In today’s world, AI assistants like ChatGPT and Google Gemini are transforming the pace of our daily routines. If you give them an instruction, they can analyse the internet in moments. For example, if you ask them to find a restaurant, they will instantly study the available options, their ratings, and menus, and with your approval, they can take you straight to the booking page. However, for the final step of transferring money, they still have to wait for your confirmation: such as an OTP or PIN.

Now consider this automated process in a more structured way. Imagine a possible future where your AI system automatically handles your everyday bills: paying the electricity bill before the due date, depositing school fees on time, or clearing your car instalment ahead of schedule. This is a workflow where, no matter how advanced the AI assistance is, it prepares all the data and takes you to the payment page, but the process stops at the final stage when the money actually needs to be deducted.

This is not a shortcoming. It is the strength of India’s secure payment infrastructure. India has made PIN and OTP mandatory to keep people’s money protection as the highest priority. To move beyond this structure, on 18 March 2026, global technology institutions introduced the ‘Machine Payments Protocol’ (MPP). It is an effort to develop a secure technical system in which you set a spending limit for your AI assistant. Within this limit, the AI becomes capable of making payments on its own without repeatedly asking for PIN or OTP.

If India implements this successfully, the need for repeated confirmations in digital transactions could decrease significantly, saving people’s valuable time. This technology not only increases convenience but also presents a strong possibility of laying a solid foundation for a secure and reliable future.

The New Direction of Digital Payments: When Machines Transact with Each Other

Payment methods have changed very rapidly in the last few decades. From cards and internet banking to the widespread success of UPI in India, we have made the process of sending money from one person to another extremely easy and fast. Today, UPI is a strong digital foundation of the Indian economy.

Now technology has reached a new turning point. Due to the Internet of Things (IoT) and AI, smart devices have become connected to the internet. Machines can now understand their own needs. For instance, a smart refrigerator can estimate that the milk is finished, or sensors in an electric car can detect that it needs to go to a charging station.

The real benefit of automation will come only when these machines can transact money with each other at their own level for purchasing goods or availing services. If machines still have to seek OTP or permission from a human for every small payment, then this technology will lose its real advantage. The need for the ‘Machine Payments Protocol’ (MPP) is precisely to solve this problem. Currently, machines are limited only to our instructions. The goal of MPP is to provide them with a secure framework so that they can handle their small expenses themselves without repeated human approvals.

Technical Structure and Working of MPP

MPP is not a mobile app or software. It is a global standard created for the internet. Just as there are traffic rules for driving on the road, MPP is a technical ‘rule book’ for money transactions by machines on the internet.

The interesting thing is that the roots of this standard are quite old. In the 1990s, when the internet was just beginning, scientists clearly anticipated that in the future, not only humans but machines too would make payments themselves on the internet. Therefore, they kept one code of the internet (‘HTTP 402’) reserved for this future technical need. But at that time, technology had not advanced enough, so that code remained unused for decades.

Recently, one of the world’s largest digital payment companies, ‘Stripe’, and a technology investment company ‘Paradigm’ have together given new life to this unused code and converted it into a secure payment system for machines. Let us understand it with an example. When we make an online purchase, we see a ‘web page’ with a ‘cart’ and a ‘Pay’ button. But machines do not need web pages; they only need direct technical messages.

Suppose in Delhi you need to travel one stop to another on a local bus, with a fare of ₹20. In such a scenario, in the future, your AI assistant could connect with the bus service’s digital system. As soon as you board the bus, the system could signal that the fare for this journey is ₹20. If you have already given permission to your AI assistant to make payments, it can pay the ₹20 without entering any OTP or PIN.

However, the real challenge here is not ‘user permission’ but the ‘process happening at the system level’. If for every small payment (like ₹20) the complete payment process: request, verification, and confirmation; between the AI and the bus system has to run separately every time, then it can become technically slow and heavy. To solve this problem, MPP proposes the concept of ‘Session’. Under this, an ‘active session’ can be created for a fixed time or limit (for example, ₹1,500 per week). This means the AI does not need to repeat the entire payment process again and again. It can make many small payments quickly within one session. And as soon as the limit is about to be reached, the session can end or fresh permission may be required.

In this way, the difference is that earlier every transaction was a separate process, while in a ‘session’ the same work can happen as one continuous, optimised process; making the system faster and more efficient.

Machine Payments at the Global Level: Preparation by Major Technology and Banking Companies

The idea of payments between machines is no longer limited to theory. Major technology and financial companies around the world are working to turn it into reality. In the technology sector, America’s digital payment company ‘Stripe’ and technology investment company ‘Paradigm’ are jointly developing and promoting MPP. Their goal is clear: in the future, when AI systems buy data or computing power from cloud servers, that payment should be completely automatic. In this preparation, the leading AI company ‘OpenAI’ is updating its products to align with this new payment system. Similarly, ‘Google’ has been continuously researching since September 2025 to give its AI agents the capability to make payments automatically.

Along with this, the global banking sector is also preparing to join this new machine economy of MPP. Banks are trying to understand how they will securely authenticate and manage millions or billions of small transactions between these machines. In this sequence, ‘Mastercard’ has developed a new technology called ‘Agent-Pay’. Its successful pilot has been conducted with several major Asian banks, including HSBC and DBS in Hong Kong, UOB in Singapore, and CIMB in Malaysia.

All these global trials and preparations indicate that machine-to-machine (M2M) payments could prove to be one of the most important technologies driving the global digital economy in the future.

India’s Strong Position: UPI’s Success and a New Opportunity for AI Payments

Whenever digital payments are discussed around the world, India’s name comes up prominently. More than 22 billion UPI transactions every month show how rapidly Indians have adopted digital payments. The biggest reason for this success is people’s trust, which exists because of the Reserve Bank of India (RBI)’s strict security policies. To protect ordinary citizens’ money, from 1 April 2026, using ‘PIN’ along with ‘OTP’ or ‘fingerprint’ at the time of payment has been made even more strictly mandatory.

Now, when it comes to integrating new technology like AI into this trusted system, an interesting situation arises. AI systems can work very fast automatically, but they do not have fingerprints or faces, while India has now made these mandatory for payments. This could have been a major obstacle for any country, but India’s technology sector has taken it as a positive opportunity. Indian fintech companies are working to develop a new technical method in which AI payments remain within RBI’s strict security framework even without machine biometrics.

If India succeeds in resolving this challenge, it will mean we will have a system where, on one hand, AI works completely automatically, and on the other, the common man’s money remains fully secure. Because of India’s own strict rules, there is a strong possibility here for MPP-like technology to become the world’s safest version, and India can show the entire world how to run AI and financial security together.

Potential Solution in India: How ‘UPI Reserve Pay’ Works

Keeping in mind the challenge that AI does not have biometrics, the Indian fintech sector is working on a technical framework that maintains both security and automation. In February 2026, at the ‘India AI Impact Summit’, a significant demonstration was presented. NPCI, in collaboration with leading fintech companies like Razorpay, showcased agentic payments powered by UPI Reserve Pay. This demo illustrated how an AI assistant (such as Claude) can handle ordering and payments on food delivery platforms on behalf of the user within a single conversation, without repeated interventions.

