dimension of the scheme is its role in facilitating technology transfer and R&D development. By attracting leading global EV manufacturers to set up operations in India, the policy paves the way for the domestic industry, particularly Indian OEMs and Tier-1 suppliers to gain exposure to advanced electric vehicle platforms, engineering practices, and quality standards. This inflow of expertise is expected to elevate the innovation quotient of India’s auto sector and accelerate the localization of next-generation technologies, including solid-state batteries, power electronics, and vehicle telematics. On the investment front, the scheme is poised to unlock substantial foreign direct investment (FDI). With India’s EV market expected to attract over $20 billion in cumulative investments by 2030, SPMEPCI provides a clear and structured framework for global capital to flow into India’s green mobility transition. By offering predictability, regulatory support, and tariff incentives, the policy enhances India’s attractiveness as a long-term investment destination.

Crucially, the scheme aligns with the ethos of Atmanirbhar Bharat by mandating Domestic Value Addition (DVA) targets. These milestones will ensure that critical components, such as battery packs, electric motors, semiconductor modules, powertrains, and software systems, are increasingly sourced and manufactured within India. This focus on local supply chain development will reduce import dependence, strengthen strategic autonomy, and enable Indian firms to integrate into global value chains as competitive players. In essence, SPMEPCI is not just about making electric cars, it is about making India future-ready. It accelerates India’s journey toward energy security, economic self-reliance, environmental stewardship, and high-tech industrial capability. As the country marches toward 2047, this scheme stands as a vital building block in realizing the aspiration of a Viksit Bharat, prosperous, inclusive, and globally respected.

Why Global Giants Are Taking Notice

India’s electric vehicle (EV) sector is rapidly transforming from a promising market to a global strategic priority. Already recognized as the world’s third-largest automobile market, having surpassed Japan in 2023, India’s appeal is no longer just about scale, it is about timing, trajectory, and policy-backed momentum. The opportunity lies not just in serving a growing domestic demand, but in shaping the next frontier of global mobility from within India.

The electric vehicle segment, in particular, is witnessing unprecedented growth potential. According to projections by the India Energy Storage Alliance (IESA), India’s EV market is set to expand at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 49%, reaching over 10 million annual EV sales by 2030. This explosive growth is driven by a unique combination of factors: urbanization, climate commitments, rising fuel costs, and a young, tech-savvy consumer base that is increasingly open to sustainable mobility solutions. What makes the Indian market even more compelling for international automakers is the predictability and policy clarity introduced through initiatives like the Scheme to Promote Manufacturing of Electric Passenger Cars in India (SPMEPCI). By offering customs duty concessions, clearly defined investment thresholds, and domestic value addition targets, the scheme creates a stable regulatory environment—a factor that is often the deciding element for long-term capital investment decisions in emerging markets.

These policy signals have not gone unnoticed. Global original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) such as Tesla, BYD, Hyundai, Volkswagen, and Toyota have either announced plans or are actively evaluating strategic entries and expansions into the Indian EV space. Tesla, for instance, has been in high-level talks with Indian authorities regarding setting up a manufacturing base, while BYD has already begun assembling EVs in India and is ramping up its presence. Hyundai and Kia are scaling up EV offerings and local R&D, and Volkswagen and Toyota are exploring India as both a manufacturing base and export hub. India’s growing digital public infrastructure, competitive labor costs, and improving logistics networks further add to its attractiveness. Combined with the large domestic demand and rising global interest in China+1 manufacturing strategies, India emerges as a natural alternative and complementary hub for global EV supply chains.

In essence, India is no longer just a market to sell to, it is a platform to build from. For global auto giants, SPMEPCI offers the right mix of market access, operational incentives, and strategic alignment with the green future of mobility. As the global EV race intensifies, India is clearly in the driver’s seat—not just as a destination, but as a decisive force in the next chapter of automotive history.

Modi Government’s 360-Degree EV Push

The Scheme to Promote Manufacturing of Electric Passenger Cars in India (SPMEPCI) is not an isolated policy, it is part of a well-orchestrated, 360-degree national strategy to catalyze India’s transition to electric mobility. The Modi government has carefully constructed a multi-layered framework where fiscal incentives, industrial policy, innovation funding, and state-level alignment converge to create a fertile ecosystem for EV growth. The synergy among these policies reflects not just administrative coordination, but a strategic vision to make India a global EV powerhouse.

A major pillar in this ecosystem is FAME-II (Faster Adoption and Manufacturing of Hybrid and Electric Vehicles), which was launched with an outlay of ₹10,000 crore. FAME-II primarily targets the demand side of the EV equation, offering purchase subsidies for electric two-wheelers, three-wheelers, four-wheelers, and buses. By reducing the upfront cost burden on consumers and fleet operators, the scheme is helping build market demand that manufacturing incentives like SPMEPCI can respond to. On the supply side, the government has rolled out two major Production Linked Incentive (PLI) schemes. The PLI-Auto scheme, with an allocation of ₹25,938 crore, incentivizes advanced automotive technology components and new-age vehicle manufacturing, including electric and hydrogen-based vehicles. Complementing this is the PLI-ACC (Advanced Chemistry Cell) Battery Storage scheme, with a budget of ₹18,100 crore, which focuses on building large-scale battery manufacturing facilities—an essential input for the success of any EV strategy. Together, these schemes address both the vehicle and energy storage components of the EV value chain, making India investment-ready for next-gen mobility solutions.

Another foundational element is the National Electric Mobility Mission Plan (NEMMP), an early policy framework that laid the groundwork for EV adoption in India. It emphasized R&D investment, public-private partnerships, and the development of charging infrastructure. Although launched in a previous phase, its principles continue to guide long-term roadmap planning and infrastructure development under the current regime. At the sub-national level, several proactive state governments have launched their own EV policies, creating additional incentives and infrastructure support. Tamil Nadu, Maharashtra, Gujarat, and Uttar Pradesh stand out for their forward-thinking approaches, including capital subsidies, land support, tax rebates, and facilitation of battery and component clusters. These states are emerging as regional EV manufacturing hubs, creating healthy competition and localized opportunities for investment.

When viewed collectively, these national and state-level initiatives form a comprehensive policy arc, from import facilitation and purchase subsidies to localized manufacturing and global competitiveness. SPMEPCI fits neatly into this puzzle, acting as the bridge between early-stage market seeding and long-term industrial transformation. By ensuring policy continuity, cross-sector alignment, and a unified regulatory approach, the Modi government has created more than just a favorable business environment, it has laid the foundation for a self-sustaining, innovation-driven, and globally integrated electric mobility ecosystem. This is what gives India’s EV push not just scale, but substance.

The SPMEPCI scheme is emblematic of the Modi Government’s shift from incremental policy changes to bold, quantum-level economic transformation. It combines economic pragmatism with visionary ambition, a hallmark of India’s policy journey in the last decade.

As India accelerates toward Viksit Bharat @2047, initiatives like SPMEPCI will act as catalysts, ushering in clean mobility, high-end manufacturing, and inclusive economic growth. It’s a testament to the Modi Government’s belief that sustainability, self-reliance, and scale are not mutually exclusive but mutually reinforcing.

References & Data Sources

• Ministry of Heavy Industries: Scheme Guidelines

• NITI Aayog & Rocky Mountain Institute Reports

• India Energy Storage Alliance (IESA) Market Reports

• Ministry of Commerce & DPIIT Investment Data

• COP26 India Commitments (UNFCCC)

• Auto PLI & FAME-II Implementation Dashboards

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The transformation of rural women from beneficiaries to business leaders under the Modi government’s SHG-centered policies is a socio-economic shift for a vision of Viksit Bharat. With structural support, private partnerships, and visionary programs like DAY-NRLM, India is ensuring that the Ease of Doing Business doesn’t stop at metros, but reaches every mahila mandal and gram panchayat. The next unicorns may not emerge from Silicon Valley or Gurgaon, but from the collective strength of empowered Didis, redefining enterprise in their own language, land, and leadership.

Over the last decade, the Government of India, under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, has redefined the concept of poverty alleviation. It is no longer viewed merely as welfare, but as a pathway to wealth creation. Nowhere is this more evident than in the transformation of Self-Help Groups (SHGs) under the Deendayal Antyodaya Yojana, National Rural Livelihoods Mission (DAY-NRLM).

What began as a community-based model of savings and credit has evolved into a massive rural entrepreneurship movement. As of 2024, more than 9.5 crore women have been mobilized into SHGs. From small-scale producers to enterprise leaders, SHG women, now popularly known as Lakhpati Didis, are emerging as key drivers of economic inclusion, local production, and sustainable development. The Ease of Doing Business (EoDB) for SHG members is now being reimagined. The focus has shifted from urban regulatory frameworks to rural grassroots realities. This includes improving market access, facilitating credit linkage, building brand identity, enhancing digital literacy, and ensuring strong convergence with the private sector.

Modi Government’s Enterprise-Led Poverty Reduction

In 2022, Prime Minister Narendra Modi articulated a transformative vision when he declared that “every village should have its own Lakhpati Didis.” This idea has become a symbol of self-reliance and rural prosperity. The government’s plan, announced in the Union Budget 2024, to create two crore Lakhpati Didis by the year 2027 reflects a significant policy shift. It moves away from a model of subsidy-based support toward one that focuses on entrepreneurship-driven empowerment.

Reinforcing this vision, the Prime Minister stated in his Mann Ki Baat address in January 2023, “We are not just fighting poverty, we are investing in capability. The SHG women are India’s new economic leaders.” These words reflect a deep commitment to building a development model in which rural women are not just aided, but elevated as central contributors to India’s economic future. Under the Deendayal Antyodaya Yojana – National Rural Livelihoods Mission (DAY-NRLM), the scope of intervention has expanded. The focus now includes formalizing rural enterprises through registration, tax compliance, and improved business practices. It also emphasizes the creation of business-friendly ecosystems that provide easier credit access, digital inclusion, and mentorship.

DAY-NRLM is further working to establish collective supply chains, unified branding, and logistics support to help SHG products compete in larger markets. Efforts are underway to integrate SHG members into public procurement systems and even international trade networks. This comprehensive approach empowers women at the grassroots to become producers, entrepreneurs, and exporters, driving inclusive and sustainable growth.

From Informal Work to Structured Business: The Numbers Tell the Story

The transformation of Self-Help Groups (SHGs) in India over the past decade has been both quantitative and qualitative. Under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the SHG ecosystem has transitioned from an informal community movement to a structured and scalable business network that is contributing meaningfully to India’s rural economy.

In 2014, the total number of women associated with SHGs stood at approximately 2.9 crore. By June 2024, this figure had more than tripled, reaching a remarkable 9.5 crore women across the country. This massive mobilization represents one of the largest gender-centric economic movements in the world, turning rural households into hubs of productivity and entrepreneurship. Credit access has also seen a significant leap. In 2014, the total bank credit linkage for SHGs was around ₹25,000 crore. By 2024, it had expanded sevenfold, with SHGs availing over ₹1.75 lakh crore in cumulative bank credit. This financial deepening has enabled SHG members to move beyond subsistence-level income activities into structured micro-enterprises.

Back in 2014, the number of SHGs actively running micro-enterprises was less than one lakh. Today, more than 5.2 lakh SHGs are engaged in enterprise development across diverse sectors such as food processing, textiles, handicrafts, organic farming, and services. These enterprises are not only supporting local economies but are also generating employment and enhancing rural consumption. Product visibility and market access have similarly improved. Prior to 2014, there was no centralized platform like SARAS Gallery to showcase SHG products. By 2024, over 3,500 unique product lines have been catalogued and promoted through SARAS outlets and exhibitions, offering SHG members a channel to reach urban and institutional buyers.

Digital inclusion has been another hallmark of this transformation. In 2014, digital onboarding of SHGs for e-commerce was negligible. Today, more than 10,000 SHGs have an active presence on platforms such as Government eMarketplace (GeM), Flipkart, Amazon, and the Open Network for Digital Commerce (ONDC). This digital leap has given rural women access to national and even global consumer bases, elevating their confidence and income levels. These numbers, backed by reports from the Ministry of Rural Development and data cited in the 2024–25 Budget Speech, offer compelling evidence of how the government has shifted the rural development paradigm. What was once a savings-led informal collective is now a rising pillar of India’s economy—structured, financed, connected, and future-ready.

Breaking Barriers: Addressing Challenges in Doing Business for SHGs

Despite the remarkable rise of Self-Help Group (SHG) enterprises across India, several persistent challenges continue to limit their growth potential. These challenges were extensively discussed during a high-level 360-degree consultation convened by the Ministry of Rural Development (MoRD) in July 2024 in New Delhi. The meeting brought together a diverse coalition of stakeholders from both the public and private sectors. Participants included leading institutions and corporations such as India Post, Flipkart, Fab India, ITC Limited, National Institute of Fashion Technology (NIFT), Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation (BMGF), Women on Wings, Rangsutra, Transform Rural India (TRI), Reliance Foundation, and others with extensive grassroots experience.

One of the foremost issues identified was the absence of a standardized and SHG-friendly quality certification mechanism. While SHGs produce a wide variety of goods, the lack of quality assurance systems often makes it difficult for their products to gain the trust of institutional buyers or scale up to formal retail networks. The challenge is to introduce quality protocols that are rigorous yet accessible, without overwhelming the rural producers with complex compliance demands. Another major concern raised was the difficulty SHGs face in scaling production while maintaining community ownership and participatory governance. The very strength of SHGs lies in their decentralized, inclusive model, but this often becomes a constraint when bulk orders or consistent supply timelines are required by corporate buyers. A balance needs to be struck between preserving the community fabric and professionalizing operations.

Digital inclusion emerged as a third critical challenge. Many SHG members have limited digital literacy and minimal exposure to customer relationship management tools, e-commerce interfaces, and data analytics. This digital divide prevents them from maximizing the benefits of selling through online platforms like Flipkart, Amazon, or ONDC, despite the government’s efforts to onboard them. The consultation also highlighted infrastructure gaps, particularly in rural areas. Many SHGs struggle with inadequate facilities for modern packaging, cold storage, warehousing, and last-mile logistics. Without these critical enablers, even high-quality products fail to reach markets in a timely and cost-effective manner.

Finally, participants pointed out the lack of a cohesive national brand identity for SHG products. While initiatives like SARAS Gallery have provided a starting point, the absence of a unified branding framework makes it difficult to communicate the authenticity, social impact, and quality of SHG-made goods to urban and global consumers. The consultation concluded with the shared understanding that these barriers are not insurmountable. With the right convergence of policy support, private sector partnership, and capacity building, SHG entrepreneurs can overcome these constraints and play a defining role in the journey toward a self-reliant and inclusive Viksit Bharat.

Policy Innovations Enabling Ease of Doing Business for SHGs

The Modi government has introduced a comprehensive set of reforms aimed at enhancing the Ease of Doing Business (EoDB) for Self-Help Groups (SHGs), turning them into vibrant engines of rural entrepreneurship. These reforms rest on three key pillars: institutional convergence, digital integration, and market-oriented solutions. Collectively, they are transforming the landscape in which SHG women operate, providing them with tools to compete in national and even global markets.

a) SARAS and National SHG Branding: A cornerstone of this transformation is the institutionalization of SARAS Gallery and the SARAS Aajeevika Melas. These flagship platforms are now facilitating pan-India visibility and sales opportunities for SHG products. Beyond these events, the government is working to create a national SHG brand architecture. This includes efforts to standardize packaging, implement barcoding systems, establish quality control protocols, and craft compelling product narratives that communicate the authenticity and impact of rural entrepreneurship to wider markets.

b) Public Procurement Reform: Public procurement reform is another powerful lever of change. SHGs have been granted eligibility to sell directly on the Government e-Marketplace (GeM) platform under reserved categories, providing a consistent and transparent procurement channel. As of 2024, over 10,000 SHGs are actively selling on GeM, supported by special onboarding mechanisms facilitated by the National Rural Livelihoods Mission (NRLM). This has enabled SHG enterprises to access government buyers without middlemen and build consistent revenue streams.

c) Digital Infrastructure and E-commerce: Digital empowerment is being advanced through integration with flagship schemes like PM Vishwakarma and Digital India. SHGs are now being trained and connected to major e-commerce platforms such as ONDC, Flipkart Samarth, and Amazon Saheli. Innovations such as digital customer relationship management tools, QR code-based product tagging, and real-time inventory dashboards are being piloted to help SHGs manage operations efficiently and professionally. These tools are bridging the digital divide and enabling rural entrepreneurs to tap into modern trade networks.

d) Credit and Capital Linkage: Credit and skill development remain foundational to this ecosystem. SHGs can now avail of collateral-free loans up to ₹20 lakh, with interest subvention benefits reaching up to 5 percent under the SHG Credit Scheme. Additionally, financial linkages are being reinforced through convergence with schemes like MUDRA Loans and the Prime Minister’s Employment Generation Programme (PMEGP). On the skilling front, the Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship (MSDE) has collaborated with NRLM for targeted capacity building under programs like SANKALP and STRIVE. Partnerships with private sector players such as DeHaat, Shahi Exports, and JayKay Enterprises are also bringing real-world mentorship to SHGs, helping them align products with market needs and ensure long-term sustainability.

SHGs and Viksit Bharat: The Macro Vision

The transformation of Self-Help Groups (SHGs) into structured rural enterprises is a central pillar of India’s development strategy. It aligns with the national vision of Viksit Bharat @2047, which aspires to create a self-reliant, globally competitive, and inclusive economy. SHGs are no longer just support groups. They are becoming strategic economic units contributing to national productivity, rural employment, and community-led development.

The government’s intent is to ensure that every woman entrepreneur becomes a producer, innovator, and decision-maker. From home-based food processing to textile production, from running digital kiosks to managing logistics, SHG women are taking ownership of their economic futures. They are shifting from being passive recipients of schemes to active stakeholders in India’s growth story.

Rural economies are also being equipped with digital tools, financial literacy, and e-commerce access. Through integrations with platforms like Government e-Marketplace (GeM), Open Network for Digital Commerce (ONDC), Amazon Saheli, and Flipkart Samarth, SHG enterprises are connecting directly with buyers across the country. These digital enablers reduce dependence on middlemen and enhance price realization for rural producers.

The broader goal is to embed locally made goods into global value chains. With support for packaging, barcoding, branding, and certification, SHG products are being readied for urban and international markets. This means that handcrafted baskets from tribal belts, millet-based snacks from rural kitchens, and eco-friendly garments are all gaining visibility on digital shelves and export catalogues.

Ms. Swati Sharma, Joint Secretary at the Ministry of Rural Development, summarized this shift during the July 2024 stakeholder consultation. She stated that SHGs are not just community groups but enterprise clusters of tomorrow. Empowering them is no longer viewed as charity or welfare. It is now recognized as economic nation-building, firmly placing SHGs at the heart of India’s journey towards becoming a developed nation by 2047.

The transformation of rural women from beneficiaries to business leaders under the Modi government’s SHG-centered policies is a socio-economic shift for a vision of Viksit Bharat. With structural support, private partnerships, and visionary programs like DAY-NRLM, India is ensuring that the Ease of Doing Business doesn’t stop at metros, but reaches every mahila mandal and gram panchayat. The next unicorns may not emerge from Silicon Valley or Gurgaon, but from the collective strength of empowered Didis, redefining enterprise in their own language, land, and leadership.

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1.Quantum vs Incremental Change: Defining the Modi Approach

India’s economic governance has long been shaped by an incrementalist tradition, marked by cautious policy experimentation, fragmented reforms, and a top-heavy bureaucracy. This approach, while stable, often failed to address structural bottlenecks or anticipate the speed of global economic transformations. The Modi government broke decisively from this tradition. Instead of merely tinkering with legacy systems, it embraced what may be termed a quantum policy shift—bold, holistic, and future-oriented.

One of the most visible illustrations of this shift is the launch of PM Gati Shakti, a national master plan for infrastructure development. Recognizing that logistics inefficiencies were eroding India’s competitiveness, the government introduced an integrated approach combining transport, power, and digital infrastructure projects across ministries. The aim was not simply to build physical assets, but to ensure multimodal synergy, time-bound execution, and data-driven coordination. This marked a transition from scattered infrastructure initiatives to a unified, mission-mode execution framework.

Simultaneously, the Digital India campaign reimagined the role of the state by embedding technology at the heart of governance. Instead of treating digitization as a cosmetic upgrade, the government positioned it as a fundamental delivery mechanism. From rural broadband connectivity to real-time telemedicine via e-Sanjeevani and citizen services through apps like UMANG, India saw the emergence of a scalable and accessible digital public infrastructure. DigiLocker and e-Governance platforms reflect the deep institutionalization of this digital-first mindset.

A cornerstone of the Modi model has been the integration of fiscal transparency and financial inclusion through the JAM trinity, Jan Dhan bank accounts, Aadhaar biometric identity, and mobile penetration. Together, these three instruments created a direct, secure, and inclusive interface between the government and citizens. What was once a leak-prone welfare system became a streamlined and accountable channel for real-time cash transfers, reducing corruption and delivering benefits more efficiently.

This infrastructure enabled the success of the Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) architecture and programs like the PM Garib Kalyan Yojana, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic. Instead of navigating a complex web of intermediaries, millions received subsidies, pensions, and food assistance directly into their accounts. The impact was not just financial, it redefined the relationship between the state and its poorest citizens by making welfare predictable, personalized, and prompt.

Perhaps the most strategic shift has occurred in the domain of industrial policy. Moving away from passive liberalization, the Modi government has adopted a bold, active strategy through the Production-Linked Incentive (PLI) schemes. These initiatives target key sectors such as semiconductors, electronics, pharmaceuticals, and renewables, where India seeks to achieve global competitiveness. By linking performance-based subsidies to measurable outcomes, the government has incentivized private investment and helped catalyze the emergence of India as a credible manufacturing hub.

The hallmark of the Modi approach lies not merely in the ambition of individual schemes, but in their interconnected design. Infrastructure is linked with logistics policy; welfare delivery is tied to financial inclusion; digitization feeds into service accessibility and fiscal transparency. This systems-thinking approach contrasts sharply with the piecemeal reforms of the past and reflects a paradigm shift from state control to state capacity.

In sum, the Modi government has institutionalized a new model of governance that combines scale, speed, and synergy, redefining the role of the Indian state from a controller to an enabler of economic transformation.

 2.Building a $5 Trillion Economy: Milestones and Momentum

Union Minister Shri Piyush Goyal recently reaffirmed the Modi government’s confidence in achieving a $5 trillion GDP target by FY 2027, an economic milestone that reflects not just ambition, but structured policy momentum. Multiple global think tanks have lent credibility to this trajectory, underscoring India’s growing weight in the world economy. According to a 2023 report by Goldman Sachs, India could become the world’s second-largest economy by 2075, overtaking economic giants like the U.S. and China in the longer term, primarily due to favorable demographics, sustained reforms, and digital infrastructure development. Similarly, Morgan Stanley predicts India’s GDP will reach $7.5 trillion by 2031, driven by rapid advances in manufacturing, the deepening of digitization, and fast-paced urbanization that is transforming India’s economic landscape.

The World Bank, in its latest assessment, recognizes India as the fastest-growing major economy, projecting a 6.6% GDP growth in FY 2025, well above the global average, supported by resilient domestic consumption, improving logistics, and prudent fiscal management. As of FY 2024, India’s GDP has already touched $3.73 trillion, overtaking the United Kingdom to become the fifth-largest economy globally. This progress is anchored in robust macroeconomic fundamentals, including foreign exchange reserves exceeding $650 billion, a strong buffer against global uncertainties. Inflation remains well within control at approximately 3%, despite volatile commodity markets and geopolitical tensions. Additionally, strong capital inflows—both in foreign direct investment and portfolio investment, have reinforced global investor confidence in India’s long-term prospects, while an expanding formal economy, aided by digitization and GST-led transparency, has added to the macroeconomic strength.

Beyond the numbers, this transformation is visible in the structural shifts underway, from a consumption-driven model to one increasingly focused on investment, innovation, and infrastructure. Strategic policy frameworks such as the Production Linked Incentive (PLI) schemes, PM Gati Shakti, and the National Monetization Pipeline are accelerating capital formation and job creation across key sectors. The convergence of political will, policy continuity, and demographic advantage is making the $5 trillion goal not just a visionary slogan, but a definable national objective. If current momentum is maintained, India will not only meet this milestone but also emerge as a key driver of global growth in the decades ahead.

3. Institutionalizing Good Governance (Sushasan)

The Modi era has marked a decisive shift in the architecture of governance in India, moving from fragmented, opaque, and rent-seeking structures toward a more transparent, accountable, and digitally empowered state. At the heart of this transformation lies a consistent push to institutionalize “Sushasan”, good governance, through structural reforms, technological integration, and citizen-centric service delivery. One of the most significant reforms in this direction has been the implementation of the Goods and Services Tax (GST), which replaced a complex web of state and central taxes with a unified tax regime. This has not only helped create a common national market but also significantly improved tax compliance, broadened the tax base, and formalized large sections of the economy.

Complementing fiscal reforms, the introduction of the Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code (IBC) has been a landmark move in strengthening financial discipline and credit culture. For the first time, India has a time-bound and transparent mechanism to resolve corporate distress and reduce the burden of non-performing assets (NPAs) on the banking system. To address India’s chronic infrastructure bottlenecks, the government launched PM Gati Shakti, a digital infrastructure masterplan that integrates the working of 16 ministries. This initiative leverages real-time geospatial data to streamline logistics, reduce project delays, and ensure synchronized planning and implementation—an unprecedented move toward governance efficiency in infrastructure delivery.

In parallel, the government has made substantial efforts to enhance the Ease of Doing Business, enabling India to leapfrog from the 142nd position in 2014 to 63rd in the World Bank rankings by 2020. Reforms in areas such as construction permits, insolvency resolution, cross-border trade, and digitized approvals have made the business ecosystem more attractive for investors. Furthering this objective is the National Single Window System (NSWS), which serves as a centralized investment clearance portal for businesses. This platform simplifies regulatory processes by offering over 100 approvals across 27 central departments and 19 state governments in a single digital interface, reducing bureaucratic hurdles and discretionary decision-making.

These reforms have not gone unnoticed on the global stage. The World Economic Forum has acknowledged India as a model for agile and tech-driven governance in the Global South—highlighting how digital tools like Aadhaar, JAM Trinity (Jan Dhan-Aadhaar-Mobile), and Direct Benefit Transfers (DBT) have empowered citizens while curbing leakages and corruption. India’s evolving governance model is not merely administrative modernization—it is a strategic transformation aimed at building a responsive state that delivers efficiently, transparently, and inclusively. This institutionalization of good governance lays the foundation for a Viksit Bharat, where citizens are stakeholders in a reformed and digitally connected system.

4. Innovation as Economic Driver (Navachar)

Innovation has emerged as a central pillar of India’s economic transformation under the Modi government, with a clear shift from incremental reforms to disruptive, scalable, and tech-powered solutions. The state is no longer just a facilitator, it is actively nurturing an ecosystem where innovation thrives across sectors, from digital infrastructure to advanced manufacturing and deep-tech.

One of the most remarkable success stories is India’s startup revolution. In 2016, India had barely 450 recognized startups. By 2024, this number has exploded to over 1 lakh registered startups, according to the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT). This exponential growth has been catalyzed by enabling policies such as Startup India, simplified compliance norms, seed funding support, and a cultural shift toward entrepreneurship. As a result, India now boasts over 110 unicorns, making it the third-largest startup ecosystem globally, behind only the U.S. and China.

Complementing this entrepreneurial surge is the government’s renewed push toward Research and Development (R&D). The creation of the National Research Foundation (NRF), with a proposed outlay of ₹50,000 crore, represents a landmark initiative to integrate academia, industry, and government around high-impact scientific research. This will drive innovation not just in digital technologies, but also in climate resilience, health tech, biotech, and clean energy, sectors critical to India’s long-term strategic autonomy. India’s Production Linked Incentive (PLI) schemes, with an allocation of ₹2 lakh crore across 14 strategic sectors, are another innovation-driven instrument. These schemes are designed to not only boost domestic manufacturing but also incentivize the adoption of new-age technologies, automation, and global supply chain integration in sectors such as electronics, pharmaceuticals, drones, electric vehicles, and textiles.

Recognizing the importance of technological sovereignty, the government has also launched the Semiconductor Mission, backed by ₹76,000 crore in funding, to develop a robust domestic chip ecosystem. This includes fabrication units, design capabilities, and packaging infrastructure, essential for reducing dependence on global supply chains and strengthening national security. Perhaps the most visible demonstration of India’s innovation-led governance is its suite of Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI) tools. Platforms like Unified Payments Interface (UPI), Open Network for Digital Commerce (ONDC), DigiLocker, and CoWIN have not only revolutionized service delivery but also provided scalable models for other countries. UPI alone now handles billions of transactions monthly, setting a global benchmark for real-time, low-cost digital payments. ONDC is reshaping e-commerce by enabling level playing fields, while CoWIN became a global case study in efficient, transparent vaccine distribution.

Together, these developments reflect a profound shift: Innovation is no longer a peripheral aspiration—it is a core strategy for India’s economic emergence. From startups to semiconductors, from public digital goods to frontier R&D, the Modi government’s commitment to “Navachar” is unlocking new engines of productivity, competitiveness, and global relevance.

4. Inclusive and Sustainable Growth: No One Left Behind

India’s economic transformation under Prime Minister Narendra Modi has not been confined to macroeconomic growth alone, it has also been rooted in the philosophy of “Antyodaya”, or the upliftment of the last person in the queue. The government’s development model emphasizes inclusion, equity, and sustainability, ensuring that growth reaches every household, village, and marginalised segment. A cornerstone of this inclusive vision is PM Awas Yojana (PMAY), which has facilitated the construction of over 4 crore pucca houses, providing not just shelter but dignity and security to millions of low-income families. With women often listed as primary homeowners, the scheme also serves as a quiet revolution in women’s empowerment and financial inclusion.

Health security has been another key pillar of this inclusive agenda. Ayushman Bharat, the world’s largest health insurance scheme, now covers nearly 50 crore individuals, providing annual coverage of ₹5 lakh per family for secondary and tertiary care. This has shielded millions of vulnerable households from catastrophic health expenditures and ensured access to quality healthcare in both urban and rural areas. The Jal Jeevan Mission has transformed lives by bringing tap water connections to over 13 crore rural households. In a country where women and children often walked miles to fetch water, this mission has significantly reduced drudgery, improved sanitation, and enhanced health outcomes, laying the foundation for improved human capital in the long run.

Similarly, the Ujjwala Yojana, which has distributed 9.6 crore free LPG connections, has had far-reaching socio-economic impacts. It has drastically reduced indoor air pollution, improved maternal and child health, and saved time for women, enabling greater participation in income-generating activities. These benefits go far beyond fuel—they symbolize a shift toward cleaner, healthier, and more empowered households. Together, these flagship social infrastructure initiatives are not just welfare programs; they are productive assets that enhance the capacity of citizens to contribute to and benefit from economic growth. By addressing basic human needs, housing, health, water, and clean energy, the Modi government has laid the groundwork for sustainable, consumption-led development.

Moreover, this inclusive growth framework is environmentally conscious. Schemes promoting solar energy, LED adoption, and electric mobility are ensuring that progress is aligned with climate goals. In this model, inclusion is not a cost but a multiplier, fueling demand, building resilience, and preparing India for a just, green transition. In sum, the promise of “Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas, Sabka Vishwas, Sabka Prayas” is not rhetorical, it is visible in the material transformation of lives across India’s geography and demography. Inclusive growth is not a parallel track; it is the main highway toward a resilient and Viksit Bharat.

5. Resilience in Global Headwinds

Shri Piyush Goyal rightly observed that “great economies are built in turbulent seas.” In the face of unprecedented global disruptions over the past few years, India has not only demonstrated resilience but also emerged stronger, guided by pragmatic leadership and people-first policies. The country’s response to global crises has reflected a rare balance of fiscal prudence, strategic foresight, and humanitarian sensitivity. During the COVID-19 pandemic, while many advanced economies grappled with debt overhang and healthcare collapses, India managed the crisis through a calibrated approach—combining targeted fiscal support with an emphasis on social protection and healthcare ramp-up. The world’s largest food security program and direct benefit transfers ensured that no citizen was left behind, even during the strictest lockdowns. Simultaneously, vaccine production and deployment through CoWIN set global standards in efficiency and equity.

When the Russia-Ukraine conflict threatened global supply chains and triggered a surge in commodity prices, India acted decisively to maintain domestic supply chain integrity. Strategic reserves, calibrated export restrictions, and enhanced logistics coordination ensured that essentials, from food grains to fertilizers, reached both domestic and global partners without major disruption. In the wake of global inflationary pressures, particularly in fuel and food, India successfully navigated price volatility through a mix of monetary stability and policy insulation. The Indian rupee remained relatively stable, and inflation was kept within manageable bands, even as Western economies struggled with double-digit price surges. The Reserve Bank of India’s coordination with the Finance Ministry played a key role in ensuring macroeconomic balance without stifling growth.

Parallel to its economic resilience, India’s global stature has significantly improved. The Indian passport now ranks 80th on the Henley Passport Index, a reflection of increasing global mobility and trust in India’s diplomatic weight. More importantly, India’s swift and dignified responses in protecting its citizens during global emergencies—such as Operation Ganga, which rescued thousands of Indians from war-torn Ukraine, and Operation Sindhu, which ensured safe evacuations from Sudan—have underscored the government’s commitment to its people, wherever they may be.

These interventions highlight a broader truth: India is not just managing turbulence, it is mastering it, and in doing so, redefining the standards of a responsible, resilient, and responsive global power. With a clear policy direction rooted in Seva, Sushasan, and Navachar, the Modi government is redefining India’s development paradigm. Its shift from incrementalism to quantum transformation is not only strategic but deeply structural. The collective resolve of 140 crore Indians, coupled with dynamic leadership and institutional resilience, places India on a trajectory to not only reach a $5 trillion economy but to emerge as a civilizational and economic vanguard by 2047.

References:

1. Ministry of Finance, Economic Survey 2023–24
2. Goldman Sachs India Outlook Report (2023)
3. Morgan Stanley Emerging Markets Outlook (2024)
4. DPIIT Startup India Dashboard (2024)
5. World Bank India Macro Update (2024)
6. Henley Passport Index (2024)
7. NITI Aayog Policy Briefs
8. Press Information Bureau (PIB) Releases on Government Schemes

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Since 2015, the Pradhan Mantri Kaushal Vikas Yojana (PMKVY) has trained more than 1.4 crore candidates, with 27.8 lakh trained in southern states alone. Under the Jan Shikshan Sansthan (JSS) program, over 4.85 lakh beneficiaries have received livelihood-linked training, 85% of whom are women.

India is undergoing a profound transformation in its approach to skill development, one that moves beyond prescriptive models and embraces adaptive, locally grounded solutions. Government policy now emphasizes empowering states and districts to develop skill strategies aligned with local economies and community aspirations.

Breaking the One-Size-Fits-All Model

Recognizing India’s socio-economic diversity, the government is shifting from top-down frameworks toward decentralized, data-driven planning. States are encouraged to collaborate with district administrations and leverage localized skill gap assessments with support from knowledge partners such as the World Bank and the National Council of Applied Economic Research (NCAER).

Building Trainers, Not Just Trainees

A key national mandate is the enforcement of CITS (Craft Instructor Training Scheme) certification for all new instructors in Industrial Training Institutes (ITIs). This is designed to enhance instructional quality and ensure national standardization through compliance with NCVT (National Council for Vocational Training) norms. States are revising Recruitment Rules (RRs) to institutionalize CITS as a baseline qualification. These reforms are expected to raise the employability of over 1.5 crore annual skilling graduates by ensuring quality at the source of instruction.

Centres of Excellence and Capacity Building

The government has approved five Centres of Excellence (CoEs) in key geographies. The CoEs aim to function as national reference institutions, offering specialized training in high-demand sectors such as Industry 4.0, renewable energy, logistics, and mechatronics. The National Skill Training Institutes (NSTIs) in Chennai and Hyderabad are among the first to be upgraded, providing state-of-the-art infrastructure for instructor development and applied skilling.

National Skill Gap Study

Under the World Bank-supported SANKALP scheme, the Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship (MSDE) commissioned NCAER to conduct a comprehensive National Skill Gap Study. The study covers seven high-growth sectors—construction, logistics, healthcare, IT/ITES, tourism & hospitality, electronics, and green energy—and identifies gaps in demand and supply at state and district levels. This enables evidence-based decision-making and targeted program design.

Skilling Impact and Beneficiary Reach

Since 2015, the Pradhan Mantri Kaushal Vikas Yojana (PMKVY) has trained more than 1.4 crore candidates, with 27.8 lakh trained in southern states alone. Under the Jan Shikshan Sansthan (JSS) program, over 4.85 lakh beneficiaries have received livelihood-linked training, 85% of whom are women. More than 10 lakh apprentices have been engaged under the National Apprenticeship Promotion Scheme (NAPS) since FY 2018-19, supported by over ₹215 crore in direct benefit transfers.

Promoting Green Skills and Rural Entrepreneurship

The government is also promoting climate-conscious skilling. The launch of Rural Entrepreneurship Training Programs in green technologies like biochar reflects this direction. These initiatives aim to create local micro-enterprises in clean energy and regenerative agriculture, directly addressing employment in climate-affected rural economies. A typical biochar unit, for instance, can generate employment for 4–8 people for up to six months annually and achieve sustainability by the second year through sales and carbon credit revenue.

Strengthening the Ecosystem through Integration and Innovation

Modern skilling now integrates with national digital platforms like the Skill India Digital Hub (SIDH), enabling end-to-end visibility for stakeholders. Additionally, performance-based grading systems are being designed for ITIs to instill accountability and quality assurance. Further, the National Credit Framework (NCrF) is being operationalized to align skilling with general and higher education.

Regional Priorities and Localised Innovation

States and UTs are tailoring their approaches: Karnataka focuses on global placement for nursing professionals; Kerala is building workforce capacity in ports and logistics; Andaman & Nicobar Islands are preparing youth for maritime and hospitality sectors linked to tourism and shipping infrastructure. These examples illustrate how local planning, backed by national frameworks, creates scalable and relevant skilling models.

India’s skill development revolution is now defined by localization, digital enablement, quality benchmarks, green transition, and industry linkage. By aligning skilling policies with data, inclusion, and innovation, India is preparing a globally competitive workforce to power its growth story toward Viksit Bharat @2047.

This transformation represents not just a policy evolution but a national movement—placing skill development at the heart of economic empowerment, sustainable development, and demographic dividend realization.

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Nearly 75% of India’s districts were climate-vulnerable. The new model improves extreme rainfall prediction by 30%, forecasting accuracy in core zones by 64% and lead-time for disaster preparedness by 12–18 hours.

India has taken a pioneering stride in climate science and high-resolution weather prediction with the launch of the Bharat Forecast System—one of the world’s first indigenously developed, high-resolution, village-specific forecasting models. Spearheaded by four women scientists at the Indian Institute of Tropical Meteorology (IITM), the system marks a revolutionary leap in India’s capability to anticipate, mitigate, and manage climate risks, aligning seamlessly with the goals of Viksit Bharat@2047, Atmanirbhar Bharat, and global leadership in climate-smart governance. This article critically evaluates the policy significance, scientific innovation, institutional synergy, and future potential of the Bharat Forecast System within the global Energy and Climate Intelligence (ECI) framework.

1. Strategic Context: Forecasting as a Catalyst for Economic and Social Resilience

In 2014, India faced acute vulnerabilities related to extreme weather events. According to the Centre for Science and Environment (CSE), nearly 75% of India’s districts were climate-vulnerable. The loss to GDP from climate disasters ranged between 0.5–1% annually (ADB, 2017), with agriculture, logistics, and health services bearing the brunt.

In this context, the Bharat Forecast System—announced by Union Earth Sciences Minister Dr. Jitendra Singh on May 26, 2025—emerges not merely as a technological feat but as a decisive instrument of economic planning and risk mitigation. As Dr. Singh stated, “Our forecast precision aims to supplement the economic growth by reducing potential losses and simultaneously adding potential gains.”

2. From 12-km to 6-km Resolution: A Quantum Leap in Weather Science

The Bharat Forecast System transitions India’s weather prediction capabilities from a 12-km resolution model to a 6-km resolution grid, built on the Triangular Cubic Octahedral (TCU) Grid Model. This effectively doubles spatial granularity, allowing for village-level forecasts—a critical upgrade in a country where over 60% of the population resides in rural areas and depends on weather-sensitive occupations.

The new model improves:

1. Extreme rainfall prediction by 30%
2. Forecasting accuracy in core zones by 64%
3. Lead-time for disaster preparedness by 12–18 hours, as per IITM internal validation

This transformation supports India’s broader aspirations to rise from the 4th to the 1st largest global economy by 2047 by enhancing economic resilience through climate-informed planning.

3. Policy Framework and Scientific Governance: Whole-of-Government Synergy

The Bharat Forecast System is not a siloed initiative. It is a model case of the “Whole-of-Science” and “Whole-of-Government” approach. Coordination between IITM, IMD, ISRO, Ministry of Agriculture, and the Ministry of Earth Sciences ensures that the system supports a cross-sectoral user base, including:

1. 20+ Union Ministries
2. 6 major economic sectors (agriculture, energy, transport, water, health, and housing)
3. 2,00,000+ Panchayats through local language forecasts and mobile-based delivery

It aligns with and operationalizes key national strategies:

1. National Mission on Strategic Knowledge for Climate Change (NMSKCC)
2. Mission Mausam (₹2000 crore upgrade of climate infra)
3. PM-Fasal Bima Yojana, enhancing actuarial forecasting
4. Digital India, through real-time forecast delivery

4. Science Meets Social Transformation: Gender, Language, and Inclusion

Dr. Jitendra Singh’s emphasis on four women scientists spearheading the system is not symbolic—it is structural. It showcases the ‘Nari Shakti’ policy ethos, translating Prime Minister Modi’s vision into action.

The launch of Indradhanush, IITM’s Hindi science magazine, marks another milestone. It supports linguistic democratization of science, crucial in a country with 22 scheduled languages.