The entire system is based on the concept of ‘UPI Reserve Pay’. Its working is easy to understand. Whenever a user wants to give payment permission to their AI assistant, they set a spending limit (for example, ₹2,500) in their UPI app. While setting this limit, the user has to provide their PIN or fingerprint. In this way, the user’s identity authentication is completed even before the AI starts working. After this one-time secure authentication, the AI can carry out transactions up to that fixed amount without repeatedly asking for a PIN. From a technical and regulatory point of view, this process stays within RBI’s security standards because no funds can be reserved without the user’s secure identity proof.

In this system, the user has the maximum control. They can change the limit anytime from their phone or immediately cancel the permission given to the AI. This pilot shows that India’s UPI structure has the capability to understand new technologies like AI payments and mould them into a secure framework. If this concept becomes practically successful in the future, India will be in a strong position to move ahead globally in this sector.

RBI’s ‘Payments Vision 2028’: Regulatory Preparation for AI Payments

Before implementing any new technology, it is essential to define its rules and regulations. In March 2026, the RBI released a document called ‘Payments Vision 2028’. This document provides a roadmap for how India can move forward with new technologies like MPP so that innovation happens and people’s money also remains secure. It mainly focuses on three things:

(1) Arrangement for Secure Testing (Regulatory Sandbox): This simply means that when any company develops new software for payments between machines, instead of launching it directly in the market, it must first be tested in a limited and controlled environment under RBI’s supervision. This arrangement helps catch any technical flaws before they can harm ordinary people’s money.

(2) Clarifying Accountability (Shared Liability): If in the future an AI makes a wrong payment by mistake, whose responsibility will it be to compensate for the loss? The AI-making company’s, the bank’s, or the consumer’s? This document is trying to find answers to these questions. Efforts are being made to make rules clear so that the consumer gets the maximum protection in case of any error.

(3) Monitoring of Large Platforms: In the future, when machines themselves transact on big apps like Amazon or Flipkart, consideration is being given to bringing these platforms also under RBI’s rules. This means not only small fintech companies but even large technology companies will have to follow government oversight in payment matters so that there is no weak link in the entire system.

These three points show that India is not rushing blindly into AI payments but is moving forward with a disciplined and well-thought-out policy vision.

Suggestions for the Government of India: Possible Directions to Secure the AI Payment Economy

India has a strong base due to the success of UPI. To give a systematic and secure shape to AI-powered payments, policymakers may find it beneficial to consider these strategic points:

(1) Sovereign Digital Identity Card for Machines (M-KYC): Just as Aadhaar has given a standard identity to citizens, every AI agent that is going to transact money should have a unique digital identity card. The information of this identity can be stored in secure digital code that hackers cannot easily break or change. It should clearly record who operates that machine and what its transaction limit is. Another important thing: this system should have a provision for ‘immediate deactivation’. If any suspicious activity is found in an AI system, the Reserve Bank or banking network should be able to instantly disable its transaction capability with one click. This will maintain trust in the entire system.

(2) Protection of Digital Sovereignty (UPI-MPP Bridge): Global standards for MPP are being developed. India will need to develop a strong technical bridge to connect its UPI framework with these global standards. However, while developing it, it must be ensured that Indian citizens’ payment data never goes to foreign servers under any circumstances. This bridge should work under India’s data protection law (DPDP Act). India should adapt global technology according to its security and privacy needs so that our ‘Digital Sovereignty’ remains fully intact.

(3) Legal Clarity and Review of Tax Framework: When machines start taking financial decisions themselves, new legal complexities will arise. For example, if a wrong financial transaction happens due to an AI’s mistake, will the responsibility lie with the AI developer or the service provider? New provisions can be considered in the Indian Penal Code (IPC) and consumer protection rules to clearly define the role of AI agents. Additionally, when machines transact services with each other, how will GST or service tax apply? An initiative should be started to develop a clear taxation framework for this ‘machine-to-machine economy’ so that no revenue-related obstacles arise in the future.

(4) AI-based Instant Grievance Redressal and Auditing: If in the future an AI payment fails due to some technical glitch, customers should not have to run around banks. Using blockchain-based ‘smart contracts’, a system can be developed that automatically starts the refund process as soon as an error is detected. Along with this, standards for ‘AI Auditing’ can be prepared, just like banks are audited, so that an independent agency checks whether any AI agent is favouring a particular merchant or discriminating against customers.

(5) Machine-Level Cybersecurity: When machines themselves start transacting money, it can become a big target for cyber attackers. Therefore, the government should consider developing an ‘automated cyber defence system’, that is, a defence system that is itself AI-based and can identify and stop dangerous transactions in real time. In matters of security, we will need machines that are faster and smarter than the attackers.

(6) Linguistic Inclusion and Financial Awareness (Bhashini Integration): This technology should not remain limited only to English-speaking urban classes. Using the ‘Bhashini’ project, AI can be developed so that a village farmer can order fertiliser and seeds by speaking in his mother tongue. However, along with language, another important aspect should be added: ‘Financial Security Awareness’. This AI should not only place orders but also alert the consumer. For example, if someone tries to transact on a suspicious platform, the AI should warn them in their own language: “Caution, this platform does not look safe.”

(7) Coordinated Research and Public Technology Standards (PPP & Open-Source): To develop this technology, the government, RBI, NPCI, and the private fintech sector should work under a coordinated strategy. Special ‘Centres of Excellence’ can be established on this subject in the country’s leading IITs and IIMs. Most importantly, the basic infrastructure of this technology should be developed as a ‘Public Tech Standard’. That is, India should prepare its own code and present it to the world as a secure and affordable option. This way, India will not have to depend on any foreign company or technology in this sector.

Possible Impact of AI Payments on the Indian Economy

According to an estimate in a research report by the global management consulting company McKinsey, the market for financial transactions done by AI assistants worldwide could reach 3 to 5 trillion dollars (approximately 250 to 400 lakh crore rupees) by 2030. With its already strong digital infrastructure, India can take advantage of this global opportunity, and its positive impact can be seen in many sectors of the country’s economy. Some major examples are:

(1) Efficiency in the Agriculture Sector: Using smart contracts, the supply chain from crop production to the mandi can be made more efficient. In this system, payment can be automatically transferred directly to the farmer’s bank account as soon as the crop is sold, so farmers get immediate and direct benefit from their produce.

(2) Convenience for Small Businesses (MSMEs): Small businessmen spend a lot of time in processes of buying raw materials and paying suppliers. If AI handles all these small payments automatically, businessmen will save time that they can use to expand their businesses.

(3) Opportunities for New Types of Technical Jobs: People often fear that AI will eat up jobs, but with the development of this new machine economy, new technical professions may emerge. In the future, demand may increase for roles such as ‘AI Auditors’ who check the security of AI systems, ‘Digital Financial Analysts’, ‘Smart Contract Developers’, ‘Machine Identity Managers’, ‘AI Ethics Officers’ who keep AI transactions secure and fair, and ‘API Integrators’ who build relations between banks and technology companies.