This holistic model of inclusion:

1. Breaks gender hierarchies in STEM
2. Decentralizes science communication
3. Builds local climate literacy

5. Global Comparisons and Leadership: India as a South-South Climate Anchor

Comparatively:

1. USA’s NOAA GFS Model offers 13-km resolution
2. ECMWF (Europe) uses 9-km global scale forecasts
3. Japan’s JMA has a 5-km resolution, but lacks tropical modeling precision

The Bharat Forecast System, therefore, is one of the first indigenously built high-resolution tropical systems, tailored for the monsoon-dependent regions of the Global South. India’s model can now be exported to nations across Africa, Southeast Asia, and Latin America, creating a diplomatic and commercial opportunity under the framework of the International Solar Alliance and Voice of Global South Summit.

6. Next Steps: Integrating Forecast Intelligence into Policy and Markets

To realize the full potential of this system, the following policy actions are recommended:

a. Agriculture and Insurance Integration: Mandate Bharat Forecast System data integration into PM-Fasal Bima Yojana claim models and Kisan Credit Card risk indexing. This can improve payout timeliness by 20–30%.

b. Forecast-to-Finance Linkages: Collaborate with RBI and SEBI to develop weather-indexed financial instruments, enabling hedging for sectors like logistics, retail, and infrastructure.

c. AI and Big Data Layering: Partner with MeitY and NITI Aayog to integrate AI/ML models into the system for hyperlocal, real-time modeling—akin to Google DeepMind’s weather nowcasting projects.

d. International Commercialization: Launch a ‘Bharat Forecast as a Service’ (BFaaS) model for emerging economies with World Bank and UNDP partnerships, driving both diplomacy and commerce.

7. Conclusion: Building a Climate-Resilient Viksit Bharat

The Bharat Forecast System represents India’s technological and scientific coming-of-age. As Dr. Jitendra Singh aptly noted, “The efforts are Indian, the technology is Indian, and the beneficiaries are Indian. This is true Atmanirbharta.”

By making forecasting a public good and a strategic asset, India is not only managing risks—it is turning climate uncertainty into opportunity. With visionary leadership, gender-inclusive science, and global relevance, the Bharat Forecast System becomes more than a scientific tool—it becomes a pillar of India’s journey toward Viksit Bharat 2047.

References:

1. PIB Release: “Dr. Jitendra Singh Unveils Bharat Forecast System” (May 2025)
2. IEA India Energy Outlook (2023)
3. IITM Pune – System Validation Reports (2024–25)
4. World Bank Climate Investment Reports
5. Centre for Science and Environment – State of India’s Environment 2023
6. Ministry of Earth Sciences – Vision Document 2040

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The Under-Five Mortality Rate (U5MR) saw a 78% decline, compared to the global reduction of 61%, reflecting India’s significant advancements in immunization coverage, newborn care, and child nutrition. The Infant Mortality Rate (IMR) also witnessed a 71% decrease, surpassing the 58% global average reduction.

In an era where Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) guide the global conscience, India is quietly scripting a remarkable success story, one of maternal and child survival. While economies are often measured by GDP, the truest measure of a nation’s development lies in how it nurtures its mothers and children.

The recently released Sample Registration System (SRS) Report 2021 and global inter-agency assessments confirm that India’s progress in reducing maternal and child mortality not only outpaces its own past performance but also exceeds global averages. These sustained gains are the outcome of robust policy frameworks, ground-level interventions, and an unwavering political and administrative will.

A Nation’s Health Story

The journey of India’s maternal and child health over the past decade paints a remarkably hopeful and transformative trajectory, one that reflects the deep structural reforms, targeted interventions, and people-centric policies undertaken by the country.

One of the most notable achievements is the sharp decline in the Maternal Mortality Ratio (MMR), which fell from 130 deaths per 1,00,000 live births in 2014–16 to 93 in 2019–21. This nearly 29% reduction signifies not only better medical access but also increased awareness, institutional support, and improved antenatal and postnatal care for women.

In parallel, India has witnessed a substantial decline in the Infant Mortality Rate (IMR)—from 39 per 1,000 live births in 2014 to 27 in 2021—highlighting improved child healthcare services, vaccination coverage, and nutrition outreach. Similarly, the Neonatal Mortality Rate (NMR), a critical indicator of the first 28 days of life, dropped from 26 to 19 per 1,000 live births in the same period. These outcomes point to significant advancements in institutional deliveries, newborn stabilization care, and access to emergency obstetric and neonatal facilities.

Furthermore, the Under-Five Mortality Rate (U5MR)—a broader indicator of childhood well-being—has declined from 45 to 31 per 1,000 live births between 2014 and 2021, reflecting improvements in early childhood health, disease prevention, and community-based care models.

In addition to mortality indicators, the Sex Ratio at Birth has shown a promising improvement, rising from 899 in 2014 to 913 in 2021. This suggests progress in addressing long-standing issues of gender bias and the success of campaigns like Beti Bachao, Beti Padhao that seek to change social attitudes and protect the girl child.

Equally significant is the stabilization of the Total Fertility Rate (TFR) at 2.0 in 2021, down from 2.3 in 2014—indicating that India has effectively reached the population replacement level. This decline aligns with rising female literacy, enhanced family planning awareness, and increased access to reproductive health services.

Taken together, these figures are far more than just statistics. They represent millions of lives saved, children given a fairer start at life, and families spared from preventable tragedy. Most importantly, they signal a fundamental shift in India’s demographic and health narrative—from survival to dignity, and from crisis response to long-term resilience.

India’s Trajectory vs the World

India’s progress in maternal and child health has not only set new national milestones but has also positioned the country as a global exemplar in public health transformation. According to the United Nations Maternal Mortality Estimation Inter-agency Group (UN-MMEIG) Report 2025 and the United Nations Inter-agency Group for Child Mortality Estimation (UN IGME) Report 2024, India’s achievements represent far more than domestic improvements—they are now widely regarded as international benchmarks for health systems strengthening and impact-driven policymaking.

From 1990 to 2023, India achieved an extraordinary 86% reduction in Maternal Mortality Ratio (MMR), a performance that far outpaces the global average reduction of 48% during the same period. This dramatic improvement reflects a nationwide effort to enhance institutional deliveries, ensure skilled birth attendance, provide emergency obstetric care, and improve overall access to maternal health services—even in remote and underserved regions.

Similarly, the country has made remarkable progress in reducing child mortality. The Under-Five Mortality Rate (U5MR) saw a 78% decline, compared to the global reduction of 61%, reflecting India’s significant advancements in immunization coverage, newborn care, and child nutrition. The Neonatal Mortality Rate (NMR), which is often the most challenging indicator due to the critical care needs of newborns, fell by 70%—once again outpacing the global average decline of 54%. The Infant Mortality Rate (IMR) also witnessed a 71% decrease, surpassing the 58% global average reduction.

These figures are not just numbers—they are powerful indicators of how India has redefined what is possible in a low- and middle-income context, through a combination of visionary leadership, community-based health systems, evidence-based interventions, and inclusive governance. India’s trajectory demonstrates that with sustained political commitment and grassroots implementation, even the most complex health challenges can be overcome.

By consistently outperforming global trends, India has now emerged as a top-performing country in child survival, setting the pace for many other nations still grappling with high mortality rates. This progress is a strong testament to India’s strategic focus on maternal and child health under Sustainable Development Goal 3 (SDG 3)—”Ensure healthy lives and promote well-being for all at all ages.”

In doing so, India is not only saving lives but also reshaping global health narratives—proving that transformative change is possible when policy is rooted in purpose, and when every life is treated as a priority.

SDG 2030 Targets 

The decentralization of health efforts has allowed several Indian states to outperform and achieve SDG targets ahead of schedule:

MMR ≤ 70 achieved by 8 states: Kerala (20), Maharashtra (38), Telangana (45), Andhra Pradesh (46), Tamil Nadu (49), Jharkhand (51), Gujarat (53), Karnataka (63).

U5MR ≤ 25 achieved by 12 states/UTs: Kerala, Delhi, Tamil Nadu, Jammu & Kashmir, Maharashtra, West Bengal, Karnataka, Punjab, Telangana, Himachal Pradesh, Andhra Pradesh, Gujarat.

NMR ≤ 12 achieved by 6 states/UTs: Kerala, Delhi, Tamil Nadu, Maharashtra, Jammu & Kashmir, Himachal Pradesh.

This state-level performance indicates that targeted interventions, tailored to local needs and contexts, are yielding exceptional results.

The Strategic Policy Backbone

The remarkable decline in maternal and child mortality rates in India is not a matter of chance—it is the direct result of meticulously designed policy interventions, backed by a visionary governance model that emphasizes inclusivity, accessibility, and dignity in healthcare delivery. The government’s strategic approach integrates flagship schemes, infrastructure expansion, and clinical innovations to address the multifaceted challenges of maternal and child health in a comprehensive manner.

Flagship Health Schemes

At the heart of this policy transformation is Ayushman Bharat—Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (PM-JAY), the world’s largest health assurance initiative. This landmark program provides an annual health coverage of ₹5 lakh per family, ensuring that financial constraints do not hinder access to quality healthcare, especially for vulnerable populations. Complementing this is the LaQshya Program, which focuses on enhancing the quality of maternal care in labor rooms and maternity operation theatres. It sets rigorous standards for clinical practices and facility management to ensure that mothers receive respectful and evidence-based care during childbirth. Another cornerstone initiative is the Janani Shishu Suraksha Karyakram (JSSK), which guarantees completely free and cashless services for all pregnant women delivering in public health institutions—including coverage for caesarean sections, medications, diagnostics, nutrition, and even transportation.

Infrastructure Development

Alongside these schemes, the government has significantly invested in expanding and upgrading health infrastructure. This includes the establishment of Maternity Waiting Homes, Maternal and Child Health (MCH) Wings, Obstetric High Dependency Units (HDUs), Sick Newborn Care Units (SNCUs), and Mother-Newborn Care Units, designed to offer specialized care during high-risk pregnancies and neonatal emergencies. These structured frameworks now support the management of approximately 300 lakh pregnancies and 260 lakh healthy live births annually, underscoring the scale and effectiveness of India’s maternal and child healthcare system.

Clinical Innovations

Furthermore, clinical innovations have played a vital role in improving survival outcomes, particularly among preterm and low-birth-weight newborns. The widespread use of antenatal corticosteroids for women in preterm labor has significantly improved neonatal outcomes by accelerating fetal lung development. Technologies like Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) therapy are being implemented to support neonatal respiratory function in resource-limited settings. Moreover, structured follow-up screenings for congenital anomalies such as hearing and vision defects are ensuring early detection and timely intervention.

Crucially, the government is also investing in human resources for health. Thousands of skilled birth attendants, midwives, and community health workers are being trained to deliver high-quality, compassionate, and evidence-based care—even in India’s most remote and underserved areas. Their presence at the last mile ensures that policy reaches the people it is designed to protect and empower.

Data-Driven Governance

Behind India’s remarkable achievements in maternal and child health lies an often-overlooked force that has quietly transformed the way policies are implemented and monitored: real-time health data systems. In the digital age, timely, accurate, and actionable information is the foundation of effective governance—and India has embraced this principle with remarkable clarity and commitment.

Among the key pillars of this transformation are platforms like the Health Management Information System (HMIS) and the Mother and Child Tracking System (MCTS). These robust digital infrastructures have empowered health administrators, policymakers, and frontline workers with the ability to track service delivery, monitor outcomes, and detect gaps in real time. No longer are decisions delayed by outdated or fragmented data; today, policy adaptation and program refinement happen dynamically, in response to real-world developments on the ground.

Through HMIS, detailed health metrics are gathered and analyzed across thousands of public health facilities nationwide, covering indicators such as antenatal care, immunization, delivery outcomes, and child health services. MCTS, meanwhile, focuses specifically on tracking the continuum of care for mothers and children—ensuring that no woman or child falls through the cracks during pregnancy, childbirth, and early childhood.

These platforms also serve as powerful early warning systems, flagging anomalies such as rising maternal deaths or lapses in immunization coverage, allowing timely interventions. The integration of these systems with mobile technologies and frontline worker dashboards ensures that even at the community level, data becomes a tool for accountability, responsiveness, and citizen-centric governance.

India’s digital health data revolution represents a quiet but critical shift—from reactive to proactive health management, from guesswork to evidence-based action. It is this silent architecture of real-time intelligence that supports and sustains the visible achievements in maternal and child survival—and will continue to be a cornerstone as the nation moves towards achieving the SDG 2030 goals.

Health is Nation-Building

India’s success in reducing maternal and child mortality is a civilizational assertion of its ethos: जननी और बालक की रक्षा ही राष्ट्र रक्षा का मूल है। By blending technology with tradition, and policy with empathy, India is proving that socioeconomic progress need not come at the cost of dignity or inclusion. The road to SDG 2030 may be challenging, but India’s march is steady, inclusive, and driven by the firm belief that no mother should die giving life, and no child should be denied the right to live it fully.

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Japan’s cultural content drives revenue and making it a soft power leader as reflected in the Soft Power 30 Index, where Japan consistently ranks in the top 10. Now India envisions, nurtures, and globalizes its creative intellectual property (IP) ecosystem.

India, long celebrated for its rich storytelling traditions, is entering a transformative era in the global creative economy. With the WAVES Anime & Manga Contest (WAM!), the Government of India has initiated a landmark cultural and industrial policy intervention that elevates the country’s indigenous potential in anime, manga, webtoons, and cosplay. Set to culminate at WAVES 2025—the World Audio-Visual & Entertainment Summit—this initiative marks a paradigm shift in how India envisions, nurtures, and globalizes its intellectual property (IP) ecosystem.

Cultural Soft Power Meets Economic Strategy

In the 21st century, cultural soft power and digital content are deeply intertwined. Nations like Japan and South Korea have demonstrated how anime, manga, K-pop, and webtoons can transform not only cultural perceptions but also fuel substantial economic growth through IP exports, merchandising, tourism, and cross-platform adaptations. With WAM!, India aims to harness its youth demographic, digital agility, and narrative legacy to build a new IP-driven creative economy.

The support from global anime titan Crunchyroll—a joint venture of Sony Pictures Entertainment and Aniplex—signals international validation of India’s creative promise. Their Creator Development Grant, along with support for Team India at Anime Japan 2026 and collaboration with the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting and the Media & Entertainment Association of India (MEAI), underscores that WAM! is not just a contest, but a nation-building strategy rooted in soft power and digital IP.

WAVES 2025: A Platform with Vision

WAVES 2025, hosted at Mumbai’s Jio World Convention Centre, represents the first national convergence of India’s AVGC-XR (Animation, Visual Effects, Gaming, Comics, and Extended Reality) ecosystem. Guided by the vision of “Create in India, Create for the World,” WAVES aims to foster cross-sectoral collaboration among artists, tech innovators, studios, and investors. The summit seeks to propel Indian creators onto global stages by transforming domestic content into exportable IPs, while also attracting foreign direct investment and co-production opportunities.

Moreover, WAVES will support local talent and startups through programs such as the Create in India Challenges, which has already seen participation from over one lakh individuals, including 1,100 international participants. After a comprehensive selection process, more than 750 finalists were shortlisted across 32 unique challenge themes.

The Importance of Original Indian IPs

For years, India has served as a major outsourcing hub for global animation and VFX projects. While this has developed a strong technical skill base, it hasn’t resulted in the creation or global recognition of original Indian intellectual properties. WAM! represents a critical shift by investing in indigenous stories, characters, and artistic styles, thereby building long-term cultural capital and economic value.

By supporting anime, manga, webtoons, and cosplay—across both student and professional categories—the initiative creates a robust pipeline of creators who can scale their ideas from concept to commercial IPs. Furthermore, by embedding cosplay into the framework, the contest taps into youth-led fan cultures and creates avenues for community-driven engagement and monetization.

This movement is pivotal for India to evolve from a backend service provider to a leading content creator nation. A robust IP ecosystem enables new streams of exports, licensing opportunities, digital streaming content, merchandising, educational products, and even tourism, thereby creating significant sector-wide benefits.

Strategic Policy Alignment

WAM! is also well-aligned with several flagship national missions. It strengthens the Digital India initiative by empowering digital-first creators. It supports Skill India by creating fresh employment pathways in the creative technology space. The program is a natural fit with Startup India, enabling new content-tech startups and creative incubators. Through Make in India, it promotes homegrown production and storytelling with global appeal. It also enhances India’s cultural diplomacy through content exports that carry Indian values, aesthetics, and narratives to global audiences.

The AVGC-XR sector has already been identified as a sunrise industry by the Indian government and is projected to significantly contribute to India’s ambition of becoming a $100 billion media and entertainment economy by 2030.

Learning from Soft Power Economies: Japan and South Korea

Japan and South Korea offer compelling case studies of how cultural content like anime, manga, K-pop, and webtoons can drive economic growth and enhance soft power. In Japan, the anime industry alone was valued at over ¥2.7 trillion (approx. $20 billion) in 2022, according to the Association of Japanese Animations. Manga continues to be a dominant publishing segment, with annual revenues surpassing ¥600 billion. Globally successful franchises like Pokémon, Dragon Ball, and One Piece have generated billions in merchandising, film adaptations, and licensing deals. The Japanese government’s “Cool Japan” initiative, which allocates around ¥50 billion for promoting Japanese culture overseas, has institutionalized the export of anime, fashion, cuisine, and design as a form of economic diplomacy. Japan’s cultural content not only drives revenue but also shapes global perceptions, making it a soft power leader as reflected in the Soft Power 30 Index, where Japan consistently ranks in the top 10.

South Korea’s rise through the Korean Wave (Hallyu) is even more recent and rapid. According to a Hyundai Research Institute report, BTS alone contributes over $5 billion annually to South Korea’s economy—more than many of the country’s major conglomerates. The global reach of K-dramas, K-pop, and webtoons has helped Korean cultural content become one of the country’s top exports. LINE Webtoon, now a global digital comic platform, recorded over 85 million monthly active users in 2023, spanning the U.S., Southeast Asia, and Europe. The Korean Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism has invested heavily in creative content, allocating more than ₩1.3 trillion (approx. $970 million) annually to bolster its cultural industries. As a result, South Korea jumped to the 11th position on the Global Soft Power Index 2023, signaling that creative content is no longer just entertainment—it is national strategy.

Need of National Animation and Digital IP Development Fund 

While WAM! lays the foundation, sustaining momentum will require long-term policy support and institution-building. India should consider establishing a National Animation and Digital IP Development Fund to finance new ventures. Integrating anime and manga storytelling frameworks into formal education curricula will help in grooming the next generation of creators. Further, creating bilateral co-production treaties with anime-producing nations will ease content exchange and open up global markets.

Regional content labs can nurture vernacular storytelling in global formats, ensuring inclusivity and diversity. Simultaneously, a nationwide campaign to promote copyright and IP literacy will help creators retain control and benefit economically from their creations.

India’s Anime and IP Moment

India is on the brink of a creative renaissance. WAM! and WAVES 2025 are not mere events—they represent strategic milestones in India’s quest to become a global IP superpower. By institutionalizing support for anime, manga, webtoons, and cosplay, India is making a bold statement about the future of its creative economy.

As Indian creators gain visibility on international platforms, the vision of “Create in India, Create for the World” will become more than a mission—it will evolve into a movement that redefines India’s position in the global cultural and economic order.

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Under the leadership of PM Narendra Modi, the number of National Waterways (NWs) expanded from 5 to 111. Out of these, 29 NWs are now operational, with the total navigable waterway length increasing from 2,716 km (2014–15) to 4,894 km (2023–24).

India has quietly scripted a historic transformation on its inland waterways, turning underutilized riverine corridors into powerful engines of logistics and green growth. In a landmark achievement, the country recorded a cargo movement of 145.5 million metric tonnes (MMT) in FY 2024–25, a staggering increase from just 18.1 MMT in 2013–14. This represents a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 20.86%, underscoring a strategic modal shift in India’s freight ecosystem.

This achievement is more than just a number—it is a vital step toward the vision of Viksit Bharat @2047, where sustainable, efficient, and inclusive infrastructure powers a developed India.

Transforming the Riverine Economy: From Margins to Mainstream

Over the past decade, India has taken decisive steps to reposition inland water transport (IWT) as a mainstream logistics option. Under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the number of National Waterways (NWs) expanded from 5 to 111, following the passage of the National Waterways Act, 2016. Out of these, 29 NWs are now operational, with the total navigable waterway length increasing from 2,716 km (2014–15) to 4,894 km (2023–24).

These blue arteries now facilitate more than just movement—they power economic transformation. Key commodities like coal, fly ash, iron ore, sand, and cement accounted for over 68% of total cargo, while passenger traffic surged to 1.61 crore in 2023–24, signaling multi-sectoral potential.

Infrastructure That Floats Economies

India’s ambitious inland waterway transformation has been anchored in strategic infrastructure investments exceeding ₹6,434 crore since 2014. These investments have reshaped the logistical landscape across multiple regions by creating a seamless, multimodal transport network that blends rivers, roads, and railways. The result is a more resilient and cost-effective logistics system that bolsters economic activity while reducing environmental impact.

The operationalization of MMTs at Varanasi (Uttar Pradesh), Sahibganj (Jharkhand), and Haldia (West Bengal) has created high-capacity nodes where cargo from river vessels can be efficiently transferred to rail and road. These terminals are equipped with material handling systems, storage yards, container depots, and connectivity infrastructure that make cargo handling smooth and economically viable.