India’s Potential Role in the Next Phase of Digital Payments

Technologies like MPP are the next link in the digital world. Looking at this change, India’s initial position is quite positive. With the already successful UPI framework, strict rules that protect people’s money, and excellent technical talent, India has a strong foundation to move forward in this sector. Moreover, Indian fintech companies are also working rapidly in this area. If the government provides the right policy support; such as arranging machine identification (M-KYC) or building a domestic technical bridge (UPI-MPP Bridge); then India can be in a good position to stay ahead globally in this sector.

If India succeeds in advancing this new technology together with the security and convenience of ordinary citizens, then in this new era of digital payments, India’s model can become an example for other countries. This is not just an opportunity to advance technology, but a wonderful chance to prove how safe financial systems and new technology can be successfully combined. Undoubtedly, this is a long and responsible journey, but India has a strong base ready for its beginning.

References and Sources

1. Stripe Inc. and Paradigm Labs, “Machine Payments Protocol (MPP): Initial Draft Specification and HTTP 402 Implementation” (March 2026). This document explains the global technical standards created for payments between machines.
2. McKinsey & Company, “The Economic Impact of Generative AI and the Future of Automated Digital Assistants” (October 2025). This report is based on economic estimates of the future of AI-based digital economy.
3. Reserve Bank of India (RBI), “Payments Vision 2028” (March 2026). This document highlights policy directions related to the future of digital payments in India, regulatory sandbox, and consumer protection.
4. National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI), Technical Demonstration of ‘UPI Reserve Pay’ and ‘Delegated Payments Framework’ (India AI Impact Summit, New Delhi, February 2026). This demonstration showcases India’s technical capabilities for making payments on UPI through AI.
5. Government of India, “Digital Personal Data Protection Act (DPDP Act), 2023”. This law is the foundational framework for ensuring the security and privacy of citizens’ data in automated systems.

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Why foreign exchange reserve is significant?

A foreign exchange reserve is essential for any nation. It benefits the nation in a variety of ways. It aids the nation’s ability to conduct international trade because international trade necessitates the use of dominant currencies such as the USD. Additionally, it contributes to the stability of the local currency, in our case, rupees. The RBI monitors the value of the Bhartiya rupee, and if it falls, it sells some dollars to keep the currency stable. International loans are typically made in currencies such as the US dollar or the Euro, and must be repaid in the same currency. As a result, the foreign exchange reserve is critical, or international agencies may declare the nation to be in default. If the nation has economic turmoil or the world is in recession, the foreign exchange reserve serves as a buffer, keeping the country running and maintaining its reputation on the international stage. Investors are more inclined to invest in countries with bigger foreign exchange reserves because it provides them confidence that their money will be returned in the same currency in which they invested. In a nutshell, the foreign exchange reserve serves as a foundation for economic stability as well as a source of liquidity during difficult times.

Bharat, a nation of 1.4 billion people, is particularly susceptible to sudden spikes in the price of oil since decisions made by nations half a world away quickly affect fuel stations, the bottom lines of its farmers and truckers, and its cost-of-living indices. Even though over 85% of the nation’s crude is now imported, refineries are continuously working to refine crude oil in the background.

7 Points on Which Prime Minister Modi Requested Restraint

1. Reduce fuel consumption

When global oil prices jump, Bharat feels it quickly. Import bills soar, refinery margins tighten, and the currency weakens. The FY 2024-25 crude import bill touched roughly USD 137 billion, a figure that influences inflation and logistics costs across industries. Analyse how much pressure is placed on foreign currency reserves. To save fuel, we should use public transport such as the metro, trains, buses, or carpooling.

For everyday citizens, this means higher transport fares and commodity prices. For refineries, it means constant attention to crude selection, process efficiency, and maintenance reliability areas where engineering plays a direct role in cost control.

For a huge nation like Bharat, the long-term strategy for energy supply must be built on indigenous resources and require the deployment of an optimal balance of different energy sources. Aside from the environmental difficulties involved with large-scale coal consumption, it is important to highlight that coal deposits are limited. Solar and other non-conventional renewable energy sources play a vital role and should be utilized to the greatest extent possible. The objective is to lessen the risks associated with excessive reliance on oil, not to completely stop using it. One step at a time, Bharat is constructing a more resilient and independent energy future by combining smart imports with cleaner energy bets.

2. Gold

Bharat purchases more gold than nearly any other country in the world. Every year, the country uses between 700 and 800 tonnes of gold, driven by high demand from homes, weddings, festivals, investment purchases, and rural savings. However, with domestic output restricted to 1 to 2 tonnes per year, Bharat continues to rely on imports for more than 90% of its gold requirements. In 2025, Bharat imported about 72 billion dollars in gold, putting a strain on the foreign exchange reserves. Can we forgo buying gold for a year, as Prime Minister Modi has proposed?

3. Fertilisers

In 2025, we imported about $15 billion worth of fertiliser. It affects not only the foreign reserves, but also the environment and farmers, so we must transition to Bharatiya farming, which is both financially necessary and beneficial to the ecology and living creatures.

4. Edible oil

In 2025, we imported about $19 billion in edible oil. PM requested a 10% cut, which would be beneficial even for health.

5. Foreign travel

In 2025, 3.27 crore Bharatiyas visited overseas, spending 15 to 16 billion USD. Another strain on foreign reserves, which lead to travel within our own country, which has beautiful destinations, cultural heritage sites, and natural attractions. The destination wedding should only take place in Bharat.

6. Work from home

Another method to cut fuel use is to resume the ‘work from home’ practice that we adopted during the corona pandemic. Virtual meetings and videoconferencing have previously been created. I hope that the industry take the Prime Minister’s call seriously.

7. Why is self-reliance in Bharat necessary for growth?

Let us clarify things on a larger scale.  For a long time, we were economically and socially decimated by the Mughals, followed by the British.  Even after gaining independence, we were misled into believing that we couldn’t compete with China and other wealthy countries in the manufacturing and service sectors.  We gradually became addicted to Chinese products; just look around our home to see how many commodities are made in China; we even began purchasing idols and worshipping material, a form of mental slavery and dependence on China for our survival and other needs, a country that has always betrayed us, supporting our enemy nation Pakistan and its terrorists in their attempts to kill our civilians and soldiers. China fosters and promotes naxalism in India.  Never supported Bharat on a global scale, but instead opposed and participated in terrorising our people.  They never consider regions of the Northeast and Kashmir to be part of Bharat.  Nonetheless, the regulations and institutions established by our previous governments produced tough situations and actually mental anguish for anyone wishing to start a manufacturing or service sector, keeping our economy significantly weaker than China’s.  Thanks to the tenacity and determination of our pioneers such as Tata, Ambani, Adani, Mahindra, and many more, who instilled pride and faith in Bharatiya about our capabilities even under tough circumstances.