Varanasi MMT, located on NW-1 (Ganga), serves as a vital hub for the freight movement from Eastern UP to eastern and northeastern regions.

Sahibganj MMT has unlocked trade potential for Jharkhand, Bihar, and even Nepal.

Haldia MMT, close to the Bay of Bengal, links inland cargo movement to maritime shipping routes, enabling direct global trade.

Inter-Modal Terminal (IMT) at Kalughat: The Kalughat IMT in Bihar provides a critical link between NW-1 and rail freight corridors, allowing direct cargo movement between inland river systems and the Indian Railways network. It is pivotal for industries in Bihar and Eastern India seeking efficient access to seaports.

49 community jetties on NW-1 (Ganga) are enabling economic inclusion by connecting small towns and rural areas directly to the cargo network.

On NW-2 (Brahmaputra), 12 terminals and jetties facilitate freight and passenger mobility across Assam, bridging the state’s economic isolation and supporting local industries such as tea, coal, and construction materials.

These jetties also encourage river tourism and small-scale trade, particularly benefitting self-help groups, rural entrepreneurs, and local transport operators.

Sustainable Fleet: Electric and Hydrogen-Powered Vessels

In a bid to lead the world in green logistics, India is deploying Hybrid Electric Catamarans for passenger and cargo transit, especially in ecologically sensitive regions like Kerala and Assam. Hydrogen-powered vessels, currently under development, promise zero-emission transport, aligning with India’s Panchamrit climate goals and contributing to a greener Maritime Amrit Kaal Vision.

Ripple Effects on Regional Development

These infrastructure projects are not isolated interventions—they are revitalizing entire regional economies:

In Eastern Uttar Pradesh, farmers and small manufacturers now have affordable access to markets via the Varanasi terminal.

In Assam and the Northeast, river routes offer the most viable logistics corridor due to difficult terrain and limited rail coverage.

Bihar and Jharkhand have seen improved trade competitiveness due to direct river-port access and lower logistics costs.

These developments are also enabling the reverse movement of finished goods, helping industries in hinterland India to scale up and tap into national and international demand.

Jalvahak Scheme: A Catalyst for Modal Shift

India’s logistics landscape is undergoing a quiet but powerful revolution with the launch of the Jalvahak Scheme, introduced in December 2024 by the Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways. With a targeted budget of ₹95.42 crore, this scheme is a key enabler for shifting freight movement from congested roads and overburdened railways to cleaner, cost-efficient Inland Water Transport (IWT) systems.

At the heart of the scheme is a 35% operating cost reimbursement for cargo owners who choose to move their goods via inland waterways instead of traditional modes. This direct financial incentive helps bridge the cost gap created by multimodal handling, infrastructure challenges at loading points, and the relative unfamiliarity with riverine logistics among businesses.

This incentive has proven particularly attractive for bulk cargo industries—such as coal, cement, fertilizer, fly ash, and food grains—where even marginal savings on logistics translate into major competitiveness gains.

Scheduled Services: Building Predictability and Trust

The scheme is not just about subsidies—it institutionalizes scheduled cargo services across three critical routes:

• NW-1 (Ganga): Kolkata–Patna–Varanasi
• NW-2 (Brahmaputra): Kolkata–Pandu, via the Indo-Bangladesh Protocol (IBP) route
• NW-16 (Barak River): Kolkata–Badarpur/Karimganj, also via IBP

By establishing time-bound and predictable shipping timetables, the government is addressing one of the most pressing concerns for businesses: reliability. This move helps inland water transport evolve from a backup option into a viable mainstream logistics solution.

Modal Shift with Long-Term National Goals

The Jalvahak Scheme is a cornerstone in the broader plan to increase the modal share of IWT in India:

• From the current 2% to 5% by 2030, under the Maritime India Vision 2030
• To a projected 10% share and 500+ MMT cargo traffic by 2047, aligned with the Maritime Amrit Kaal Vision

This shift is critical for reducing India’s logistics costs, which currently stand at 13–14% of GDP, significantly higher than the global average of 8–9%. Inland water transport offers up to 30–60% cost savings per tonne-kilometer over rail and road, along with dramatically reduced carbon emissions.

Economic and Environmental Multiplier Effect

Beyond just transportation, Jalvahak is also stimulating broader economic, environmental, and employment impacts:

• Industrial decentralization: Enables Tier-2 and Tier-3 cities near rivers to access cost-effective shipping
• Carbon reduction: Significantly lowers CO₂ emissions per tonne of freight moved
• Skill creation: Generates demand for river pilots, vessel operators, and logistics professionals
• Tourism boost: Improves navigability, creating pathways for river cruises and eco-tourism

Policy Push: Modernizing for Private Investment and Ease of Doing Business

A robust policy framework has supported this surge:

1. Tonnage Tax Extended (Budget 2025): Inland vessels now enjoy a predictable tax regime based on vessel capacity, promoting investment.
2. Regulations for Private Infrastructure: The National Waterways (Construction of Jetties/Terminals) Regulations, 2025 allow private players to build and operate facilities, unlocking PPP potential.
3. Port Integration: Key terminals are now managed by Shyama Prasad Mookerjee Port, Kolkata, enabling seamless multimodal logistics.
4. Digital Innovations: Platforms like LADIS, RIS, PANI, and MIRS enhance navigation, transparency, and data-driven decision-making.
5. Centralized Vessel Registration: A new portal (on the lines of VAHAN & SARATHI) is under development to simplify vessel and crew documentation.

Building the Ecosystem: Aggregation, Rail Links, and Diplomacy

Recognizing the need for regional cargo hubs, the government is building Freight Village in Varanasi and Cluster Logistics Park at Sahibganj With NHLML and IPRCL facilitating rail linkages, these hubs will act as magnets for cargo aggregation and multimodal transfer.

On the diplomatic front, new IWT routes have been activated under the Indo-Bangladesh Protocol, especially Routes No. 5 & 6 (Maia to Sultanganj), boosting regional trade and connectivity.

Strategic Role in Viksit Bharat Mission

India’s inland water transport revival is more than infrastructure—it’s a paradigm shift in mobility and sustainability. It offers:

• Lower Carbon Emissions: IWT emits 50–60% less CO₂ per tonne-km than road transport.
• Cost Efficiency: Water transport is 30–40% cheaper than rail and road for bulk cargo.
• Decongestion: Reduces pressure on highways and railways.
• Inclusive Growth: Revives river-based economies, boosts jobs in remote and riverine regions, and encourages tourism.

These outcomes align directly with the five pillars of Viksit Bharat: Inclusive Growth, Sustainability, Infrastructure Modernization, Innovation, and Global Competitiveness.

India’s record cargo movement through inland waterways signals the success of a silent revolution. It showcases what sustained political will, strategic investment, and innovative policymaking can achieve. As India sails into the Maritime Amrit Kaal, inland waterways are poised to become the blue corridors of India’s next growth story, connecting not just places—but aspirations, opportunities, and futures.

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On January 18, 2025, the landmark achievement of distributing 65 lakh SVAMITVA property cards in 10 states and 2 Union Territories further reinforced the scheme’s nationwide impact.

Five years ago, a quiet revolution began in India’s villages—one that promised legal ownership, economic empowerment, and dispute-free living for millions. Launched on April 24, 2020, the SVAMITVA (Survey of Villages and Mapping with Improvised Technology in Village Areas) Scheme set out to reshape rural land governance. Today, as SVAMITVA celebrates its fifth anniversary, it stands as a symbol of India’s commitment to making its villages self-reliant and prosperous.

Endorsed by Prime Minister Narendra Modi as pivotal to India’s vision of self-reliant villages and communities, SVAMITVA leverages cutting-edge drone technology and digital tools to grant rural households official property ownership. In doing so, it enables access to credit, fosters economic development, and strengthens grassroots governance.

SVAMITVA: Transforming Vision Into Reality

Implemented by the Ministry of Panchayati Raj with support from the Survey of India and NICSI (National Informatics Centre Services Inc.), SVAMITVA has proven transformative. With a sanctioned budget of ₹566.23 crores from FY 2020-21 to FY 2024-25—and extended through FY 2025-26—the scheme represents a major policy effort to secure the property rights of rural India.

Key achievements so far include:

• Completion of drone surveys across 3.20 lakh villages, covering an area of over 68,122 square kilometers.
• Issuance of more than 2.42 crore property cards across 1.61 lakh villages.
• Full survey coverage achieved in Union Territories like Lakshadweep, Ladakh, and Delhi, and states including Andhra Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, Uttar Pradesh, and Chhattisgarh.
• Signing of Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) with 31 States and Union Territories.

On January 18, 2025, the landmark achievement of distributing 65 lakh SVAMITVA property cards in 10 states and 2 Union Territories further reinforced the scheme’s nationwide impact.

Addressing a Historical Gap: The Need for SVAMITVA

For decades, large sections of rural India operated without formal land records. This absence hindered economic advancement, limited access to institutional credit, and fueled frequent land disputes. SVAMITVA was designed to bridge this historical gap by providing villagers with legal proof of ownership through advanced surveying technologies.

By issuing property cards, SVAMITVA transforms land into a tangible, bankable asset. Villagers can now leverage their homes and lands for credit, invest in their futures, and participate more fully in India’s economic life.

Components Driving the Success of SVAMITVA

The effectiveness of the SVAMITVA Scheme rests on several integrated components:

Establishment of CORS Network: Continuously Operating Reference Stations (CORS) provide critical Ground Control Points to ensure accurate geo-referencing and boundary marking.

Large-Scale Drone Mapping: High-resolution drone surveys generate detailed and precise property maps, forming the basis for property card issuance.

Information, Education, and Communication (IEC) Initiatives: Extensive awareness campaigns educate villagers about the scheme’s benefits and procedures.

Enhancement of Gram Manchitra Application: Spatial planning tools help Gram Panchayats leverage digital land records for preparing better development plans.

Online Monitoring System: A robust dashboard monitors implementation progress in real-time, ensuring transparency and accountability.

Project Management Units: National and state-level units provide technical and managerial support for seamless execution.

Global Recognition: India Leads in Land Governance Innovation

SVAMITVA’s innovative model has captured international attention. The International Workshop on Land Governance, held at Haryana Institute of Public Administration (HIPA) in March 2025, drew senior officials from 22 countries. Participants studied India’s success in drone-based surveys, transparent record-keeping, and digital property card issuance.

At the India International Trade Fair 2024, the SVAMITVA exhibit at Bharat Mandapam showcased how technology is not only resolving long-standing land disputes but also catalyzing rural economic growth. India’s example is now inspiring similar initiatives globally, positioning the country as a thought leader in land governance innovation.

Empowering Villages: Stories of Success

SVAMITVA’s impact is best understood through the lives it has transformed:

Resolving Decades-Old Disputes: In Taropka village, Himachal Pradesh, Smt. Sunita finally gained legal ownership of her ancestral property after 25 years of dispute. Her property card under SVAMITVA brought peace, security, and newfound dignity.

Financial Empowerment: In Falated village, Rajasthan, Sh. Sukhlal Pargi used his property card to secure a bank loan of ₹3 lakh. This access to formal financial services opened new opportunities for his family’s economic advancement.

Such stories echo across thousands of villages, showcasing how SVAMITVA is changing lives by fostering self-reliance and confidence among rural populations.

The SVAMITVA Scheme has, in just five years, laid a strong foundation for a new era of rural empowerment in India. It embodies the spirit of Atmanirbhar Bharat—self-reliant India—by turning land into a source of security, dignity, and opportunity. By addressing historical gaps in land ownership, leveraging cutting-edge technology, and strengthening rural governance, SVAMITVA is not just solving old problems—it is creating new possibilities for generations to come.

As SVAMITVA moves into its next phase, its mission remains clear: to build a future where every villager holds the key to prosperity—literally in their hands.

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The project is expected to eliminate 3.3 million tonnes of CO₂ emissions per year, contributing significantly to India’s commitments under the Paris Agreement and its updated Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs).

In a monumental leap for global energy transition and a testament to India’s green ambitions under Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the country has proudly unveiled the world’s first and largest Integrated Renewable Energy Storage Project (IRESP) at Pinnapuram in Andhra Pradesh. Spearheaded by Greenko Group, a global leader in energy transition solutions, this $4.2 billion mega-project sets a new global benchmark in renewable energy infrastructure. Combining 4000 MW of solar, 1000 MW of wind, and 1680 MW of pumped storage hydro with a record-breaking 10,080 MWh storage capacity per day, the project offers firm and dispatchable clean power—a first-of-its-kind integrated solution that addresses one of the biggest challenges in renewable energy: intermittency.

A New Era of Dispatchable, Round-the-Clock Green Energy

Most renewable energy projects globally face the hurdle of reliability due to solar and wind variability. Pinnapuram overcomes this with a hybrid generation-storage design that enables 24×7 carbon-free electricity. Its pumped storage system acts like a natural battery—storing excess energy during peak generation and releasing it when demand spikes or renewable sources dip. This capability is crucial for transforming industries that are otherwise difficult to decarbonize. For example, the project directly supports green hydrogen production, enabling India to become a cost leader in green molecules. It also empowers the green steel and aluminum industries by providing uninterrupted clean power. Additionally, it supports heavy industries and data centers that require reliable base-load power without carbon emissions. The project is expected to eliminate 3.3 million tonnes of CO₂ emissions per year, contributing significantly to India’s commitments under the Paris Agreement and its updated Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs).

Modi Government’s Visionary Policies: Enabling Transformational Energy Infrastructure

The successful implementation of the Pinnapuram project is deeply rooted in the Modi government’s decade-long, transformative energy policy ecosystem. Several national initiatives have converged to create fertile ground for such bold investments. The National Green Hydrogen Mission, with an outlay of ₹19,744 crore, is encouraging the development of hydrogen-based industries powered by green energy. The One Nation, One Grid initiative ensures reliable, national-level distribution of renewable energy. In addition, production-linked incentive (PLI) schemes for solar module and battery storage manufacturing are reducing import dependence and boosting the Make in India mission. The promotion of Hydrogen and Renewable Energy Hubs has also positioned states like Andhra Pradesh as leaders in clean energy development. Union Minister Shri Pralhad Joshi, who visited the Pinnapuram site, called it a “shining example of India’s green potential,” reflecting the central government’s commitment to fostering collaboration between industry and policy for sustainable development.

Strategic Significance for Viksit Bharat @2047

This mega project is not just about power generation—it’s a building block for India’s vision of becoming a developed, energy-secure, and sustainable economy by 2047. Its socio-economic impact is far-reaching. The project will create thousands of direct and indirect green jobs across engineering, operations, and maintenance sectors. It will catalyze industrial growth by encouraging the establishment of renewable-energy-powered manufacturing zones and data centers. Moreover, by enabling export competitiveness in emerging areas like green hydrogen, India can position itself as a global supplier of sustainable energy solutions. As India targets 500 GW of non-fossil fuel capacity by 2030, integrated projects like Pinnapuram are essential for maintaining grid stability, reducing fossil fuel import dependency, and enhancing national energy security. Most importantly, it aligns perfectly with the Panchamrit goals announced by Prime Minister Modi at COP26, where India committed to achieving net zero emissions by 2070.

Greenko’s Role: Indian Innovation for Global Impact

At the core of the Pinnapuram initiative lies Greenko’s Intelligent Renewable Energy Cloud Storage Platform (IRECSP), an AI-driven digital backbone that manages demand prediction, real-time storage deployment, and grid balancing. This makes it possible to supply on-demand, grid-integrated renewable energy at scale, significantly lowering costs and improving efficiency. Greenko’s achievement demonstrates that cutting-edge clean technology is now being designed, developed, and deployed in India. With strong support from both the central and state governments—particularly Andhra Pradesh’s proactive administration—this project becomes a template for global replication, especially in emerging economies seeking clean energy security.

Global Significance: India as a Leader in Climate Action

India has transitioned from being a developing country balancing growth and emissions to a proactive clean energy superpower shaping the global agenda. The Pinnapuram project marks a watershed moment, putting India ahead of even advanced economies in executing real-time, large-scale, dispatchable renewable energy systems. At a time when global supply chains, energy security, and climate resilience are under strain, India is offering solutions that combine affordability, sustainability, and scalability. Countries across Africa, Southeast Asia, and Latin America are now looking to India’s clean energy model as a replicable blueprint for the future.

Pinnapuram Powers the Future

The Pinnapuram Integrated Renewable Energy Storage Project is more than an engineering marvel—it’s a blueprint for Viksit Bharat @2047. It encapsulates how visionary leadership, robust policy frameworks, and private-sector excellence can together transform a nation’s destiny. Under Prime Minister Modi’s leadership, India is no longer a follower in global energy trends—it is a trailblazer, offering sustainable, innovative, and inclusive pathways to power the planet. The Pinnapuram project is not just lighting homes—it is lighting the way forward for the world.

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Modi government initiatives democratizes access to high-performance computing, empowering researchers, startups, academia, and industry stakeholders to foster an environment of innovation that is both accessible and impactful.

As the world accelerates towards a digital-first economy, India is not just participating but actively shaping the digital future. With a strategic focus on Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI), Artificial Intelligence (AI), and semiconductor and electronics manufacturing, India is laying the foundation for a self-reliant and technologically advanced economy. The government’s push for indigenous innovation, global partnerships, and regulatory reforms is propelling India into a leadership position in the digital age.

Semiconductors and electronics serve as the foundation, while Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI) acts as the catalyst driving India’s technological transformation. Through a unique AI framework, India is making artificial intelligence accessible to all, fostering a more inclusive and innovative digital ecosystem.

Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI)

India’s groundbreaking efforts in Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI) have left a lasting impact on the global digital ecosystem. Unlike models dominated solely by corporate entities or state control, India has pioneered a unique public-private partnership approach. Leveraging public funds, the country has built robust digital platforms such as Aadhaar, UPI, and DigiLocker. These foundational infrastructures serve as a launchpad for private enterprises to innovate and develop user-centric applications tailored to diverse needs.

India’s Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI) has revolutionized governance, financial inclusion, and public service delivery. With over 1.3 billion Aadhaar enrollments, India has established one of the world’s largest biometric-based identity systems, ensuring seamless authentication for financial transactions, welfare distribution, and e-governance. The Unified Payments Interface (UPI) has further transformed the fintech landscape, processing billions of transactions monthly and fostering innovation through its open API framework. Additionally, the Open Network for Digital Commerce (ONDC) aims to democratize e-commerce by breaking platform monopolies and empowering small businesses. Platforms like DigiLocker and CoWIN have showcased India’s ability to provide secure and scalable digital services, particularly in health and document storage, reinforcing the nation’s leadership in digital governance.

By leveraging DPI, initiatives like the Mahakumbh event have set global benchmarks for tech-enabled governance, disaster management, and public administration. India’s DPI model is being adopted by other countries, reinforcing its leadership in digital governance. The foundation laid by Aadhaar, UPI (Unified Payments Interface), and the India Stack has transformed the way citizens access financial services, governance, and digital identities.

Artificial Intelligence

India’s AI strategy focuses on leveraging technology for social good, economic growth, and national security. With the establishment of the India AI Mission, the country is making significant investments in AI research, innovation, and ethical governance.

India is making artificial intelligence (AI) more inclusive through an unprecedented AI framework. A crucial step in this direction is the establishment of a common compute facility equipped with 18,000 Graphics Processing Units (GPUs). Offered at a subsidized rate of less than ₹100 per hour, this initiative democratizes access to high-performance computing, empowering researchers, startups, academia, and industry stakeholders. By facilitating the development of AI-driven applications—ranging from advanced healthcare diagnostics to sophisticated machine learning models—India is fostering an environment of innovation that is both accessible and impactful.

Artificial Intelligence (AI) is playing a transformative role in India’s public services, enhancing efficiency and accessibility across various sectors. In agriculture, AI-driven solutions aid in crop yield prediction and smart irrigation, optimizing resource use and boosting productivity. The healthcare sector benefits from AI-powered early diagnosis and telemedicine, ensuring timely medical intervention, especially in remote areas. Governance is also leveraging AI through chatbots for citizen services and crime analytics for improved law enforcement. India’s thriving AI startup ecosystem, supported by premier institutions like IITs and IISc, is driving advancements in deep learning, natural language processing, and computer vision. As AI adoption grows, the government is prioritizing ethical AI frameworks to ensure fairness, transparency, and data privacy. Additionally, AI is being integrated into national security, strengthening cybersecurity, intelligence operations, and defense systems, reinforcing India’s digital sovereignty in an increasingly technology-driven world.

Semiconductor and Electronics Manufacturing

Recognizing the strategic importance of semiconductors, India has launched initiatives to develop a domestic semiconductor manufacturing ecosystem. The Semicon India Programme aims to position India as a global hub for chip design and fabrication. The Digital Personal Data Protection Act has set the stage for robust data governance, and soon we will witness another milestone – the launch of India’s first Make in India chip this year.

India’s digital future is being shaped by visionary policies, strategic investments, and global collaborations. By harnessing the potential of DPI, AI, electronics and semiconductor manufacturing, India is not only becoming a global digital powerhouse but also ensuring that technology serves its citizens and economy. The next decade will be crucial in determining India’s role as a leader in the Fourth Industrial Revolution, setting a benchmark for digital transformation worldwide.

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From Factory Floors to Global Headlines

India’s auto industry, the fourth-largest vehicle producer globally, has evolved from being a domestic champion to a serious global contender. The NITI Aayog report, launched in the presence of Shri Suman Bery (Vice Chairman), Dr. V.K. Saraswat and Dr. Arvind Virmani (Members), and CEO Shri BVR Subrahmanyam, outlines an ambitious yet achievable vision: tripling auto component exports from $20 billion to $60 billion by 2030, expanding global value chain (GVC) participation from 3% to 8%, and creating 2-2.5 million new jobs in the process.

India’s Global Automotive Presence: Current Snapshot

Global Production Ranking: 4th, after China, USA, and Japan

Annual Vehicle Production: Nearly 6 million units

Global Auto Components Market: Valued at $2 trillion, with $700 billion in exports

India’s Share in Component Trade: ~$20 billion (~3% share)

India has established a stronghold in the compact and utility vehicle segments, gaining export momentum with models like the Maruti Suzuki Swift and Hyundai i20 being shipped to global markets. Despite this, the country’s penetration into high-precision component manufacturing — such as drive transmissions and engine parts — remains low, accounting for merely 2–4% of the global share.

The Modi Government’s Strategic Push

The Modi government’s consistent policy thrust has created fertile ground for automotive growth:

1. PLI Scheme for Automobiles and Auto Components
The Production-Linked Incentive (PLI) scheme, with an outlay of ₹25,938 crore, is a strategic move by the Modi government to push India’s automotive sector into the era of advanced mobility. By incentivizing the manufacturing of high-tech components like electric powertrains, sensors, and hydrogen fuel cells, the scheme is helping Indian manufacturers scale up their capabilities, attract global OEMs, and shift from volume-based to value-based exports. This initiative is central to making India a globally competitive auto manufacturing destination.

2. National Electric Mobility Mission Plan (NEMMP) and FAME Scheme
To fast-track the adoption of electric vehicles (EVs), the Modi government launched the NEMMP and the FAME schemes. These initiatives provide substantial subsidies for EV buyers, promote localization of components, and facilitate the creation of charging infrastructure. FAME-II, in particular, is driving large-scale EV deployment in public transport and two-wheelers. Together, these schemes are positioning India as a significant player in the global EV supply chain while supporting its sustainability commitments.

3. Vehicle Scrappage Policy
The vehicle scrappage policy, a crucial reform under the Modi government, aims to phase out old, polluting vehicles and replace them with fuel-efficient, eco-friendly models. It stimulates demand for new vehicles, boosts component production, and promotes metal recycling, creating a circular economy within the automotive ecosystem. The policy also opens up new avenues for organized scrappage centres and green mobility entrepreneurship, enhancing environmental as well as economic value.

4. PM Gati Shakti Mission
Logistics and infrastructure have long been bottlenecks for India’s manufacturing sector. The PM Gati Shakti Mission addresses this by integrating highways, ports, railways, and logistics parks into a unified planning framework. By reducing logistics costs and improving time-to-market, this mission strengthens India’s supply chain efficiency. For the automotive sector, where just-in-time delivery and component flow are critical, this reform significantly boosts export competitiveness and domestic operational efficiency.

5. Skill India and SAMARTH Initiatives
Recognizing that human capital is vital for sustaining Industry 4.0 transformation, the Modi government has pushed forward with Skill India and SAMARTH (Smart Advanced Manufacturing and Rapid Transformation Hubs). These initiatives focus on equipping India’s youth with cutting-edge skills in robotics, mechatronics, AI, and automation — essential for modern auto manufacturing and R&D. By building a future-ready workforce, India ensures that its automotive growth is not only driven by machines but also by skilled minds.

These initiatives are not standalone; they converge in creating a globally competitive, digitally enabled, and future-ready automotive ecosystem.

The EV Revolution and Battery Value Chains

One of the most seismic shifts in the industry is the pivot to electric mobility. Driven by rising global demand for sustainable alternatives and carbon neutrality goals, the EV sector is now a battlefield for innovation and global market capture.

India has launched its Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS) policy and is focusing on battery cell manufacturing to reduce import dependence. With government-backed incentives, India is expected to emerge as a competitive player in the lithium-ion battery value chain, positioning itself as a hub for EV components, battery recycling, and energy storage solutions.

Emerging Tech & Industry 4.0: A New Era

Digital transformation is re-defining automotive manufacturing worldwide. India is embracing this wave:

Digital Transformation: Driving the Future of Indian Automotive Manufacturing
As the global automotive industry undergoes a paradigm shift driven by digital innovation, India is rapidly embracing Industry 4.0 to stay competitive and future-ready. Digital transformation is not just an add-on; it is becoming central to how vehicles are designed, developed, and manufactured. Under the conducive policy environment shaped by the Modi government, Indian automotive hubs are becoming testbeds for smart, data-driven production systems.

Smart Factories Leading the Revolution
Industrial clusters in Pune, Chennai, Sanand, and Hosur are now home to Smart Factories that integrate AI, IoT, Machine Learning, and robotics. These technologies are automating precision-heavy processes, enabling real-time monitoring, predictive maintenance, and flexible production lines. Smart manufacturing is minimizing downtime, enhancing efficiency, and allowing quick adaptations to changing consumer demands — key to thriving in global value chains.

Digital Twin and 3D Printing: Speed Meets Precision
Digital twin technologies, which create real-time virtual replicas of physical systems, are revolutionizing prototyping and testing phases in automotive development. Alongside, 3D printing (additive manufacturing) is cutting down lead times for tool and component development while improving quality and customization. This not only reduces production costs but also boosts India’s capability in rapid design-to-market transitions — a crucial advantage in today’s agile global markets.

Connected and Autonomous Vehicles: India’s Next Leap
The rise of connected vehicles, telematics, and autonomous driving technologies is opening new innovation frontiers for Indian OEMs, startups, and global MNCs. From in-car infotainment to ADAS (Advanced Driver-Assistance Systems), Indian firms are developing critical tech that powers the mobility of tomorrow. The Modi government’s push for indigenous tech development, 5G rollout, and startup incentives is catalyzing this digital automotive ecosystem.

A New Era of Innovation and Global Relevance
Digital transformation is redefining not just how India makes cars but also how it competes globally. The convergence of hardware and software, along with supportive initiatives like the Digital India mission, is enabling Indian manufacturers to leapfrog legacy challenges. With a growing digital talent pool, progressive regulation, and integrated infrastructure, India is well-positioned to lead in the next era of smart mobility and digital manufacturing.

NITI Aayog’s emphasis on R&D, IP transfer, and international branding is aimed at pushing India up the complexity ladder from conventional simple parts to emerging complex components like semiconductors, LIDAR systems, and e-powertrains.

Challenges to Address

Despite the strong foundation, India must overcome key roadblocks to scale its GVC presence:

1. Moderate R&D Spending Limits Innovation Edge
Despite its scale, India’s automotive sector suffers from low investment in research and development. India allocates only about 0.3% of its GDP to R&D, significantly lower than the ~2% average in advanced economies like Germany, South Korea, or Japan — all global leaders in automobile innovation. This restricts India’s capacity to develop cutting-edge automotive technologies such as EV batteries, autonomous systems, or high-precision components. For India to move up the global value chain, there is an urgent need to boost public-private R&D collaboration, incentivize indigenous innovation, and facilitate knowledge transfer through global partnerships.

2. Operational Costs and Logistics Inefficiencies Hinder Competitiveness
India’s average logistics cost remains high at 13–14% of GDP, compared to 8–10% in developed economies. Poor last-mile connectivity, inadequate multimodal transport integration, and bureaucratic hurdles increase lead times and cost overruns, affecting India’s attractiveness as a manufacturing hub. Although infrastructure missions like Gati Shakti and Bharatmala are addressing these gaps, the sector needs faster execution, deeper integration with industrial corridors, and increased adoption of digital logistics platforms to improve supply chain reliability and reduce operational costs.

3. Weak Integration into High-Value Global Clusters
India’s presence in global automotive value chains is largely confined to low and mid-tier segments, such as basic castings or wiring harnesses. High-value clusters — like those producing advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS), engine control units (ECUs), or precision gearboxes — are dominated by North America, Europe, and East Asia. India’s limited participation in these premium segments is a result of both technical capability constraints and lack of sustained international partnerships. Bridging this gap requires focused investment in design engineering, strategic FTAs, and the creation of specialized export-oriented component clusters.

4. Component Standardization and Testing Gaps
India faces a major hurdle in terms of inadequate component standardization and quality assurance infrastructure, which weakens the global credibility of its exports. Unlike markets with strong homologation systems and internationally accredited labs, Indian firms often struggle with fragmented certification processes and suboptimal testing facilities. This not only delays time-to-market but also reduces acceptability in high-regulation markets like the EU or US. Strengthening testing labs, benchmarking quality standards with global norms, and empowering industry-led quality certification initiatives will be vital to boost export performance.

Vision 2030: Driving Towards $145 Billion Component Production

1. Auto Component Production to Surge to $145 Billion
India’s automotive ecosystem is gearing up for a massive leap, targeting a production value of $145 billion in auto components by 2030. This signifies not only a push for scale but also a shift towards high-value, technologically advanced components. To achieve this, the focus will be on enhancing domestic manufacturing capabilities, increasing localization of critical parts, and driving innovation through better tooling, capital investment, and collaborative R&D. This milestone would mark India’s arrival as a serious contender in global auto manufacturing.

2. Tripling Exports to $60 Billion – From Assembler to Export Powerhouse
Currently standing at approximately $20 billion, India’s auto component exports are set to triple to $60 billion by 2030. This export surge will be driven by a sharper focus on quality, aggressive global marketing, robust supplier ecosystems, and adherence to international standards. India’s small car and utility vehicle segments are already popular overseas; expanding into premium and EV components will enhance India’s credibility as a diversified automotive export hub. This would significantly improve India’s trade balance and integrate the country more deeply into global markets.

3. Creating 3–4 Million Direct Jobs, with 2–2.5 Million New Ones
The growth in automotive production and exports will translate into substantial employment opportunities. The sector is expected to create 2 to 2.5 million new direct jobs, increasing total direct employment to 3–4 million by 2030. Beyond manufacturing, jobs will also be created in allied sectors such as R&D, design engineering, logistics, and digital automotive services. Upskilling initiatives under Skill India and SAMARTH will play a critical role in aligning workforce competencies with Industry 4.0 demands and sustaining inclusive growth.

4. Expanding GVC Participation from 3% to 8%
India currently holds a 3% share in the global automotive value chain (GVC), largely limited to low-value components. The goal for 2030 is to raise this share to 8%, positioning India as a strategic hub for global OEMs and Tier-1 suppliers. This will be achieved through better infrastructure, deeper supply chain integration, cluster-based industrial development, and a policy ecosystem that promotes competitiveness. A higher GVC share will not only boost exports but also lead to increased inward FDI and technology transfer.

5. Becoming a Net Exporter – Reducing Trade Deficits
With rising domestic production and robust export capabilities, India aims to transition from a trade deficit to a trade surplus in the automotive sector. The expected export value of $60 billion will outpace imports, allowing India to become a net exporter of auto components and EV parts. This shift will enhance the country’s macroeconomic resilience, reduce dependency on specific geographies for critical imports, and strengthen its voice in international trade negotiations.

A Fast Lane to Viksit Bharat

The Modi government’s strategic foresight, backed by policy alignment and execution agility, is shifting India’s automotive sector into high gear. With focused interventions in R&D, skilling, infrastructure, and global partnerships, India is all set to leapfrog from a cost-competitive hub to an innovation-led, export-oriented manufacturing powerhouse.

The journey from factory floors to global headlines is not just a slogan—it is becoming India’s automotive reality. With the right fuel of reforms, the right steering of policies, and the accelerator of private sector innovation, India’s auto industry is truly powering the nation’s integration into global value chains—and driving the engine of Viksit Bharat forward.

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Under Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership, the Indian silk industry has emerged as a symbol of self-reliance (Atmanirbharta) and cultural pride. Government initiatives like Silk Samagra, RMSS, NHDP, and SAMARTH have not only revitalized the silk economy but also empowered artisans and weavers with dignity and prosperity.

Silk in India is more than just a fabric—it’s a story spun with culture, tradition, craftsmanship, and pride. For millennia, Indian silk has dazzled the world, woven into the identities of Kanchipuram, Banaras, Bhagalpur, and Assam. Every saree, every thread carries the legacy of a civilization rooted in aesthetics and spirituality. But beyond heritage, silk is also an instrument of economic empowerment and rural employment—a fact that the Modi government has astutely recognized and supported through robust schemes, infrastructural investments, and strategic vision.

Today, India stands tall as the second-largest producer and the largest consumer of silk in the world. Under the Modi administration, the Indian silk industry has not only preserved its cultural sheen but also embraced modernization and scalability to serve the needs of Atmanirbhar Bharat.

India’s Journey Through Sericulture: A Story Spun by Nature and Nurture

Sericulture—the cultivation of silkworms—is the heartbeat of the silk industry. The humble silkworm, feeding exclusively on mulberry leaves, spins its cocoon which is then transformed into threads of lustrous silk. The life cycle of these moths becomes the lifeline for thousands of rural households.

India is unique in producing all four major varieties of silk:

• Mulberry (92% of total production)
• Tasar (Tussar)
• Eri
• Muga (exclusive to Assam)

Mulberry silk is cultivated in southern states like Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh, and West Bengal, while non-mulberry or Vanya silk thrives in the tribal belts of Jharkhand, Odisha, Chhattisgarh, and the North-East—regions where sericulture is not just livelihood but a way of life.

Silk as a Rural Economic Engine

India’s silk industry supports over 9.1 million people across the value chain, most of whom are women and rural artisans. The sector has a powerful ripple effect—strengthening livelihoods, empowering women, and preserving indigenous knowledge systems.

According to the Central Silk Board (CSB) and data from the Ministry of Textiles:

• India’s raw silk production rose from 31,906 MT in 2017–18 to 38,913 MT in 2023–24.
• Area under mulberry cultivation increased from 2.23 lakh hectares to 2.63 lakh hectares over the same period.
• Exports of silk and silk goods increased from ₹1,649.48 crores in 2017–18 to ₹2,027.56 crores in 2023–24.

Such robust growth highlights the silent yet substantial transformation happening under the aegis of government policy.

Silk Waste: From Byproduct to Opportunity

Even the so-called waste in silk—broken or irregular threads—is being leveraged for production of spun silk and recycled products. In 2023–24 alone, India exported 3,348 MT of silk waste, turning what was once discarded into a revenue-generating opportunity. This aligns with the government’s focus on sustainability and circular economy.

Modi Government’s Interventions: Catalyzing a Silk Revolution

Recognizing silk’s importance, the Modi government has undertaken a strategic and scientific overhaul of the sector with a mix of policy support, budget allocations, and skill development.

1. Silk Samagra & Silk Samagra-2

The flagship initiative, Silk Samagra launched during the Modi government’s first term, was designed as an umbrella scheme to integrate the entire silk value chain from farm to fabric. Its four components include:

• R&D, training, IT initiatives
• Strengthening seed organizations
• Market development
• Export brand promotion and quality certification

Silk Samagra-2 (2021–22 to 2025–26) continues this legacy with a sanctioned budget of ₹4,679.85 crore, out of which ₹1,075.58 crore has already been disbursed. More than 78,000 sericulturists and artisans have directly benefited from this scheme.

For instance, Andhra Pradesh received ₹72.5 crore and Telangana ₹40.66 crore in recent years, reflecting region-specific empowerment.

2. Raw Material Supply Scheme (RMSS)

Under RMSS, the government facilitated subsidized yarn supply to weavers, ensuring that cost does not become a barrier to productivity. In FY 2023–24 alone, 340 lakh kg of yarn was distributed—an unprecedented number.

3. National Handloom Development Programme (NHDP)

Silk weavers have also been integrated into NHDP, which offers support for:

• Raw materials
• Design and product innovation
• Market exposure through exhibitions
• Permanent infrastructure like Urban Haats

This scheme encourages both traditional handloom clusters and Self-Help Groups, ensuring grassroots participation in India’s economic growth.

4. SAMARTH Scheme: Skill for Prosperity

The Scheme for Capacity Building in Textile Sector (SAMARTH) has been extended till 2025–26 with a budget of ₹495 crore. The focus on silk, jute, and handloom training—especially for youth and women—makes this scheme a bridge between tradition and modernity.

The aim is to train 3 lakh individuals, creating a new generation of skilled artisans who can compete globally while preserving India’s artistic legacy.

A Glimpse into the Future: India’s Silk Dreams

Despite accounting for just 0.2% of global textile volume, silk represents a high-value niche. India’s competitive advantage lies not in mass production but in quality, diversity, and artistry.

The Modi government’s focus on:

• Digital marketing platforms for handloom weavers
• Export promotion councils
• Financial inclusion through PM Mudra Yojana
• Support for tribal sericulture under Van Dhan Yojana

All converge to build an ecosystem where Indian silk can thrive globally while nurturing rural livelihoods.

India’s entry into free trade agreements (FTAs) with countries like Australia and the UAE is also expected to open newer markets for silk-based garments and luxury goods.

From Loom to Global Legacy

Under Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership, the Indian silk industry has emerged as a symbol of self-reliance (Atmanirbharta) and cultural pride. Government initiatives like Silk Samagra, RMSS, NHDP, and SAMARTH have not only revitalized the silk economy but also empowered artisans and weavers with dignity and prosperity.

The growth in production, exports, and employment stands as a testament to the success of a development model that is both inclusive and sustainable.

India, with its blend of heritage and innovation, is well on its way to becoming not just a silk superpower—but a custodian of a timeless tradition that continues to dazzle the world, one saree at a time.

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According to industry estimates, for every ₹1 crore investment in plastic manufacturing, approximately 7–8 direct jobs and 20–25 indirect jobs are created. Plastics contribute to over ₹3 lakh crore to India’s manufacturing GDP, forming an important backbone of several sunrise sectors. 

India’s journey toward becoming a global manufacturing hub has witnessed strategic interventions in various sectors, including the dynamic and vital plastics industry. One of the landmark initiatives driving this transformation is the establishment of Plastic Parks under the visionary leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Anchored by the Department of Chemicals and Petro-Chemicals, this flagship initiative under the New Scheme of Petrochemicals is helping consolidate the fragmented plastics processing sector into a robust, innovation-led, and sustainable industrial ecosystem.

Understanding Plastic Parks: A Transformative Industrial Vision

With rising incomes, urbanization, and a booming middle class, the demand for plastic-based products in sectors such as packaging, automotive, healthcare, agriculture, electronics, textiles, and construction is increasing rapidly. India currently ranks 12th globally in plastic exports (as per World Bank, 2022), having grown from USD 8.2 billion in 2014 to USD 27 billion in 2022. This growth is propelled by Make in India, export facilitation, and improving infrastructure like Plastic Parks.

Massive Employment Potential: The plastic processing sector is labour-intensive, especially in downstream applications such as molding, packaging, and fabrication. According to industry estimates, for every ₹1 crore investment in plastic manufacturing, approximately 7–8 direct jobs and 20–25 indirect jobs are created.

India has more than 50,000 plastic processing units, with over 90% being MSMEs. They lack standalone access to high-end infrastructure, testing facilities, or R&D. Plastic Parks provide shared infrastructure, recycling facilities, ETPs, and logistics hubs, enabling small units to become globally competitive. State incentives within these parks—including land at subsidized rates, tax holidays, and plug-and-play setups—make them fertile ground for first-generation entrepreneurs.

Plastics contribute to over ₹3 lakh crore to India’s manufacturing GDP, forming an important backbone of several sunrise sectors.

A Plastic Park is a specialized industrial zone tailored to host plastic processing and allied industries. The scheme is designed to provide state-of-the-art infrastructure, enable common facilities, promote economies of scale through cluster-based development, and address critical gaps in supply chains and value addition.

At its core, the initiative aims to:

• Synergize domestic capacities of the downstream plastics processing sector.
• Attract private investment by offering a ready ecosystem.
• Enhance exports, production quality, and efficiency.
• Generate employment and create a skilled workforce.
• Promote sustainability via plastic waste management, recycling, and circular economy integration.

Under the scheme, the Government of India provides grant funding of up to 50% of the project cost, with a ceiling of ₹40 crore per project — a substantial push to encourage state participation and private enterprise.

From Vision to Reality: Plastic Parks Across India

So far, 10 Plastic Parks have been approved and funded across various states in India, emerging as dedicated hubs of industrial growth and innovation. Each park is managed by a Special Purpose Vehicle (SPV) responsible for its implementation and operations, ensuring focused development. The strategic objective of these parks is to build a robust and sustainable polymer ecosystem that supports India’s growing industrial demands while addressing environmental concerns. The plastics sector in India has witnessed remarkable growth—more than tripling since 2014—with exports rising from USD 8.2 billion to over USD 27 billion in 2022, as per World Bank data. A significant driver of this expansion has been the Plastic Parks scheme, which addresses critical structural and sustainability challenges within the sector.

One of the major challenges tackled by the scheme is fragmentation. By consolidating scattered small and medium enterprises into organized clusters within these parks, the initiative fosters a more unified and efficient production environment. Additionally, the scheme addresses infrastructure gaps by ensuring the availability of essential facilities like effluent treatment plants, solid and hazardous waste management systems, incineration units, and centralized recycling units. These features support sustainability through the promotion of circular economy practices, such as in-house recycling and compliance with Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) norms. The vision of the Plastic Parks aligns seamlessly with national initiatives like Atmanirbhar Bharat and Make in India, contributing to self-reliance while enhancing India’s global competitiveness in the plastics sector.