The situation is changing, and more of these products are being encouraged to be produced in-house and promoted with strong emotional linkages to “Make in India” products.  People’s patriotic feelings and pride in Bharatatva have increased, as has their resentment toward adversary nations China and Pakistan.  The better the bond between buyer and seller of Bharatiya-made products, the stronger the economy will be year after year, resulting in more jobs.  This will essentially make us net exporters. The changing global dynamics will see Bharat play a larger role on the economic front in the coming years, in addition to spiritual and holistic growth oriented approaches for the benefit of all and balancing and nurturing the environment. The current government’s pro-business policies, as well as skilled and knowledgeable workforce, will strengthen each sector and propel the economy to new heights in order to compete with China. Simultaneously, Prime Minister Narendra Modi launched the “Aatmanirbhar Bharat” (Self-Reliant India) program by announcing “Vocal for Local.”  We are now heading in the correct path toward India’s self-sufficiency by assisting in the in-house manufacturing of various products.

Though our journey to self-reliance in Bharat is bearing fruit thanks to remarkable measures by the central government and a few states, resulting in increased exports, expanding manufacturing, and service activities, we still have a larger market internally and a larger worldwide market awaits us.  Central government initiatives require the backing of all states, bureaucracy, enterprises, industrialists, researchers, scientists, and society as a whole.

Working on these topics will assist preserve the environment and prevent damage

Bharat, one of the world’s fastest growing economies, is at a crossroads.  On the one hand, there is an urgent need for economic growth, as millions of people rely on development to improve their level of living.  On the other hand, there is a pressing need to address environmental issues like pollution, climate change, and resource depletion. Environmental issues in India are escalating at an alarming pace. The environmental issues are profound and extensive, ranging from suffocating urban air pollution to widespread water contamination and increased soil erosion.

These challenges not only imperil millions of Bharatiyas health and livelihoods, but they also impede long-term development and economic growth. They exacerbate income and social inequality, causing people to relocate from rural areas to cities at a rapid pace. This exacerbates challenges in cities that lack the necessary infrastructure to accommodate growth. Bharat has very high greenhouse gas emissions and is vulnerable to natural calamities and extreme weather events. Its population and economic growth both contributed to environmental degradation.  The various governments, society at large, and citizens should take more decisive action to address environmental challenges.

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Recently, under the National Quantum Mission, India successfully demonstrated a 1,000-km quantum communication network in less than two years since the mission’s launch. This is among the longest quantum communication networks in the world. The achievement is particularly significant because the mission originally aimed to develop a 2,000-km quantum communication capability over a period of eight years, whereas India has achieved this remarkable progress at an exceptionally rapid pace.

In the twenty-first century, technological capability is increasingly determining geopolitical influence, economic resilience, military preparedness, and strategic autonomy. Just as the industrial revolution shaped the nineteenth century and the digital revolution transformed the twentieth, the coming decades are expected to be defined by mastery over frontier technologies such as Artificial Intelligence (AI), semiconductors, quantum computing, quantum communication, biotechnology, and high-performance computing. Among these, quantum technology is emerging as one of the most strategically consequential sectors in the world.

Quantum technology operates on the principles of quantum mechanics, including superposition, entanglement, tunnelling, and quantum interference, enabling computational and communication capabilities far beyond those of classical systems. Broadly, quantum technologies are divided into four major domains: quantum computing, quantum communication, quantum sensing, and quantum materials and devices. Their applications are expected to transform defence systems, cybersecurity, healthcare, logistics, climate science, finance, AI, and space technologies. Quantum systems can enable ultra-secure military communications, advanced cryptography, molecular simulations for drug discovery, high-resolution climate modelling, portfolio optimisation, and next-generation satellite communication systems.

The economic potential of quantum technology is equally enormous. According to McKinsey & Company, quantum technologies could generate economic value exceeding $1 trillion globally by 2035, while industry estimates project the global quantum computing market to surpass $125 billion by 2030. Meanwhile, Boston Consulting Group estimates that governments worldwide have already announced more than $40 billion in public investments in quantum technologies. Major technology companies including IBM, Google, Microsoft, and Intel are investing billions of dollars into quantum research, infrastructure, and hardware development. IBM has already unveiled quantum processors exceeding 1,000 qubits, while countries such as China and the United States are rapidly expanding quantum communication and computing ecosystems.

Against this backdrop, India has begun positioning itself not merely as a technology consumer, but as a major participant in the global deep-tech ecosystem. Under the leadership of Narendra Modi, India’s investments in quantum technologies, semiconductors, AI, supercomputing, and indigenous innovation reflect a broader strategic vision aimed at technological sovereignty and long-term national competitiveness.

India’s National Quantum Mission

Recognising the transformative potential of quantum technologies, India approved the National Quantum Mission (NQM) with an outlay of approximately ₹6,003 crore for the period 2023–2031. The mission aims to develop quantum computers with 50–1000 physical qubits, satellite-based quantum communication systems, inter-city Quantum Key Distribution (QKD) networks, quantum sensors and metrology systems, and advanced quantum materials and devices.

The National Quantum Mission represents one of India’s most ambitious scientific and technological programmes since the country’s space and nuclear initiatives. Its significance extends beyond scientific advancement because quantum technologies directly intersect with national security, cybersecurity, defence preparedness, and digital sovereignty. The mission seeks to reduce dependence on foreign technologies, strengthen indigenous intellectual property ecosystems, build sovereign cybersecurity infrastructure, and enhance India’s long-term technological resilience.

A major strategic concern globally is that future quantum computers may eventually become powerful enough to break classical encryption systems currently used in banking, military communications, digital governance, and financial infrastructure. Consequently, countries capable of developing quantum-safe communication systems early may gain substantial geopolitical and cybersecurity advantages.

India’s Quantum Communication Breakthrough

One of the most significant milestones achieved under India’s emerging quantum ecosystem has been the successful demonstration of 1,000 km secure quantum communication, completed in less than half the originally projected timeline. This breakthrough is strategically important because quantum communication enables encryption systems that are theoretically resistant to interception, hacking, and cyber espionage.

Quantum communication derives its security from the laws of physics rather than computational complexity. Using principles such as quantum entanglement and photon-based transmission, these systems can automatically detect interception attempts, making them fundamentally more secure than classical communication systems.

The implications are substantial for secure military communications, defence intelligence protection, financial systems, digital governance, and critical infrastructure security. As cyber warfare increasingly becomes central to geopolitical competition, quantum communication is likely to emerge as one of the defining strategic infrastructures of the future.

India’s Emerging Quantum Startup Ecosystem

India’s National Quantum Mission is also catalysing a new generation of deep-tech entrepreneurship. Multiple startups have received support under the mission, including investments of up to ₹30 crore per startup in areas such as quantum computing, quantum sensing, quantum communication, quantum hardware, and quantum software stacks.

This is strategically important because globally successful innovation ecosystems are built through collaboration between academia, startups, government laboratories, industry, and venture capital networks. India has also witnessed the emergence of indigenous quantum hardware initiatives, including one of the country’s first full-stack quantum computing systems featuring superconducting qubits.

These developments reflect an important transition from India’s traditional dependence on software services toward high-end hardware innovation and deep-tech capability building. Future industries such as quantum cybersecurity, quantum cloud computing, advanced semiconductor design, smart manufacturing, and precision healthcare are expected to increasingly rely on quantum-enabled systems.

Lessons from Global Quantum Powers

The global quantum race is intensifying rapidly, with major powers treating quantum technologies as strategic assets.