Innovation through Knowledge: Centres of Excellence (CoEs)

A major strength of the Modi government’s approach to the development of the plastics and petrochemical sector lies not only in the creation of physical infrastructure but also in the investment in intellectual capital. Recognizing the importance of research and innovation, the Department of Chemicals and Petro-Chemicals has established 13 Centres of Excellence (CoEs) in collaboration with premier institutions such as the IITs, CIPET, and CSIR laboratories. These centers are at the forefront of driving advanced research and development in the field of polymers.

The CoEs focus on key areas such as green materials and sustainable polymers, biomedical devices, specialty coatings, advanced polymeric design, and wastewater management in petrochemical industries. Through their work, these centers are fostering innovation and promoting entrepreneurship by acting as incubators for future-ready polymer solutions. This integrated focus on both infrastructure and intellectual growth ensures that India not only meets its domestic demands but also becomes a global leader in polymer-based technologies.

Skill Development: Empowering the Workforce of Tomorrow

A robust industrial ecosystem cannot thrive without skilled human capital, and in this regard, the Central Institute of Petrochemical Engineering and Technology (CIPET) plays a pivotal role. It provides a range of short-term and long-term training programs, tailored to meet the evolving needs of the plastic and petrochemical industries. CIPET also offers industry-specific technical education, ensuring that students and professionals receive targeted knowledge relevant to current industrial demands.

In addition to classroom learning, CIPET emphasizes hands-on exposure to processing technologies, allowing trainees to gain practical experience with modern machinery and systems. This holistic approach ensures that India’s plastic industry benefits from a steady supply of trained professionals who are not only technically competent but also well-versed in the latest global technologies and sustainability practices.

Sustainability and Global Alignment

The Modi government has ensured that the Plastic Parks initiative doesn’t compromise environmental responsibility. Complementary policies include:

• Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) for plastic packaging
• Hazardous Waste Management Rules
• Promotion of biodegradable alternatives
• Bans on certain single-use plastics
• Circular economy promotion through exhibitions and dialogues
• Engagement with global platforms like WTO, UNEP, ISO

These measures ensure that India’s polymer sector aligns with global environmental standards, making Indian products more acceptable and competitive internationally.

Start of A New Era for India’s Plastics Sector

The Plastic Parks scheme represents a transformational leap in India’s industrial policy — one that combines economic growth, infrastructure development, innovation, employment generation, and environmental stewardship. Through strategic state and central collaboration, backed by visionary leadership under Prime Minister Modi, India is not only unlocking the full potential of its plastics sector but doing so in a sustainable and future-ready manner.

As India moves towards becoming a global manufacturing powerhouse, the role of initiatives like the Plastic Parks Scheme will remain pivotal. It is a shining example of how industrial policy and environmental consciousness can coexist — and thrive — in a Viksit Bharat.

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India has been UNICEF’s largest vaccine supplier for the past six to seven years, contributing 55% to 60% of total volume procured contributing 99%, 52% and 45% of the WHO demand for DPT, BCG and the measles vaccines, respectively.

India’s emergence as the “Pharmacy of the World” is not a coincidence but a well-orchestrated outcome of strategic policy reforms, industrial encouragement, and a robust regulatory environment under the Make in India initiative. Spearheaded by the visionary leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, this initiative has significantly reshaped the Indian pharmaceutical and medical devices industry—propelling it toward self-reliance, innovation, and global competitiveness.

The Production Linked Incentive (PLI) Schemes, introduced under the Make in India and Atmanirbhar Bharat vision of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, have emerged as transformative policy instruments to enhance India’s manufacturing ecosystem, reduce import dependency, and project India as a globally competitive manufacturing hub. Launched in 2020 across multiple sectors, these schemes specifically designed for pharmaceuticals, medical devices, and critical drug intermediates have reinvigorated domestic industries, catalyzed foreign and domestic investment, and promoted high-value innovation.

India’s Growing Global Footprint in Pharmaceuticals

Make in India Boost to Medical Devices Sector

The medical devices industry, a critical pillar of the healthcare ecosystem, has experienced a significant transformation and rapid growth under the progressive policy framework of the Modi government. Recognizing the sector’s pivotal role in ensuring quality healthcare delivery—from early diagnosis to advanced treatment—the government has actively encouraged domestic manufacturing, technology adoption, and foreign investments. This comprehensive support has helped shift the industry from being import-dependent to becoming increasingly self-reliant and globally competitive.

Between April and December 2024 alone, the sector attracted Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) worth ₹11,888 crore, reflecting growing international confidence in India’s meditech landscape. The Department of Pharmaceuticals, operating under the Ministry of Chemicals and Fertilizers, has played a facilitative role in reviewing and approving investment proposals that align with national priorities. As part of this effort, 13 FDI proposals amounting to ₹7,246 crore were approved in brownfield projects during the same period, reinforcing the government’s commitment to revitalizing existing facilities and upgrading them to meet global standards.

Beyond capital inflow, there has been a concerted push to strengthen indigenous capabilities in the manufacturing of high-end and critical medical equipment. Indian manufacturers, supported by schemes like the Production Linked Incentive (PLI) for medical devices, have expanded production capacities in key segments such as radiology equipment, cancer diagnostics, imaging solutions, and implantable devices. This strategic development not only enhances access to cutting-edge medical technologies within the country but also positions India as a viable alternative to traditional global suppliers.

Production Linked Incentive (PLI) Schemes: Game-Changers

The PLI Scheme for Pharmaceuticals, approved by the Union Cabinet in 2021 with a substantial financial outlay of ₹15,000 crore, is a bold initiative to incentivize domestic manufacturers to expand production of high-value pharmaceutical products. Spanning from FY 2022–23 to FY 2027–28, the scheme provides performance-linked financial incentives to 55 selected companies, chosen for their capability to produce globally competitive pharmaceutical products.

This scheme strategically focuses on three product categories, including biopharmaceuticals, complex generics, anti-cancer drugs, autoimmune medications, and repurposed drugs—areas with high export potential and clinical significance. By encouraging domestic production in these critical areas, the government aims not only to improve India’s self-reliance in pharmaceutical innovation but also to boost exports to regulated markets such as the US, EU, and Japan. The scheme further promotes the development of a robust R&D ecosystem, reduces India’s dependence on imports for high-value formulations, and enhances long-term competitiveness in the global pharma market.

PLI Scheme for Key Starting Materials (KSMs), Drug Intermediates (DIs), and Active Pharmaceutical Ingredients (APIs)

Recognizing India’s historic overdependence on imports, particularly from China, for key raw materials used in drug manufacturing, the government launched the PLI Scheme for KSMs, DIs, and APIs in 2020 with an outlay of ₹6,940 crore. This initiative, covering the period from FY 2020–21 to FY 2029–30, focuses on encouraging the domestic production of 41 essential bulk drugs, which form the backbone of India’s pharmaceutical manufacturing.

The scheme has delivered commendable results. As of December 2024, the actual investment realized under the scheme stood at ₹4,253.92 crore, surpassing the initial commitment of ₹3,938 crore—demonstrating the industry’s overwhelming response and trust in the government’s vision. A total of 34 projects have been commissioned, covering 25 critical bulk drugs, which are now being manufactured domestically.

Among the most significant projects are the Penicillin G project in Kakinada, Andhra Pradesh, with an investment of ₹1,910 crore, expected to substitute imports worth ₹2,700 crore annually, and the Clavulanic Acid project in Nalagarh, Himachal Pradesh, involving ₹450 crore of investment, expected to offset imports worth ₹600 crore per annum. These projects not only reduce India’s strategic vulnerabilities but also create a dependable domestic value chain in pharmaceuticals.

PLI Scheme for Medical Devices

The PLI Scheme for Medical Devices, launched in FY 2020-21 with a total outlay of ₹3,420 crore, addresses another critical segment of India’s healthcare sector. Until recently, India imported nearly 85% of its high-end medical equipment, posing both economic and strategic challenges. This scheme targets this imbalance by providing manufacturers with 5% incentive on incremental sales of eligible medical devices produced domestically.

The scheme covers advanced product segments such as radiology and imaging equipment, cancer care and radiotherapy devices, anesthetics and cardio-respiratory medical devices, and implants. Structured across two applicant categories, the incentive structure is designed to support both established and emerging players:

• Category A: Up to ₹121 crore per applicant over five years
• Category B: Up to ₹40 crore per applicant over five years

The scheme has already begun catalyzing the domestic production of complex and high-value devices, thereby reducing dependence on imports and creating a globally competitive meditech manufacturing ecosystem. Additionally, it strengthens ancillary industries and fosters skill development among healthcare professionals and biomedical engineers.

Promotion of Bulk Drug Parks

To further bring down manufacturing costs and fortify India’s pharmaceutical supply chains, the Government of India launched the Bulk Drug Parks Scheme in 2020 with a total financial outlay of ₹3,000 crore. This forward-looking initiative aims to create specialized industrial clusters equipped with state-of-the-art infrastructure, facilitating the large-scale production of bulk drugs, also known as Active Pharmaceutical Ingredients (APIs), which are essential components in drug formulation.

Under the scheme, three states—Gujarat, Himachal Pradesh, and Andhra Pradesh—have been approved for the establishment of bulk drug parks. Each park is eligible to receive financial assistance of up to ₹1,000 crore, with the government covering up to 70% of the project cost in general states and up to 90% in Northeastern and hilly states. This high level of support ensures that manufacturers can access shared facilities such as common effluent treatment plants, solvent recovery units, captive power plants, warehousing, and testing labs—thereby dramatically reducing production costs and improving operational efficiency.

These parks are designed not just as production zones but as innovation-driven, cost-efficient ecosystems, promoting collaborative manufacturing and economies of scale. By consolidating production in well-equipped clusters, the scheme is expected to significantly reduce India’s import dependency for critical APIs, many of which were historically sourced from countries like China. In line with the Make in India and Atmanirbhar Bharat visions, the Bulk Drug Parks will play a pivotal role in building a resilient and self-reliant pharmaceutical supply chain, making India a globally dependable source of essential bulk drugs.

Pradhan Mantri Bhartiya Janaushadhi Pariyojana (PMBJP)

A shining example of inclusive and people-centric health policy, the Pradhan Mantri Bhartiya Janaushadhi Pariyojana (PMBJP) has transformed access to affordable healthcare across India. Anchored in the principle that quality medicines should not be a luxury but a right, the initiative ensures the widespread availability of quality-assured generic medicines at significantly lower prices compared to branded equivalents. As of April 8, 2025, the reach of this initiative has expanded remarkably, with over 15,479 Jan Aushadhi Kendras established across the country, spanning urban centers to the remotest corners of rural India.

The PMBJP operates with a multi-pronged strategy aimed at creating a sustainable and accessible healthcare ecosystem. One of its key pillars is public awareness—actively dispelling misconceptions around generic medicines and educating citizens that lower cost does not imply lower quality. The scheme also focuses on transforming prescribing behavior by encouraging doctors and healthcare providers, particularly in government hospitals and dispensaries, to recommend affordable generic alternatives without compromising therapeutic efficacy.

Equally significant is the scheme’s focus on last-mile delivery. Through its vast network of Jan Aushadhi Kendras, it ensures the timely availability of essential medicines even in underserved and remote regions, where access to healthcare remains a challenge. These Kendras are not just retail outlets but symbols of health equity, offering more than 1,800 types of drugs and surgical products at affordable prices.

Under the visionary leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, PMBJP stands as a powerful testament to the government’s commitment to inclusive growth, health equity, and social justice. By bridging the affordability gap and promoting rational drug use, the scheme has not only lightened the financial burden on millions of families but has also strengthened public trust in India’s healthcare system.

SPI Scheme & Rising Innovation and R&D Capabilities

The Strengthening of Pharmaceuticals Industry (SPI) Scheme is a critical component of the Government of India’s broader strategy to enhance the resilience, innovation, and global competitiveness of the pharmaceutical sector. With an outlay of ₹500 crore for the period FY 2021–22 to FY 2025–26, the scheme provides targeted support to small and medium enterprises (SMEs) that form the backbone of India’s pharma manufacturing landscape. Through capacity-building initiatives, regulatory system upgrades, and the development of common testing and training facilities, the SPI Scheme aims to uplift the entire pharma value chain by fostering quality, compliance, and sustainable manufacturing practices.

One of the key objectives of the SPI Scheme is to facilitate technological modernization and regulatory harmonization, especially for SMEs that often lack the infrastructure to meet evolving global standards. By funding common facilities and offering technical assistance, the scheme promotes a shared innovation environment where smaller players can thrive alongside larger pharmaceutical giants. This approach ensures a more inclusive industrial ecosystem, aligned with the Make in India vision of empowering domestic industries at all levels.

In tandem with these capacity-building efforts, India’s pharmaceutical sector is undergoing a dynamic transformation in research and innovation, supported by bold and forward-thinking policies of the Modi government. India is no longer seen merely as a manufacturer of low-cost generics but is increasingly positioning itself as a hub for biopharma innovation and advanced healthcare technologies. The rise of biopharmaceutical startups has been particularly notable, with many leveraging indigenous talent and global collaborations to create cutting-edge solutions for both domestic and international markets.

Further bolstering this innovation ecosystem is the integration of digital health tools, which is transforming healthcare delivery, data management, and patient outcomes. In parallel, the development of a more robust clinical trial infrastructure is attracting global pharmaceutical companies to conduct trials in India, given the regulatory clarity, scientific talent, and cost advantages the country offers.

Crucially, India’s collaboration with leading international health agencies like the World Health Organization (WHO), UNICEF, and GAVI has not only elevated its role as a global public health contributor but also opened new avenues for technology transfer, quality benchmarking, and joint research. These engagements underscore the growing confidence in India’s scientific and regulatory capabilities.

Under the expansive umbrella of Make in India, the nation is transitioning from being a volume-centric producer to a value-driven innovator. The government’s emphasis on R&D, coupled with supportive infrastructure and international cooperation, is redefining India’s pharmaceutical identity—from a generic manufacturer to a global leader in drug discovery, biosciences, and healthcare innovation. This evolution marks a significant leap forward in realizing the vision of Viksit Bharat, powered by self-reliant and future-ready pharma capabilities.

A Visionary Leap Toward Viksit Bharat

The transformation of India’s pharmaceutical sector under the Make in India initiative is a landmark achievement in self-reliance, health security, and global outreach. With focused schemes like PLI, Bulk Drug Parks, and PMBJP, the Modi government has empowered India to emerge as a trusted global health partner, delivering high-quality medicines and devices at scale and speed.

As India moves toward Viksit Bharat@2047, the pharmaceutical and medical devices sectors will serve as pillars of growth, innovation, and diplomacy—proving that Make in India is not just a slogan, but a global strategy reshaping the future of health.

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PM-PRANAM which promotes chemical-free farming using indigenous techniques like cow-based farming, composting, and bio-inputs. This initiative also complements PM-KISAN, which provides direct income support of ₹6,000 per year to small and marginal farmers.

The PM Programme for Restoration, Awareness Generation, Nourishment, and Amelioration of Mother-Earth (PM-PRANAM) is a visionary initiative launched by the Narendra Modi government to preserve soil health, promote sustainable agriculture, and reduce dependency on chemical fertilizers. Approved by the Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs (CCEA) on June 28, 2023, the program is designed to encourage balanced fertilizer use, adoption of organic alternatives, and resource conservation technologies, ensuring a greener and healthier future for India.

Key Objectives of PM-PRANAM

PM-PRANAM seeks to address multiple challenges in Indian agriculture, focusing on:

Reduction in Chemical Fertilizer Consumption

14 states have collectively reduced their chemical fertilizer usage by 15.14 LMT (Lakh Metric Tonnes) in FY 2023-24 when compared to the average consumption over the previous three financial years. This reduction is crucial as excessive chemical fertilizer use leads to soil degradation, groundwater contamination, and environmental hazards. By shifting towards organic and bio-fertilizers, farmers can maintain soil fertility while reducing long-term dependence on chemical inputs.

Incentive-Based Approach for States

To encourage participation, the Modi government has introduced a financial incentive mechanism. States receive 50% of the subsidy amount saved due to reduced fertilizer consumption, which can be reinvested into agriculture, organic farming initiatives, and farmer welfare programs. This creates a win-win situation—reducing the financial burden on the government (by cutting fertilizer subsidies) while motivating states to adopt sustainable agricultural practices.

Alignment with Other Key Agricultural Policies

National Mission on Natural Farming (NMNF): PM-PRANAM works in tandem with NMNF, which promotes chemical-free farming using indigenous techniques like cow-based farming, composting, and bio-inputs. PM-KISAN: The initiative also complements PM-KISAN, which provides direct income support of ₹6,000 per year to small and marginal farmers. Other Farmer-Centric Policies: The program aligns with Bhartiya Prakritik Krishi Paddhati (BPKP) and Paramparagat Krishi Vikas Yojana (PKVY), both of which promote organic farming practices.

Impact and Achievements

Since its launch, PM-PRANAM has already started delivering significant results:

• 14 states have reduced chemical fertilizer consumption by 15.14 LMT (Lakh Metric Tonnes) in FY 2023-24 compared to the previous three-year average.
• States receive 50% of the fertilizer subsidy saved as an incentive, encouraging further participation in sustainable agricultural practices.
• The initiative supports the National Mission on Natural Farming (NMNF) and aligns with PM-KISAN and other farmer-centric policies.

The Growing Shift Towards Sustainable Agriculture

The Modi government has been actively promoting organic and natural farming through initiatives such as:

1. Paramparagat Krishi Vikas Yojana (PKVY) – Encouraging Traditional Organic Farming

Launched: 2015 under the National Mission for Sustainable Agriculture (NMSA)
Objective: Promote cluster-based organic farming, reduce the use of synthetic fertilizers, and enhance soil health.
Implementation:

• Farmers are organized into clusters (20-hectare units) to adopt organic farming practices.
• Financial assistance of ₹50,000 per hectare for a 3-year period to cover organic inputs like bio-fertilizers, compost, and certification.
• Encourages local marketing of organic produce through direct farmer-consumer linkages.

Impact:

• Over 30 lakh hectares of farmland brought under organic farming.
• Strengthened the Organic Certification System, helping Indian farmers access export markets.

2. Bhartiya Prakritik Krishi Paddhati (BPKP) – Supporting Chemical-Free Farming

Launched: 2020 under the National Mission on Natural Farming (NMNF)
Objective: Promote zero-budget natural farming (ZBNF) using indigenous techniques to reduce dependency on chemical fertilizers and pesticides.
Key Features:

• Encourages use of cow dung, cow urine, compost, and natural bio-stimulants for soil enrichment.
• No external chemical inputs—ensures sustainable and low-cost farming.
• Focus on resource conservation technologies (such as water-efficient irrigation and crop rotation).

Impact:

• Implemented in 8 states, covering over 4 lakh hectares.
• Reduced input costs, improved farmer incomes, and enhanced climate resilience.

3. Nano Urea Introduction – A Revolutionary Step to Reduce Dependency on Conventional Urea

Launched by: Indian Farmers Fertiliser Cooperative Limited (IFFCO) in 2021
Objective: Provide an efficient, cost-effective, and eco-friendly alternative to conventional urea.
How It Works:

• Liquid Nano Urea (LNU) is sprayed directly on leaves, allowing better nitrogen absorption compared to granular urea.
• A 500ml bottle of Nano Urea replaces a 50kg bag of traditional urea, reducing wastage and pollution.

Benefits:

• Improves nutrient efficiency by 80% compared to conventional urea.
• Reduces input costs for farmers, as Nano Urea is cheaper and requires lower quantities per acre.
• Cuts nitrogen pollution, preventing groundwater contamination and soil degradation.

Impact:

• Over 5 crore Nano Urea bottles sold, replacing nearly 25 million tonnes of conventional urea.
• Exported to 25+ countries, positioning India as a global leader in agri-innovation.

According to government reports:

• Over 4 lakh hectares of land have been brought under organic farming.
• More than 30 lakh farmers have adopted natural farming methods.
• The adoption of bio-fertilizers has led to an estimated 20% reduction in soil degradation.

Economic and Environmental Benefits

The economic and environmental benefits of PM-PRANAM are far-reaching:

• Reduces import dependency on costly fertilizers, saving forex reserves.
• Enhances soil fertility and biodiversity, improving long-term productivity.
• Mitigates groundwater contamination caused by excessive chemical fertilizer use.
• Boosts income for farmers practicing organic farming by providing premium market opportunities.

The Road Ahead

While PM-PRANAM has made remarkable strides, challenges remain, particularly in states like Rajasthan, which has not yet achieved a reduction in chemical fertilizer use. The government aims to:

• Expand farmer awareness programs on sustainable farming techniques.
• Encourage private sector participation in the organic fertilizer market.
• Increase research and innovation in bio-fertilizers and sustainable agriculture technologies.

PM-PRANAM is a pioneering initiative that reflects Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s commitment to sustainable and environmentally responsible agriculture. By reducing chemical fertilizer dependence, promoting organic alternatives, and rewarding responsible states, the program is shaping India’s agricultural future. With continued efforts and greater participation, India is on track to becoming a global leader in sustainable farming, aligning with the vision of Viksit Bharat 2047.

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The AI-driven chatbot ‘Kisan e-Mitra’ is a multilingual chatbot addresses over 20,000 queries daily and has resolved 92 lakh queries to date, making government support more accessible and farmer-friendly.

Agriculture remains the backbone of India’s economy, supporting nearly 60% of the population. However, the sector faces persistent challenges such as unpredictable weather patterns, pest infestations, declining soil fertility, and inefficient supply chain mechanisms. Recognizing these issues, the Narendra Modi government has leveraged Artificial Intelligence (AI) to introduce groundbreaking solutions that enhance productivity, reduce losses, and empower farmers. AI-driven initiatives, coupled with digital transformation, have positioned India as a global leader in agricultural innovation.

AI Initiatives in Indian Agriculture

The Modi government has integrated AI into various agricultural processes to improve efficiency and ensure sustainable farming. Some of the most impactful initiatives include:

1. Kisan e-Mitra: AI-Powered Chatbot for Farmers

The AI-driven chatbot ‘Kisan e-Mitra’ was launched to provide real-time assistance to farmers regarding government schemes, especially PM Kisan Samman Nidhi. This multilingual chatbot addresses over 20,000 queries daily and has resolved 92 lakh queries to date, making government support more accessible and farmer-friendly.

2. National Pest Surveillance System (NPSS)

AI and Machine Learning (ML) have been deployed through NPSS to tackle pest infestations, a major cause of crop loss. Farmers and extension workers can upload images of pests, and AI models analyze the data to provide immediate solutions. The system currently covers 61 crops and over 400 pests, with a database of approximately 1 lakh images, enabling proactive pest control and crop protection.

3. AI-Based Crop Health Monitoring

The government has integrated AI analytics with satellite imagery, soil moisture data, and weather reports to monitor crop health. This technology is particularly beneficial for rice and wheat cultivation, allowing for early detection of crop diseases, yield prediction, and better farm management.

4. Digital Agriculture Mission 2021-2025

As part of its Digital India initiative, the government launched the Digital Agriculture Mission, which emphasizes AI adoption in precision farming, smart irrigation, and real-time data monitoring. This mission also promotes AI-based market intelligence to help farmers make informed decisions about crop pricing and sales strategies.

AI-Powered Startups and Collaboration with Global Tech Giants

The Modi government has actively encouraged public-private partnerships to drive AI adoption in agriculture. Several Indian agri-tech startups, such as CropIn, Fasal, AgNext, and DeHaat, have leveraged AI for farm advisory, yield prediction, and market linkages. Additionally, collaborations with global tech leaders like Microsoft, IBM, and Google have enhanced AI applications in agriculture:

• IBM’s Watson Decision Platform uses AI to analyze weather forecasts and soil conditions.
• Microsoft’s AI Sowing App provides sowing advisories based on climate data.
• Google’s AI-powered Farm Management System aids farmers in decision-making through predictive analytics.

Impact of AI in Indian Agriculture

AI-driven agricultural transformation has yielded tangible benefits in terms of productivity and economic growth:

• 20-25% increase in crop yield through AI-powered advisory services.
• 30% reduction in pesticide use due to precise pest monitoring.
• 15-20% improvement in water efficiency using AI-based irrigation solutions.
• 50% decrease in farm-to-market wastage through AI-driven supply chain optimization.

Government Reports and Data

Several reports affirm the growing influence of AI in agriculture:

NITI Aayog’s 2022 report highlighted that AI integration in agriculture could add $87 billion to India’s economy by 2035.

The Ministry of Agriculture’s 2023 report states that AI-based interventions have helped farmers reduce input costs by 25% and increase profits by 35%.

According to a FICCI-BCG study (2023), AI-driven solutions could boost India’s agricultural exports to $100 billion by 2030.

Under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, India has embraced Artificial Intelligence as a key enabler of agricultural growth and farmer prosperity. From AI-powered chatbots to precision farming techniques, the government’s initiatives have empowered millions of farmers with cutting-edge technology. As AI continues to evolve, its role in Indian agriculture will be indispensable in achieving the vision of Viksit Bharat (Developed India) 2047. With sustained policy support, increased investment, and farmer-centric innovations, India is poised to become a global leader in AI-driven smart agriculture.

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2023 में वैश्विक एनीमे बाजार का मूल्य लगभग 26.89 बिलियन डॉलर था, और यह 2030 तक 52.97 बिलियन डॉलर तक पहुंचने की संभावना है। जापानी एनीमे और मंगा उद्योग ने 2020 में 2 ट्रिलियन येन (लगभग 18 बिलियन डॉलर) से अधिक का निर्यात किया।

अचानक ही Ghibli का सोशल मीडिया पर एक उफान दिख रहा है, यह ट्रेंड कर रहा है। इस Ghibli ट्रेंडिंग की दीवानगी के बीच हमें भारत की आत्मनिर्भरता की पीड़ा पर भी विचार करना चाहिए। एक नागरिक दायित्व के रूप में यदि हम भारत में बने किसी सोशल मीडिया प्लेटफार्म या AI के लिए ऐसा प्रयास दिखाएँ तो भारत, भारतीयता एवं भारत के नागरिकों के साथ सोशल मीडिया पर हो रहे दोहरे व्यवहार के विरुद्ध हम एक संगठित शक्ति के रूप में खड़े दिख सकते हैं। लेकिन दुर्भाग्य से हम भारतीय ऐसा नहीं करते हैं।

एनीमे ने जापान को एक ‘कल्चरल सुपरपावर’ के रूप में स्थापित किया, इसकी दीवानगी पूरे विश्व में दिख रही है। स्टूडियो घिबली (Studio Ghibli) न केवल जापान की एनीमे इंडस्ट्री का एक प्रमुख स्तंभ है, बल्कि यह जापान की सांस्कृतिक सॉफ्ट पावर (Soft Power) को वैश्विक स्तर पर मजबूत करने का एक प्रमुख माध्यम भी है। इसकी शुरुआत 1985 में हायाओ मियाज़ाकी (Hayao Miyazaki) और इसाओ ताकाहाता (Isao Takahata) ने की थी। स्टूडियो ने अपनी गहरी भावनात्मक कहानियों, पर्यावरणीय संदेशों, सांस्कृतिक मूल्यों और असाधारण एनीमेशन के माध्यम से पूरी दुनिया में जापानी संस्कृति और विचारधारा का प्रसार किया।

स्वत्व के भाव का अभाव:

विचारणीय है की 145 करोड़ की आबादी वाले भारत से ऐसे नए विचार, अभिनव नवाचार और व्यवहार बाहर क्यों नहीं आते हैं? क्या इतनी विपुल आबादी का देश दूसरे देशों की उत्पाद क्रांति का खाद-पानी मात्र ही बनकर रहेगा या अपने स्वत्व के बोध से ऐसे सोशल मीडियाई और डिजिटल नवाचारों का भी उदय भी करेगा, जहाँ भारतीय दोयम दर्जे के नागरिक बन अपने संस्कृति, परंपरा और समाज के लिए ट्रोल न किये जाएँ? यह सरकार का कार्य नहीं, इसका समाधान लोकविमर्श से निकलेगा। सरकार का कार्य है नीति निर्माण एवं सहयोग, जो मोदी सरकार कर रही है और समाज उसका लाभ लेकर नए प्रयोग करे और स्वत्व के जागरण हेतु स्वदेशी को प्रमोट करे।

अंतर्राष्ट्रीय व्यापार कानूनों के कारण कोई भी देश अपने बाजार को एक सीमा तक संरक्षणवादी बना सकता है पर जापान इसके दुष्प्रभावों से बिना कोई टैरिफ या बैरियर के ही सुरक्षित रहता है क्यों की वहां के लोग अपने स्वदेश निर्मित सामानों का प्रयोग करते हैं और अपने उत्पादों का दीवाना बनाने का हुनर उन्हें पता है, इसलिए अमेरिका में उनकी कारों का बोलबाला है।

हमारा रचनात्मक जगत पश्चिमी विश्व के अंधे अनुकरण में किस कदर डूबा है इसकी बानगी अभी हाल ही में एक विवादित कोमेडी शो के दौरान एक अत्यंत अशोभनीय टिपण्णी के साथ उजागर हुई जहाँ यह संवाद भी पश्चिमी टीवी शो की नक़ल कर के बोला गया था। भारत में अभिनय, फिल्म उद्योग तो छोडिये रियलिटी शो में भी संवाद नक़ल से आ रहे हैं।

हॉलीवुड को टक्कर देता जापान का सांस्कृतिक अग्रदूत “एनीमे”:

स्टूडियो घिबली की फिल्में, जैसे My Neighbor Totoro (1988), Spirited Away (2001), Princess Mononoke (1997), और Howl’s Moving Castle (2004), जापानी संस्कृति, मिथकों और परंपराओं को प्रभावी रूप से प्रस्तुत करती हैं। Spirited Away ने 2003 में ऑस्कर (Academy Award) जीता, जो किसी जापानी एनीमेशन के लिए एक ऐतिहासिक उपलब्धि थी। इसने जापान को वैश्विक मंच पर सांस्कृतिक नेतृत्व की स्थिति में खड़ा किया। इन फिल्मों में दिखाए गए पर्यावरण संरक्षण, महिला सशक्तीकरण और पारिवारिक मूल्यों ने दुनिया भर में दर्शकों के दिलों को छुआ और जापानी दृष्टिकोण की व्यापक स्वीकृति दिलाई।

एनीमे और जापान का सॉफ्ट पावर

जापान ने एनीमे के माध्यम से सॉफ्ट पावर को एक रणनीतिक उपकरण के रूप में इस्तेमाल किया है। सॉफ्ट पावर का तात्पर्य है कि किसी देश की सांस्कृतिक, राजनीतिक, और वैचारिक ताकतें दूसरों को आकर्षित और प्रभावित कर सकें।

2023 में वैश्विक एनीमे बाजार का मूल्य लगभग 26.89 बिलियन डॉलर था, और यह 2030 तक 52.97 बिलियन डॉलर तक पहुंचने की संभावना है। जापानी एनीमे और मंगा उद्योग ने 2020 में 2 ट्रिलियन येन (लगभग 18 बिलियन डॉलर) से अधिक का निर्यात किया।

नेटफ्लिक्स जैसे स्ट्रीमिंग प्लेटफॉर्म पर 100 से अधिक जापानी एनीमे सीरीज उपलब्ध हैं। स्टूडियो घिबली की सभी फिल्में नेटफ्लिक्स पर उपलब्ध कराए जाने के बाद, उनकी वैश्विक लोकप्रियता में 200% से अधिक वृद्धि हुई।

जापान के सांस्कृतिक ब्रांड “एनीमे” का उपयोग:

Totoro Forest और Spirited Away से प्रेरित लोकेशन्स जापान में पर्यटकों के आकर्षण का प्रमुख केंद्र हैं। एनीमे के माध्यम से लाखों लोगों ने जापानी भाषा और संस्कृति को सीखने में रुचि दिखाई है। जापानी सरकार ने एनीमे को Cool Japan Initiative का हिस्सा बनाया है, जिसमें 2025 तक 1 ट्रिलियन येन का निवेश किया गया है।

स्टूडियो घिबली का योगदान

स्टूडियो घिबली ने जापानी सॉफ्ट पावर को तीन तरीकों से मजबूत किया है। फिल्मों में गहरे नैतिक और मानवीय संदेश होते हैं, जो वैश्विक दर्शकों से जुड़ते हैं। घिबली की फिल्मों ने 120 से अधिक देशों में प्रदर्शित होकर जापानी संस्कृति को लोकप्रिय बनाया। Totoro जैसे कैरेक्टर्स जापान के सांस्कृतिक आइकन बन गए हैं।

स्टूडियो घिबली और एनीमे ने जापान को केवल आर्थिक लाभ ही नहीं, बल्कि सांस्कृतिक और कूटनीतिक मजबूती भी प्रदान की है। एनीमे अब एक वैश्विक भाषा बन चुकी है, जो जापान की परंपराओं और मूल्यों को दुनिया भर में पहुंचा रही है। घिबली का योगदान, जापान की सॉफ्ट पावर को नई ऊंचाइयों तक ले जाने में मील का पत्थर साबित हुआ है।

श्री युगो साको से बहुत कुछ सीख सकता था भारत:

1980 के दशक के अंत में,  रामायण से प्रभावित होकर जापानी निर्देशक युगो साको ने प्रसिद्ध भारतीय एनिमेटर राम मोहन के साथ मिलकर इस महाकाव्य की एक एनीमे-शैली में निर्देशित करने का निर्णय लिया। इस इंडो-जापानी संयुक्त निर्माण का नाम “रामायण: द लीजेंड ऑफ प्रिंस राम”  था। लगभग $13 मिलियन के बजट के साथ निर्मित यह फिल्म पाँच वर्षों में पूरी हुई और 1992 में रिलीज़ हुई। इस फिल्म में भगवान राम की कहानी को अद्भुत दृश्यों, विस्तृत पात्र-डिज़ाइन, और संगीतकार वानराज भाटिया द्वारा तैयार किए गए एक प्रभावशाली बैकग्राउंड स्कोर के साथ प्रस्तुत किया गया। इसे हिंदी, अंग्रेजी और जापानी सहित 20 से अधिक भाषाओं में डब किया गया और यह केवल भारत और जापान में ही नहीं, बल्कि पूरे दक्षिण-पूर्व एशिया, यूरोप और उत्तरी अमेरिका में भी दर्शकों तक पहुँची।

इस एनिमेटेड रामायण को विशेष बनाने वाली बात इसकी सांस्कृतिक विवरणों पर बारीकी से ध्यान देना था। युगो साको ने प्रामाणिकता सुनिश्चित करने के लिए 10 से अधिक भारतीय विद्वानों से परामर्श लिया और एनिमेशन शैली में जापानी एनीमे और भारतीय कला के तत्वों को शामिल किया। यह फिल्म 1993 में कान्स फिल्म फेस्टिवल में प्रदर्शित हुई और अपनी सांस्कृतिक सीमाओं को पार करने वाली कहानी के रूप में आलोचकों द्वारा सराही गई।

यह फिल्म निर्माण में वैश्विक सहयोग का एक प्रमुख उदाहरण बन गई और इसे धर्म (कर्तव्य), साहस और समर्पण जैसे रामायण के मूल्यों को वैश्विक दर्शकों तक पहुँचाने के लिए प्रशंसा प्राप्त किया। इस फिल्म की स्थायी विरासत यह दर्शाती है कि कैसे पारंपरिक भारतीय महाकाव्य, आधुनिक कहानी कहने के माध्यमों के साथ, सांस्कृतिक और भाषाई बाधाओं को पार कर सकते हैं और भारत की आध्यात्मिक धरोहर को वैश्विक मंच पर प्रदर्शित कर सकते हैं।

कितने दुर्भाग्य की बात है की भारत ने यदि युगो साको के इस कार्य से सीखा होता तो आज इस उद्द्योग में भारत की भी एक बड़ी हिस्सेदारी होती लेकिन पश्चिम के अन्धानुकरण ने हमें अपने अभिनवता को उजागर ही नहीं होने दिया।

भारत के लिए सीख:

भारत अपनी समृद्ध और विविध सांस्कृतिक विरासत के माध्यम से वैश्विक स्तर पर अपनी सांस्कृतिक सॉफ्ट पावर को सुदृढ़ कर सकता है। जैसे जापान ने एनीमे और स्टूडियो घिबली के माध्यम से अपनी संस्कृति को विश्वभर में लोकप्रिय बनाया है, भारत भी रामायण और महाभारत जैसे अपने प्राचीन महाकाव्यों को उच्च-गुणवत्ता वाले एनिमेटेड श्रृंखला, फिल्मों और डिजिटल कहानी कहने के माध्यम से प्रस्तुत कर सकता है। मल्टीमीडिया संस्करण, गेमिफाइड लर्निंग टूल्स और वर्चुअल अनुभवों के साथ एक इंटरएक्टिव डिजिटल इकोसिस्टम में विस्तारित किया जा सकता है। इसके अलावा, बॉलीवुड और क्षेत्रीय सिनेमा को मात्र नकलची डायलाग एवं विदेशी फैशन के अंधे अनुकरण से हटकर सिनेमा को रणनीतिक रूप से प्रचारित करना चाहिए, ताकि भारत के मूल्य, परंपराएं और आधुनिक आकांक्षाएं विश्व के दर्शकों के सामने प्रस्तुत की जा सकें।

भारत जापान की कूल जापान इनिशिएटिव से प्रेरणा लेकर “कूल इंडिया” जैसे अभियान शुरू कर सकता है, जो भारतीय सांस्कृतिक विरासत, कला रूपों और नवाचारों को वैश्विक स्तर पर बढ़ावा देने पर केंद्रित हो। इस पहल के तहत भारत योग, आयुर्वेद, पारंपरिक शिल्प, शास्त्रीय संगीत और नृत्य जैसी अपनी ताकतों का उपयोग कर सकता है। भारतीय पौराणिक कथाओं, लोककथाओं और इतिहास पर आधारित उच्च-गुणवत्ता वाली डिजिटल सामग्री, जैसे एनिमेटेड श्रृंखला, डॉक्यूमेंट्री और वर्चुअल रियलिटी अनुभव, वैश्विक दर्शकों को आकर्षित कर सकते हैं। इसके साथ ही, अंतरराष्ट्रीय स्ट्रीमिंग प्लेटफॉर्म्स, सांस्कृतिक महोत्सवों और संग्रहालयों के साथ साझेदारी करके भारत अपनी कहानियों और सांस्कृतिक खजाने को व्यापक दर्शकों तक पहुंचा सकता है।

इस प्रयास को और मजबूत बनाने के लिए भारत प्रमुख विदेशी शहरों में सांस्कृतिक केंद्र और उत्कृष्टता के हब स्थापित कर सकता है, जहां भारतीय कला, शिल्प, प्रदर्शन और कार्यशालाओं का आयोजन किया जाए। इन प्रयासों को युवा दर्शकों को ध्यान में रखते हुए डिज़ाइन किया जाना चाहिए, ताकि भारतीय संस्कृति को आकर्षक और प्रासंगिक बनाया जा सके। यह न केवल भारत की सांस्कृतिक कूटनीति को सुदृढ़ करेगा, बल्कि भारत की वैश्विक छवि को एक प्रगतिशील और गहरी जड़ों वाले राष्ट्र के रूप में प्रस्तुत करेगा। आधुनिक मीडिया तकनीकों को भारत की समृद्ध विरासत के साथ जोड़कर, भारत एक वैश्विक सॉफ्ट पावर नेता के रूप में अपनी पहचान बना सकता है, ठीक वैसे ही जैसे जापान ने अपनी एनीमे और डिज़ाइन इंडस्ट्री के माध्यम से किया है।

The post Ghibli व एनीमे : जापानी ‘कल्चरल सुपरपावर’ से भारत को सीख appeared first on VisionViksitBharat.

According to a World Bank report, a 10% increase in broadband penetration can boost GDP growth by 1.38%. With only 37% of rural households in India having internet access (National Family Health Survey, 2019-21), the BharatNet initiative offers a monumental opportunity to transform rural India.

In the digital era, connectivity forms the backbone of economic growth and societal transformation. Recognizing the transformative potential of high-speed broadband, the Modi government has undertaken pioneering initiatives to bridge the digital divide between urban and rural India. A significant step in this direction is the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed between Digital Bharat Nidhi (DBN), under the Department of Telecommunications (DoT), and the National Bank for Agriculture and Rural Development (NABARD). This partnership underscores the government’s commitment to leveraging digital infrastructure to drive rural development and achieve the vision of Viksit Bharat by 2047.

Enabling Rural Digital Empowerment

The MoU aims to empower rural institutions supported by NABARD by providing them access to high-speed broadband connectivity under the BharatNet program. BharatNet, envisioned as the world’s largest rural broadband initiative, connects over 2.5 lakh Gram Panchayats (GPs) through high-speed optical fiber networks. This partnership focuses on:

1. Digital Access to Governance

High-speed broadband through programs like BharatNet enables rural institutions to access e-governance services, making public service delivery more transparent and efficient.

Example: Common Service Centers (CSCs): With over 500,000 CSCs operational across India, rural citizens can now access over 300 digital services, including land records, birth certificates, and subsidies. This initiative saves time and reduces corruption by eliminating intermediaries.

Impact of E-Governance on Efficiency: A study by NITI Aayog shows that e-governance has reduced processing times for rural services by 40%. For instance, the DigiLocker platform has issued over 14 billion digital documents to date, simplifying citizen access to official records.

DBN-NABARD MoU Role: Rural institutions like Primary Agriculture Cooperative Societies (PACS) can now utilize e-governance platforms to streamline their operations and enhance transparency in disbursement processes for loans and subsidies.

2. Integration of Digital Services

High-speed broadband integrates digital applications and portals, bringing inclusivity to governance and ensuring services reach remote areas.

Direct Benefit Transfers (DBTs): With broadband-enabled banking systems, the government has facilitated DBTs, transferring over ₹6.3 lakh crore (FY 2022-23) directly into beneficiaries’ bank accounts, reducing leakages in welfare schemes.