China’s Quantum Strategy: China has emerged as one of the world’s most aggressive players in quantum technologies. Its achievements include the launch of the Micius quantum satellite, the construction of large-scale quantum communication backbone networks, extensive military integration efforts, and massive state-led investments in quantum research infrastructure. China has already demonstrated satellite-based quantum communication over thousands of kilometres and reportedly invested billions of dollars in dedicated quantum laboratories.

China’s model highlights several important lessons for India, including the importance of long-term state-led investment, domestic hardware ecosystems, civil-military integration, talent retention, and institutional coordination. Although India’s democratic innovation ecosystem differs significantly from China’s centralised model, India can still learn from China’s scale, urgency, and strategic planning.

The United States and the National Quantum Initiative: The United States launched the National Quantum Initiative Act to coordinate federal quantum research and maintain technological leadership. The American ecosystem benefits from world-leading universities, strong defence research agencies, deep venture capital networks, Big Tech participation, and semiconductor leadership.

Companies such as IBM and Google have demonstrated major breakthroughs in superconducting and error-corrected quantum systems. The U.S. model demonstrates the strategic importance of public-private partnerships, research commercialisation, startup ecosystems, university-industry collaboration, and strong intellectual property frameworks.

Europe’s Quantum Flagship Programme: The European Union launched the Quantum Flagship Programme with multi-billion-euro investments aimed at long-term quantum research and industrial development. Europe’s strengths include collaborative research networks, advanced photonics research, regulatory preparedness, and strong emphasis on ethical governance and standardisation frameworks.

For India, the European model demonstrates the importance of international collaboration, open innovation ecosystems, and coordinated research partnerships involving universities, government laboratories, startups, and industry.

Semiconductors, Supercomputing, and Computational Sovereignty

Quantum technologies cannot scale without strong semiconductor and high-performance computing ecosystems. The global semiconductor shortage during the COVID-19 pandemic exposed the strategic vulnerability of countries dependent on concentrated chip supply chains. Semiconductors now underpin AI systems, defence electronics, telecommunications, space technologies, electric vehicles, industrial automation, and medical devices.

Recognising this strategic reality, India has intensified efforts to build indigenous semiconductor capabilities through the India Semiconductor Mission and related manufacturing incentives. Semiconductor capability is increasingly viewed not merely as an industrial sector, but as critical strategic infrastructure.

Parallelly, India’s National Supercomputing Mission (NSM), jointly implemented by the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology and the Department of Science and Technology, aims to establish a nationwide network of more than 70 high-performance supercomputers interconnected through the National Knowledge Network.

High-performance computing (HPC) capability is becoming indispensable for AI model training, climate modelling, genomics, weather forecasting, defence simulations, aerospace research, vaccine development, and advanced materials science. Under the mission, India has already deployed indigenous systems under the PARAM series, including PARAM Siddhi-AI, which ranked among the world’s leading AI-focused supercomputers.

The importance of computational sovereignty is growing rapidly because advanced AI systems and scientific simulations require enormous computing capacity. Countries capable of processing massive datasets, simulating complex systems, and accelerating scientific discovery gain major strategic advantages in defence, cybersecurity, industrial innovation, and scientific leadership.

The convergence of quantum technologies, AI, semiconductors, and supercomputing therefore reflects the emergence of a new strategic technology ecosystem in which national competitiveness depends increasingly on computational power.

India’s Structural Advantages

India possesses several structural strengths that could support long-term leadership in frontier technologies. One of its greatest advantages is its large STEM talent base. India produces one of the world’s largest numbers of engineers, scientists, and technology graduates annually. Institutions such as the Indian Institutes of Technology and the Indian Institute of Science are increasingly participating in advanced research in quantum computing, communication, and materials science.

India also benefits from its globally recognised digital public infrastructure ecosystem, including Aadhaar, UPI, DigiLocker, and large-scale digital governance systems. These initiatives demonstrate India’s ability to execute technology-driven programmes at population scale.

Another important advantage lies in India’s tradition of frugal engineering and cost-efficient innovation, which may prove strategically valuable in developing scalable and affordable quantum systems. Simultaneously, India has emerged as one of the world’s largest startup ecosystems, with increasing participation in deep-tech sectors including AI, semiconductors, space technology, and quantum innovation.

Supporting these structural strengths is a broader policy direction focused on Atmanirbhar Bharat, indigenous R&D, strategic manufacturing, semiconductor capability, deep-tech innovation, and digital sovereignty.

Challenges India Must Address

Despite rapid progress, India still faces several major challenges in becoming a global quantum leader.

One critical concern is talent retention. Quantum technologies require highly specialised expertise in physics, mathematics, cryogenics, materials science, electrical engineering, and computer science. India must prevent migration of top scientific talent by creating globally competitive research ecosystems, advanced laboratories, and long-term scientific opportunities.

Another challenge relates to research funding scale. Although the National Quantum Mission’s ₹6,003 crore allocation is significant, countries such as China and the United States are investing substantially larger sums in quantum research, semiconductor ecosystems, and advanced computing infrastructure. India may eventually require expanded public funding, sovereign deep-tech funds, defence-linked innovation grants, and specialised quantum venture capital ecosystems.

Semiconductor manufacturing capability also remains a critical gap. Quantum computing, AI systems, and high-performance computing infrastructure depend heavily on advanced fabrication capabilities, an area where India still relies significantly on foreign supply chains.

Additionally, India’s research commercialisation ecosystem remains relatively weaker compared to the United States and China. Stronger collaboration between academia, industry, startups, and government laboratories is essential to improve patent commercialisation, startup incubation, technology transfer, and industry-linked research.

Finally, India must prioritise large-scale quantum workforce development through specialised education programmes, interdisciplinary research centres, and advanced technical training across universities and scientific institutions.

Quantum technologies represent one of the most important strategic frontiers of the twenty-first century. They are poised to transform cybersecurity, defence systems, healthcare, communications, advanced computing, finance, and global digital infrastructure. The countries that dominate quantum technologies, semiconductors, AI, and supercomputing are likely to shape the future global balance of power.

India’s National Quantum Mission, semiconductor initiatives, supercomputing infrastructure, and deep-tech innovation policies indicate that the country is attempting to position itself not merely as a technology market, but as a major technological power with long-term strategic capabilities. The successful demonstration of 1,000 km secure quantum communication, investments in indigenous quantum hardware, support for quantum startups, and expansion of computational infrastructure reflect meaningful national progress.

However, sustaining leadership in the global quantum race will require substantially higher research investment, stronger semiconductor ecosystems, deeper industry-academia collaboration, talent retention, global research partnerships, and long-term institutional commitment.

The global quantum race has only just begun. Yet India’s current trajectory under Narendra Modi suggests that the country is making a serious bid to emerge as one of the leading powers in the coming quantum era, an era in which technological capability may increasingly define economic competitiveness, digital sovereignty, national security, and geopolitical influence.

The post Quantum Technologies and India’s Rise as a Deep-Tech Power appeared first on VisionViksitBharat.