Jan Dhan, Aadhaar, and Mobile (JAM) Trinity: Broadband access has strengthened the JAM infrastructure, enabling seamless delivery of benefits like PM-KISAN payments to over 11 crore farmers annually.

Government Portals: Initiatives like the PMGDISHA platform have trained over 4 crore rural citizens in digital literacy, ensuring they can access online services such as banking, healthcare, and education.

3. Capacity Building for Rural Entrepreneurs

Broadband connectivity facilitates training programs and equips rural entrepreneurs with digital skills to thrive in a technology-driven economy.

Digital Skilling Initiatives: Programs like PMGDISHA have made over 6 crore people digitally literate, with a significant focus on rural women and youth. These initiatives enable entrepreneurs to access digital marketplaces and financial platforms.

E-Marketplaces: Platforms like the Government e-Marketplace (GeM) and eNAM (National Agriculture Market) allow rural entrepreneurs and farmers to directly market their products, bypassing middlemen. eNAM has connected 1.74 crore farmers and facilitated transactions worth ₹2 lakh crore.

Awareness and Training Programs: Under the DBN-NABARD MoU, awareness programs for rural entrepreneurs will promote ICT-based business opportunities, fostering a new generation of digitally skilled entrepreneurs.

4. Promotion of the Digital Economy

Broadband-enabled initiatives in e-commerce, fintech, and digital banking are transforming rural India into a vibrant part of the digital economy.

Fintech Growth: With broadband access, rural citizens increasingly use fintech solutions like UPI, which recorded over 8 billion transactions worth ₹13.89 lakh crore in January 2025 alone. This penetration supports financial inclusion and reduces dependency on cash.

Rural E-Commerce: Platforms like Amazon Saheli and Flipkart Samarth have empowered rural artisans and women entrepreneurs, enabling them to sell their products nationally and internationally. Rural e-commerce penetration has grown by over 30% annually.

Digital Banking Access: High-speed broadband has brought banking services to the doorstep of rural households. According to the Reserve Bank of India (RBI), rural bank accounts grew by 46% in the last decade, driven by digital banking solutions and initiatives like India Post Payments Bank (IPPB).

Driving Socioeconomic Transformation

Data underscores the transformative potential of digital connectivity. According to a World Bank report, a 10% increase in broadband penetration can boost GDP growth by 1.38%. With only 37% of rural households in India having internet access (National Family Health Survey, 2019-21), the BharatNet initiative offers a monumental opportunity to transform rural India.

Key Benefits:

1. Agricultural Modernization

High-speed broadband empowers farmers with real-time access to critical agricultural information, modernizing farming practices and improving productivity.

Weather and Crop Data: Digital platforms like Meghdoot and Kisan Suvidha provide farmers with weather forecasts, pest control measures, and crop advisory services. For example, the Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) delivers daily weather updates to over 20 million farmers.

Market Linkages: E-platforms like eNAM (National Agriculture Market) connect 1.74 crore farmers to 1,000+ mandis across India. With broadband access, farmers can check market prices, negotiate directly with buyers, and reduce dependence on middlemen, increasing their income by 20-30%.

Smart Farming: Broadband enables precision farming through IoT devices, soil sensors, and drones. NABARD’s Digital Ecosystem for Agriculture (DEA) initiative is integrating these technologies with high-speed connectivity to promote data-driven farming.

2. Education and Skill Development

Broadband connectivity bridges the educational gap in rural India by providing access to quality learning resources and skill development programs.

Digital Classrooms: Initiatives like PM eVidya and Diksha offer online courses to students in rural areas, ensuring uninterrupted education. By 2024, these platforms have reached 23 crore learners, providing content in 15+ languages.

Skill Development: Under Skill India Mission, broadband-enabled training centers have imparted employable skills to over 50 million youth. Programs like eSkillIndia offer courses in IT, healthcare, and retail, boosting rural employability.

Women’s Education: Digital initiatives like Mahila Shakti Kendra focus on skilling rural women, with over 10 lakh women gaining financial literacy and entrepreneurial training.

3. Healthcare Accessibility

Telemedicine services, powered by high-speed broadband, address the healthcare needs of rural India, reducing disparities in health outcomes.

eSanjeevani Telemedicine Platform: This initiative has facilitated over 15 crore teleconsultations, connecting rural patients with doctors in urban hospitals.

Digital Health Records: Programs like Ayushman Bharat Digital Mission (ABDM) ensure that rural citizens have access to portable digital health records, simplifying access to healthcare services.

Mobile Health Units: Broadband enables mobile healthcare vans to operate efficiently in remote areas, providing real-time diagnostics and consultations. A 2023 NITI Aayog report found a 25% improvement in health indicators in villages served by telemedicine.

4. Rural Entrepreneurship

High-speed broadband enables rural entrepreneurs and MSMEs to access markets, financial services, and training, fostering economic growth and job creation.

Market Access for Startups: Platforms like Flipkart Samarth and Amazon Saheli have empowered rural entrepreneurs, particularly women, to market their products globally. Flipkart reported a 35% growth in rural sellers joining its platform in 2023.

Financial Inclusion: Rural entrepreneurs leverage broadband to access fintech platforms like UPI and Aadhaar-enabled payment systems. UPI recorded 83 billion transactions in 2023, with significant growth in rural regions.

MSME Growth: Broadband connectivity is driving the growth of MSMEs in rural India. According to the Ministry of MSME, rural MSMEs contributed 45% to India’s GDP in 2023, employing over 100 million people.

Startup Ecosystem: Initiatives like Startup India and NABARD’s Rural Innovation Fund support rural entrepreneurs in scaling their ventures, aided by broadband-enabled access to training and resources.

Policy Initiatives: A Gender-Inclusive Approach

The Modi government’s focus on inclusivity in digital initiatives, especially targeting women, is driving significant societal and economic transformation in rural India. High-speed broadband access amplifies these efforts by enabling women to participate in e-commerce, digital marketing, and online education, fostering gender parity in the workforce. Here’s how:

1. Digital Literacy for Women

PMGDISHA (Pradhan Mantri Gramin Digital Saksharta Abhiyan): Under this flagship initiative, over 6 crore rural citizens, of which 52% are women, have been trained in basic digital skills, enabling them to access online services and opportunities.

CSC Women Digital Entrepreneurs Program: More than 1 lakh women have become Village Level Entrepreneurs (VLEs), offering digital services like Aadhaar enrollment, online banking, and e-governance solutions to their communities.

2. Participation in E-commerce and Digital Marketing

E-commerce Growth: Platforms like Amazon Saheli and Flipkart Samarth empower rural women entrepreneurs to sell products online. For instance, Amazon Saheli supports over 2 lakh women sellers, providing training, logistics, and marketing assistance.

Self-Help Groups (SHGs): Broadband access helps women in SHGs promote their products digitally. NABARD reported that 25% of SHG members have adopted e-commerce, resulting in a 30-40% increase in their income.

3. Online Education and Skill Development

Digital Learning for Women: Initiatives like Diksha and PM eVidya provide online courses tailored to rural women, helping them gain skills in IT, healthcare, and other sectors. By 2023, over 12 crore women learners accessed these platforms.

Skill India for Women: Digital platforms under the Skill India Mission have trained more than 10 million women, enhancing their employability in fields like digital marketing, coding, and customer service.

4. Economic Empowerment

Fintech Access: High-speed broadband enables rural women to use fintech services like UPI and Aadhaar-enabled payment systems. As per NPCI, UPI transactions in rural areas grew by 25% in 2023, with women being significant contributors.

Remote Work Opportunities: Digital connectivity allows women to participate in remote jobs, freelancing, and online tutoring, giving them financial independence. A NASSCOM report indicates that remote work for rural women grew by 18% in 2023.

5. Gender Parity in Workforce

Women in Startups: Programs like Startup India and Stand-Up India have provided financial and technical support to women entrepreneurs, with 80% of beneficiaries being women in 2023.

Employment Growth: According to the International Labour Organization (ILO), digital skilling and connectivity could increase women’s workforce participation in India by 10% by 2030, adding approximately 70 million women workers to the economy.

NABARD and DBN Collaboration: A Step Towards Digital Transformation

Under the MoU, NABARD and DBN will work collaboratively to share reference data, digital content, and information on citizen-centric applications. High-speed broadband will be extended to rural institutions such as Primary Agriculture Co-operative Credit Societies (PACS), enabling them to integrate with the digital economy. This effort will modernize rural banking and financial institutions, making them more efficient and accessible.

A Vision for Viksit Bharat

The Modi government’s push for high-speed broadband in rural areas aligns with its broader vision of a self-reliant India. By empowering rural communities with digital tools and connectivity, the government is laying the foundation for sustainable and inclusive growth. This initiative will not only bridge the urban-rural divide but also position India as a global leader in digital innovation.

In conclusion, the DBN-NABARD collaboration under BharatNet is a transformative step towards rural digital empowerment. By integrating technology with governance, agriculture, education, and healthcare, high-speed broadband will act as a catalyst for India’s rural development, paving the way for Viksit Bharat by 2047.

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By addressing implementation challenges and improving the scope and reach of MSP, the Modi government can create a more equitable system that aligns with the vision of Viksit Bharat.

India’s agricultural sector forms the backbone of its economy, providing livelihoods to millions and ensuring food security for a vast population. At the heart of agricultural policy is the Minimum Support Price (MSP) system, which guarantees farmers a fair price for their produce, insulating them from market fluctuations. This article delves into the comprehensive scope of MSP, the crops it covers, and its role in fostering a progressive agricultural ecosystem.

What is MSP?

MSP is the price at which the government procures crops from farmers, ensuring they are not forced to sell below their cost of production during periods of low market prices. The MSP is announced for 22 mandated crops and is determined based on recommendations from the Commission for Agricultural Costs and Prices (CACP), along with input from state governments and relevant central ministries.

Crops Covered Under MSP

The MSP system encompasses a wide variety of crops, grouped into Kharif, Rabi, and other categories:

1. Kharif Crops

   • Cereals: Paddy (Common), Jowar, Bajra, Maize, Ragi
   • Pulses: Tur (Arhar), Moong, Urad
   • Oilseeds: Groundnut, Sunflower, Soybean (Yellow), Sesamum, Nigerseed

2. Rabi Crops

   • Cereals: Wheat, Barley
   • Pulses: Gram, Masur (Lentil)
   • Oilseeds: Rapeseed & Mustard, Safflower

3. Commercial Crops

   • Cotton (Medium Staple)
   • Jute
   • Copra (Milling)

Recent MSP Trends: Growth Analysis (2020-2025)

The government has consistently increased MSP over the years to align with rising production costs. Below are the key insights from the last five years:

• Paddy (Common): MSP increased from ₹1,868 per quintal in 2020-21 to ₹2,300 in 2024-25, a rise of ₹432.
• Jowar: MSP rose by ₹751, from ₹2,620 to ₹3,371 during the same period.
• Ragi: Saw a significant increase of ₹995, from ₹3,295 to ₹4,290.
• Moong: MSP climbed by ₹1,486, from ₹7,196 to ₹8,682.
• Soybean (Yellow): The MSP increased by ₹1,012, from ₹3,880 to ₹4,892.
• Cotton (Medium Staple): A notable rise of ₹1,606, from ₹5,515 to ₹7,121.

The government has also ensured significant increases for Rabi crops:

• Wheat: MSP grew by ₹450, from ₹1,975 in 2021-22 to ₹2,425 in 2025-26.
• Rapeseed & Mustard: A rise of ₹1,300, from ₹4,650 to ₹5,950.
• Masur (Lentil): Witnessed a substantial hike of ₹1,600, from ₹5,100 to ₹6,700.

Procurement Mechanisms Under MSP

1. Cereals and Coarse Grains
   The Food Corporation of India (FCI) and designated state agencies procure cereals and coarse grains to stabilize prices and maintain buffer stocks. The procurement estimates are finalized in consultation with state governments based on production and marketable surplus.

2. Pulses, Oilseeds, and Copra
   Procurement is conducted under the Pradhan Mantri Annadata Aay Sanrakshan Abhiyan (PM-AASHA) when market prices fall below MSP. Agencies like NAFED and NCCF handle procurement, restricted to 25% of All India production.

3. Cotton and Jute
   Cotton is procured by the Cotton Corporation of India (CCI), while jute procurement is managed by the Jute Corporation of India (JCI). Unlike other crops, there is no maximum quantity limit for cotton and jute procurement.

Key Challenges in MSP Implementation

Despite its numerous benefits, MSP faces several implementation challenges:

1. Limited Awareness: Many farmers, especially smallholders, remain unaware of MSP or lack access to procurement centers.
2. Regional Disparities: Procurement is concentrated in select states, disadvantaging farmers in non-procurement areas.
3. Infrastructure Gaps: Lack of adequate storage and transport facilities often leads to inefficiencies in procurement.

 Strengthening MSP

To maximize the benefits of MSP, the government should focus on:

• Expanding Awareness Campaigns: Ensuring farmers across all regions are informed about MSP and its processes.
• Strengthening Infrastructure: Building more storage units and procurement centers in underserved areas.
• Enhancing Technology Integration: Leveraging digital tools for transparent procurement, real-time price updates, and farmer registration.
• Boosting Private Sector Participation: Encouraging private players to support procurement and storage under regulatory guidelines.

MSP remains a cornerstone of India’s agricultural policy, ensuring financial security for farmers and fostering sustainable agricultural growth. By addressing implementation challenges and improving the scope and reach of MSP, the government can create a more equitable system that aligns with the vision of Viksit Bharat. A robust MSP framework not only uplifts farmers but also strengthens India’s journey towards self-reliance and prosperity in agriculture.

The post A Comprehensive Overview of MSP for All Mandated Crops appeared first on VisionViksitBharat.

With a strong commitment to consumer prosperity, the Modi Gov has effectively integrated sustainable practices into its consumer protection framework. Let’s discuss on World Consumer Rights Day 2025.

World Consumer Rights Day 2025 serves as a crucial platform to reflect on the progress made in safeguarding consumer interests and ensuring their empowerment. Under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, India has undertaken significant policy measures to protect consumers from unfair trade practices, promote sustainability, and foster transparency in digital and traditional markets. With a strong commitment to consumer prosperity, the government has effectively integrated sustainable practices into its consumer protection framework, reinforcing the ethos of ‘Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas, Sabka Vishwas, and Sabka Prayas.’

Advancing Consumer Protection in the Digital Age

The Modi government has consistently prioritized consumer rights, particularly in the rapidly evolving digital economy. Recognizing the complexities and challenges of online transactions, the Consumer Protection E-Commerce Rules, 2020 were introduced to ensure fair trade practices, prevent consumer exploitation, and establish greater accountability for e-commerce platforms. These rules safeguard consumers from misleading advertisements, hidden charges, unfair contracts, and unethical business tactics that have become prevalent in the digital marketplace.

A major concern in modern consumerism is deceptive marketing techniques such as dark patterns and greenwashing. Dark patterns refer to manipulative website or app designs that trick consumers into making unintended choices, such as hidden fees, forced subscriptions, or difficulty in canceling services. Greenwashing, on the other hand, involves false sustainability claims by businesses to mislead environmentally conscious consumers. The Modi government has proactively addressed these issues by issuing strict guidelines to ensure transparency and fair trade, empowering consumers to make informed decisions.

Digital Revolution in Consumer Grievance Redressal

To streamline consumer grievance redressal, the government has launched innovative digital platforms that provide fast and effective solutions. The E-Daakhil portal allows consumers to file complaints online with ease, reducing the need for physical visits to consumer courts. The e-Jagriti initiative further strengthens this framework by enhancing accessibility and efficiency in handling disputes. These initiatives reduce bureaucratic delays, increase transparency, and improve accountability, making justice more accessible to consumers across the country.

Building on these advancements, the upcoming National Consumer Helpline (NCH) 3.0 is set to revolutionize consumer grievance redressal. The current resolution time of 45 days will be significantly reduced to just 7 days, ensuring faster responses and increased consumer confidence. This ambitious reform marks a new benchmark in consumer protection efficiency, reinforcing India’s commitment to a robust and consumer-friendly marketplace.

By integrating technology, policy reforms, and regulatory oversight, the Modi government has positioned India as a global leader in consumer rights protection. These proactive measures not only safeguard consumer interests but also promote ethical business practices, ensuring a fair, transparent, and sustainable digital economy for all.

Sustainability as a Cornerstone of Consumer Welfare

The Modi government has positioned sustainability at the heart of consumer protection, recognizing that environmental responsibility and consumer welfare go hand in hand. By integrating eco-friendly standards, quality control measures, and sustainable consumption practices, the government is ensuring that consumers have access to safe, high-quality, and environmentally responsible products.

Eco-Labelling and Quality Control: Safeguarding Consumer Interests

A key initiative in this direction is the Eco Mark scheme, which promotes sustainable product packaging and safety standards. This program helps consumers identify and choose products that meet environmental and quality benchmarks, encouraging industries to adopt greener production processes.

To further reinforce consumer protection, the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) has issued over 180 Quality Control Orders (QCOs) covering 769 products. These mandatory QCOs ensure that industrial, household, and consumer goods meet strict quality and environmental standards, eliminating substandard and hazardous products from the market. Additionally, hallmarking and standardization initiatives in sectors like gold, electronics, and construction materials protect consumers from fraud while promoting resource efficiency.

Mission LiFE: Transforming Consumption Patterns

One of the most visionary steps taken by the Modi government is the Mission LiFE (Lifestyle for Environment) initiative. This program, championed by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, seeks to transform consumer behavior by moving away from a “use-and-dispose” culture to a more sustainable circular economy model.

Under Mission LiFE, citizens are encouraged to adopt mindful consumption habits, such as reducing waste, promoting energy efficiency, and choosing sustainable products. This approach aligns with India’s commitment to reducing its carbon footprint while empowering consumers to make eco-conscious choices.

India’s Leadership in Sustainable Consumerism

By integrating sustainability into consumer policies, the Modi government is setting global benchmarks for responsible consumption and production. These measures not only protect consumer interests but also drive India toward a greener economy, ensuring a balance between economic growth and environmental conservation.

With initiatives like eco-labelling, QCOs, and Mission LiFE, India is paving the way for a sustainable future where consumer empowerment and environmental responsibility go hand in hand.

Promoting Consumer Awareness and Accountability

Consumer awareness is a cornerstone of consumer protection, ensuring that individuals make informed choices and are not misled by unfair practices. Recognizing this, the Modi government has launched several initiatives to educate and empower consumers while holding businesses accountable for their practices.

‘Jago Grahak Jago’ & The Jagriti Mascot: Strengthening Consumer Education

The ‘Jago Grahak Jago’ campaign has been one of India’s most impactful consumer awareness programs, helping millions understand their rights and responsibilities as consumers. To further enhance its reach, the Jagriti mascot was introduced as a symbol of consumer vigilance, making legal and technical aspects of consumer rights more accessible and relatable to the general public.

Quality Connect Campaign: Raising Standards in Consumer Products

The Quality Connect Campaign (March 1-15, 2025), launched through the Quality Connect app, is a first-of-its-kind initiative that engages government officials and the public to highlight the significance of product standards and quality assurance. This campaign aims to educate consumers about certifications, hallmarking, and quality control standards, encouraging businesses to adhere to national and international quality norms while strengthening trust in the marketplace by promoting standardized and high-quality goods. By making quality assurance a collective effort, this initiative aligns with India’s vision of a consumer-centric and transparent economy.

Tackling Misleading Advertisements & Ensuring Corporate Accountability

The Modi government has taken strict action against deceptive marketing practices, particularly in sectors like education, coaching institutes, and e-commerce. New advertising regulations ensure that misleading claims, such as false job guarantees, exaggerated success rates, or deceptive product benefits, are penalized while holding businesses accountable for the authenticity of their advertisements. These measures protect consumers from fraudulent schemes and unethical promotions, creating a more responsible corporate environment that upholds ethical marketing standards.

Right to Repair: Empowering Consumers & Reducing E-Waste

The Right to Repair initiative is a progressive step toward empowering consumers by giving them access to repair information, spare parts, and affordable services. This initiative helps extend product lifespans, reducing electronic waste and supporting sustainability while also reducing dependency on expensive manufacturer-exclusive repair services. Additionally, it strengthens consumer independence and choice in product maintenance. By promoting repairability and sustainability, this initiative aligns with Mission LiFE (Lifestyle for Environment) and India’s commitment to responsible consumption.

Through these consumer-centric policies and initiatives, the Modi government is ensuring that awareness, accountability, and sustainability remain at the heart of India’s economic progress. By fostering transparency in business practices, enhancing consumer education, and promoting sustainability, India is creating a marketplace that is fair, ethical, and consumer-friendly.

A Vision for the Future

The government’s proactive approach to consumer welfare underscores a broader vision—to create a just, sustainable, and consumer-friendly economy. By implementing stringent regulations, enhancing digital grievance redressal systems, and promoting sustainability, India is setting an example for the world in consumer rights protection.

As we commemorate World Consumer Rights Day 2025, it is evident that the Modi government has successfully transformed consumer protection from a regulatory obligation into a dynamic movement for sustainable growth and consumer empowerment. Moving forward, continued innovation, stricter enforcement, and active consumer participation will be key in ensuring that India’s consumers are not only protected but also prospering in an evolving economic landscape.

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