इन सवालों के जवाब के जवाब के लिए हमें अमेरिका की हाईवे निति को समझना होगा। जब 1956 में अमेरिकी राष्ट्रपति ड्वाइट आइजनहावर ने ‘इंटरस्टेट हाईवे एक्ट’ पर हस्ताक्षर किए, तब कई आलोचकों ने इसे ‘कंक्रीट पर फिजूलखर्ची’ कहकर खारिज कर दिया था। लेकिन महज एक दशक के भीतर तकरीबन 65,000 किमी लंबे उस राजमार्ग नेटवर्क ने अमेरिकी अर्थव्यवस्था की तस्वीर बदल दी। इस परियोजना ने अपने निवेश की लागत से दोगुना अधिक आर्थिक योगदान दिया था। आज भी यह बात कही जाती है कि अमेरिका महाशक्ति इसलिए नहीं बना कि उसके पास विशाल उद्योग थे, बल्कि इसलिए बना क्योंकि उसके पास उन उद्योगों, शहरों और बाजारों को जोड़ने वाला विश्वस्तरीय हाईवे नेटवर्क था।

क्यों जरुरी है ‘तेज आपूर्ति शृंखला’?

आर्थिकी के अध्यन में धीमी सड़कों को एक अदृश्य टैक्स (फ्रिक्शन कॉस्ट) की तरह देखा जाता है। यह वह लागत है, जो उत्पादन और उपभोग के बीच की दूरी तय करने में लगती है; यानी किसी वस्तु को कारखाने, खेत या गोदाम से उपभोक्ता तक पहुंचाने की कीमत। दशकों तक भारत इसी फ्रिक्शन के महंगे बोझ तले दबा रहा। एक समय में देश की लॉजिस्टिक्स कॉस्ट जीडीपी के 13-14 प्रतिशत तक पहुंच गई थी, जो अमेरिका और यूरोप की तुलना में लगभग दोगुनी थी। इसका सीधा अर्थ था कि हर 100 रुपये के माल में 13-14 रुपये केवल परिवहन, भंडारण और सप्लाई चेन की अक्षमताओं में खर्च हो रहे थे।

लेकिन मोदी सरकार ने इस स्थिति को बदल दिया है। कभी भारत में राष्ट्रीय राजमार्ग निर्माण की रफ्तार बेहद धीमी थी। वर्ष 2013-14 में राष्ट्रीय राजमार्गों का निर्माण औसतन करीब 12 किलोमीटर प्रतिदिन हो रहा था। आज यह गति बढ़कर लगभग 34-37 किलोमीटर प्रतिदिन के स्तर तक पहुंच चुकी है। इस परिवर्तन के केंद्र में ‘भारतमला’ जैसी महत्वाकांक्षी परियोजना है। वर्ष 2017 में शुरू की गई लगभग 5.35 लाख करोड़ रुपये की इस महायोजना के तहत 34,800 किलोमीटर लंबे सड़क नेटवर्क का निर्माण हो रहा है जो देश के प्रमुख आर्थिक गलियारों, औद्योगिक केंद्रों, सीमावर्ती क्षेत्रों और बंदरगाहों को जोड़ रहा है।

सड़कों के साथ-साथ रेल आधारित माल परिवहन में भी भारत ने बड़ा कदम उठाया है। ‘डेडिकेटेड फ्रेट कॉरिडोर’ ने देश की सप्लाई चेन को नई ताकत दी है। इन कॉरिडोरों पर मालगाड़ियों की यात्रा अवधि में भारी कमी आई है, जहां पहले माल ढुलाई में 60 घंटे या उससे अधिक लगते थे, वहीं अब यह समय घटकर लगभग 35-38 घंटे तक आ गया है। इसके साथ पीएम गतिशक्ति और सागरमाला जैसी पहलें बंदरगाहों, औद्योगिक केंद्रों और आंतरिक बाजारों के बीच बेहतर तालमेल बना रही हैं। नतीजतन वर्तमान में भारत की लॉजिस्टिक्स कॉस्ट घटकर लगभग 7.97 प्रतिशत तक आ गई है। यह निश्चित रूप से एक बड़ा सुधार है।

सड़क और उद्योग का सम्बन्ध

‘इन्फ्रास्ट्रक्चर इकोनॉमिक्स’ में व्यापक रूप से स्थापित सिद्धांत है कि जहां उच्च गुणवत्ता वाला परिवहन गलियारा बनता है, उसके आसपास आर्थिक गतिविधयां स्वतः आकार लेने लगती हैं। आमतौर पर देखा गया है कि किसी बड़े हाई-क्वालिटी कॉरिडोर के 30 से 50 किलोमीटर के दायरे में धीरे-धीरे इंडस्ट्रियल क्लस्टर्स विकसित होने लगते हैं, जिनमें विभिन्न तरह के उपक्रम स्थापित होते हैं। इस प्रक्रिया को अर्थशास्त्र में ‘एग्लोमरेशन इकोनॉमीज’ कहा जाता है। यह सिद्धांत कहता है कि जब कई फर्म्स एक-दूसरे के निकट स्थापित होते हैं, तो वे साझा संसाधनों, प्रशिक्षित श्रमबल और ज्ञान के आदान-प्रदान से सामूहिक लाभ पाते हैं। इससे उत्पादन लागत घटती है, दक्षता बढ़ती है और नवाचार की गति तेज होती है। यही कारण है कि एक उद्योग के आने के बाद दूसरा उद्योग आता है, फिर तीसरा और देखते ही देखते एक पूरा इंडस्ट्रियल इकोसिस्टम विकसित हो जाता है।

इसके अतिरिक्त आधुनिक अर्थव्यवस्था में माल का प्रवाह ही पूंजी का प्रवाह है। किसी वस्तु का एक स्थान से दूसरे स्थान तक तेजी से पहुंचाना केवल व्यापारिक सुविधा नहीं, बल्कि आर्थिक दक्षता का मूल आधार है। उदाहरण के लिए, वाराणसी का एक उद्यमी जो बनारसी साड़ी बनाकर कोलकाता के बाजार में बेचना चाहता है, उसके लिए परिवहन में लगने वाला हर अतिरिक्त दिन उसकी वर्किंग कैपिटल पर पड़ने वाला अनचाहा ब्याज है। माल रास्ते में जितना अधिक समय बिताएगा, पूंजी उतने ही लंबे समय तक फंसी रहेगी। लेकिन यदि वही डिलीवरी साइकिल कम हो जाए तो तस्वीर बदल जाती है। इसका सीधा अर्थ है कि वही उद्यमी एक अतिरिक्त खेप बाजार तक पहुंचा सकता है। अब सोचिए जब यह लाभ हजारों उद्यमों और लाखों कारोबारियों तक पहुंचता है, तब यह केवल व्यक्तिगत लाभ नहीं रहता बल्कि एक पूरे क्षेत्र की रीजनल प्रोडक्टिविटी को नई उंचाई देता है। उदाहरण के लिए वर्ष 1999 में स्वर्ण चतुर्भुज परियोजना शुरू हुई थी, जिसने दिल्ली, मुंबई, चेन्नई और कोलकाता को आधुनिक राजमार्ग नेटवर्क से जोड़ा था। आज इस नेटवर्क से जुड़े जिलों में औद्योगिक उत्पादन में लगभग 49 प्रतिशत की वृद्धि और नए उद्यमों की संख्या लगभग दोगुनी हो गई है।

दुनिया के अनुभव भी इसी दिशा की पुष्टि करते हैं। चीन ने जब अपना विशाल एक्सप्रेसवे नेटवर्क विकसित किया, तो उसका सबसे बड़ा लाभ उन क्षेत्रों को मिला, जो पहले मुख्य आर्थिक धारा से कटे हुए थे। उदाहरण के लिए, हेनान, आनहुई, हुबेई और सिचुआन जैसे प्रांत जो कभी चीन के तटीय औद्योगिक क्षेत्रों की तुलना में अपेक्षाकृत पिछड़े माने जाते थे, बेहतर कनेक्टिविटी मिलने के बाद तेजी से उभरे। आर्थिक शोध बताते हैं कि इन्फ्रास्ट्रक्चर पर निवेश का प्रतिफल, विशेषकर पिछड़े क्षेत्रों में, कहीं अधिक बड़ा और व्यापक होता है। अर्थशास्त्री अल्फ्रेड मार्शल कहते थे कि अर्थव्यवस्था की सबसे बड़ी शक्ति ‘फ्रिक्शन’ को कम करने में है। आज यूपी के तर्ज पर अन्य राज्यों को भी तेज कनेक्टिविटी पर काम करना चाहिए। क्योंकि भारत के 5 ट्रिलियन डॉलर की अर्थव्यवस्था बनने की राह में सिर्फ यूपी ही नहीं बल्कि हर राज्य कि भूमिका निर्णायक है। केंद्र के साथ समनव्य में राज्यों को ऐसे प्रोजेक्ट पर काम करना चाहिए जो देश में आर्थिक गतिविधियों को तेज करें।

राज्य बनाएं एक्सप्रेस इकोनॉमी का मॉडल

गंगा एक्सप्रेसवे पर लगभग 36,230 करोड़ रुपये का निवेश केवल एक सड़क परियोजना पर हुआ खर्च नहीं है, बल्कि यह राज्य की आर्थिक दिशा तय करने वाली एक बड़ी वित्तीय प्रतिबद्धता है। ऐसे में यह सवाल स्वाभाविक है कि क्या इतने बड़े निवेश का प्रतिफल भी उतना ही बड़ा होगा। इसका उत्तर केवल सड़क की लंबाई, लेन की चौड़ाई या यात्रा समय में कमी से नहीं मिलता; इसका उत्तर इस बात में छिपा है कि राज्य इस इन्फ्रास्ट्रक्चर को किस हद तक आर्थिक गतिविधियों में बदल पाता है। आर्थिक इतिहास बताता है कि सड़कें अपने आप विकास नहीं लातीं, बल्कि वे विकास के लिए मंच तैयार करती हैं। अमेरिका में इंटरस्टेट हाईवे सिस्टम के बाद जो आर्थिक उछाल आया, उसके पीछे केवल चौड़ी सड़कें नहीं थीं; उसके साथ अर्बन जोनिंग रिफॉर्म्स, मजबूत इंडस्ट्रियल पॉलिसी और निजी निवेश को प्रोत्साहित करने वाला सक्षम इन्वेस्टमेंट इकोसिस्टम भी था। इसी तरह चीन के एक्सप्रेसवे नेटवर्क ने इसलिए असाधारण परिणाम दिए, क्योंकि वहां एक मजबूत मैन्युफैक्चरिंग बेस पहले से मौजूद था।

इसलिए किसी भी बड़ी परियोजना की सफलता का सबसे महत्वपूर्ण पैमाना ‘स्टेट कैपेसिटी’ है, यानी राज्य की वह क्षमता, जो किसी बड़े इन्फ्रास्ट्रक्चर निवेश को उद्योग, निवेश और रोजगार में बदल सके। उदाहरण के लिए यूपी में सरकार पूर्वांचल, बुंदेलखंड और गंगा एक्सप्रेसवे के किनारे इंडस्ट्रियल टाउनशिप्स, लॉजिस्टिक्स पार्क्स, वेयरहाउसिंग क्लस्टर्स और लिंक हाईवे नेटवर्क पर तेजी से काम कर रही है। राज्य का लक्ष्य इसे केवल सड़क बनाना नहीं, बल्कि आर्थिक गलियारे में बदलना है।
इसलिए अन्य राज्यों को भी यदि सचमुच परिवर्तनकारी मॉडल बनाना है, तो कुछ स्पष्ट नीतिगत कदम उठाने होंगे। पहली जरूरत लैंड एक्विजिशन रिफॉर्म की है। भूमि अधिग्रहण को केवल मुआवजे का विषय न मानकर ‘प्री-एम्प्टिव लैंड बैंकिंग’ और किसानों को दीर्घकालिक लाभ में हिस्सेदारी देने वाले मॉडल से जोड़ा जाना चाहिए, ताकि वे विकास के साझेदार बनें। दूसरी जरूरत इंडस्ट्रियल कॉरिडोर प्लानिंग की है। एक्सप्रेसवे के किनारे उद्योग अपने आप नहीं आते; उनके लिए स्पष्ट इन्वेस्टमेंट रोडमैप, बिजली-पानी जैसी आधारभूत सुविधाएं , नियामकीय सरलता और तेज प्रशासनिक मंजूरियां सुनिश्चित करनी होंगी। तीसरा और सबसे महत्वपूर्ण कदम ‘मल्टीमॉडल इंटीग्रेशन’ का है। आधुनिक अर्थव्यवस्था में सड़क, रेल, जलमार्ग और वायु परिवहन का एकीकृत नेटवर्क ही वास्तविक लॉजिस्टिक्स एफिशिएंसी पैदा करता है। देशभर में बन रहे मल्टीमॉडल लॉजिस्टिक्स पार्क्स इसी दिशा में एक महत्वपूर्ण पहल हैं, जिन्हें राज्यों की आर्थिक रणनीति का केंद्र बनाना चाहिए। तभी सड़कें सचमुच समृद्धि की राह बन सकेंगी।

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Pension Reform as a Pillar of Viksit Bharat

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This article examines the project through a policy lens, integrating official statements, economic data, and institutional reports to assess its long-term implications for India’s development trajectory, global competitiveness, and aviation ecosystem.

1. Infrastructure as a Driver of Economic Transformation

Modern economic theory increasingly recognizes infrastructure as a foundational driver of productivity, investment, and regional integration. According to the World Bank, a 1% increase in infrastructure investment can lead to a 0.5–1% increase in GDP growth in developing economies. India’s recent policy direction reflects this understanding, with infrastructure spending expanding significantly over the past decade.

Government data indicates that India’s infrastructure budget has increased more than six-fold in the last eleven years, with approximately ₹17 lakh crore invested in highways and expressways alone. Additionally, over 100,000 km of highways have been constructed, while railway electrification has expanded from around 20,000 km before 2014 to more than 40,000 km in recent years. Nearly the entire broad-gauge rail network is now electrified, reflecting a shift toward efficiency and sustainability.

Within this broader context, the Noida International Airport is not an isolated project but part of a systemic infrastructure-led growth strategy aligned with the vision of Viksit Bharat (Developed India).

2. Aviation Sector Expansion: From Elite Access to Mass Connectivity

India’s aviation sector has undergone a structural transformation. From fewer than 75 operational airports a decade ago, the country now has more than 160 airports, reflecting a deliberate policy shift toward democratizing air travel. The International Air Transport Association projects that India will become the world’s third-largest aviation market by passenger volume within this decade.

A key driver of this transformation has been the UDAN (Ude Desh ka Aam Nagrik) scheme, which has enabled over 1.6 crore passengers to access affordable air travel. The recent expansion of the scheme, with an allocation of approximately ₹29,000 crore, aims to develop 100 additional airports and 200 helipads, further deepening regional connectivity.

In this context, the Jewar airport represents a second major aviation hub for the National Capital Region (NCR), complementing existing capacity constraints and enabling long-term demand absorption. Importantly, Uttar Pradesh now ranks among the states with the highest number of international airports, signaling a shift in regional aviation geography.

3. Regional Development and Economic Spillovers

One of the most significant policy implications of the Noida International Airport lies in its regional development impact. The airport is expected to serve a vast economic belt, including Agra, Mathura, Aligarh, Meerut, Ghaziabad, Bulandshahr, Etawah, and Faridabad—regions that have historically faced infrastructure gaps.

Empirical studies from the OECD suggest that airport development can increase regional GDP by improving trade efficiency, attracting investment, and boosting tourism. Airports function as economic multipliers, generating both direct employment (aviation, logistics, services) and indirect employment (hospitality, retail, manufacturing).

For western Uttar Pradesh, the expected impacts include:

1. Enhanced market access for agricultural produce
2. Growth in small and medium enterprises (SMEs)
3. Increased foreign and domestic investment inflows
4. Expansion of tourism circuits (Agra–Mathura belt)

The integration of air connectivity with regional economic ecosystems is likely to transform the area into a high-growth industrial and logistics corridor.

4. Multimodal Connectivity and Logistics Efficiency

A defining feature of the Jewar project is its integration into India’s emerging multimodal transport framework. The region is strategically located near the convergence of the Eastern and Western Dedicated Freight Corridors, with Dadri serving as a critical junction linking northern India to ports in Gujarat and eastern India.

According to the Asian Development Bank, efficient logistics systems can reduce trade costs by up to 20–25% in developing economies. India’s logistics costs, historically estimated at 13–14% of GDP, are being targeted for reduction to global benchmarks of 8–10%.

The airport’s integration with freight corridors, expressways, and rail networks enables:

• Faster export of agricultural and industrial goods
• Reduced transportation time and costs
• Improved supply chain resilience
• Greater global market access

This aligns with India’s National Logistics Policy, which aims to position the country as a global manufacturing and export hub.

5. Agricultural and Rural Economy Linkages

The policy narrative around the airport also highlights its implications for the agricultural economy. Western Uttar Pradesh is a major producer of sugarcane, cereals, and horticultural products. Improved air connectivity is expected to facilitate high-value agricultural exports, particularly perishable goods.

Additionally, the government has emphasized the role of ethanol production in reducing energy import dependence. India’s ethanol blending program has already contributed to significant foreign exchange savings. Official estimates suggest that without ethanol blending, India would have required an additional import of approximately 4.5 crore barrels (around 700 crore litres) of crude oil annually.

This policy linkage demonstrates how infrastructure, agriculture, and energy security are being integrated into a holistic development framework.

6. Employment Generation and Human Capital Development

Large-scale infrastructure projects generate employment across multiple sectors. The aviation sector alone is expected to create substantial opportunities in:

1. Piloting and aviation operations
2. Aircraft maintenance and engineering
3. Airport management and logistics
4. Hospitality and tourism

The World Economic Forum estimates that infrastructure expansion and digital transformation together could create millions of new jobs globally by 2030.

A particularly critical aspect highlighted in the project is the development of a Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul (MRO) ecosystem. Currently, approximately 85% of India’s MRO requirements are outsourced abroad, leading to significant capital outflow. Establishing MRO facilities at Jewar could:

1. Reduce foreign exchange expenditure
2. Build domestic technical expertise
3. Position India as a regional aviation services hub

7. Resilience Amid Global Economic Uncertainty

The inauguration of the airport comes at a time of global economic volatility, including geopolitical tensions in West Asia affecting energy supplies. India remains heavily dependent on imports for crude oil and natural gas, making it vulnerable to external shocks.

According to the International Monetary Fund, infrastructure investment during periods of global uncertainty can act as a stabilizing force, sustaining domestic demand and economic growth.

India’s continued investment in large-scale infrastructure projects—even amid global crises—signals a counter-cyclical growth strategy, aimed at maintaining economic momentum and reducing vulnerability to external disruptions.

8. Urbanization, Industrialization, and Investment Attraction

The development of Noida as an infrastructure and industrial hub reflects broader trends in India’s urbanization strategy. The region is already witnessing the establishment of a semiconductor manufacturing facility, expansion of metro networks, and deployment of high-speed rail systems such as the Namo Bharat corridor.

Such integrated infrastructure ecosystems enhance:

1. Ease of doing business
2. Industrial clustering
3. Foreign direct investment (FDI) attractiveness

The United Nations Conference on Trade and Development notes that infrastructure quality is a key determinant of global investment flows. By improving connectivity and logistics efficiency, projects like Jewar airport strengthen India’s position in global value chains.

9. Environmental and Sustainability Considerations

While infrastructure expansion is essential for growth, it also raises concerns regarding environmental sustainability. Modern airport projects are increasingly incorporating:

1. Energy-efficient terminal designs
2. Renewable energy integration
3. Sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) frameworks

India’s broader infrastructure policy is gradually aligning with climate commitments under the Paris Agreement, aiming to balance growth with sustainability.

10. Strategic and Geopolitical Implications

Beyond economics, the airport also has strategic implications. Enhanced connectivity strengthens India’s integration into global trade networks and improves its logistical readiness.

Infrastructure development in northern India contributes to:

1. Strengthening national supply chains
2. Enhancing disaster response capabilities
3. Supporting strategic mobility

Such investments reflect a broader understanding that infrastructure is not merely economic capital but also strategic capital.

Conclusion

The inauguration of Phase I of the Noida International Airport marks a significant milestone in India’s infrastructure-led development journey. It exemplifies a policy approach that integrates aviation expansion, regional development, logistics efficiency, agricultural transformation, and global economic positioning.

By combining large-scale public investment with strategic planning, India is attempting to build a future-ready economic architecture capable of sustaining high growth, generating employment, and enhancing global competitiveness. The Jewar airport, therefore, is not just an aviation facility—it is a symbol of a broader transformation in how infrastructure is conceived, executed, and leveraged as a tool of national development.

As India moves toward its goal of becoming a developed economy, such projects will play a central role in shaping the country’s economic geography, strengthening its resilience, and positioning it as a key player in the global economy.

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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.

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अंतर्राष्ट्रीय मुद्रा कोष ने मानव उत्पादकता में वृद्धि होने के साथ-साथ कृत्रिम मेधा(AI) पर वैश्विक स्तर पर 40 प्रतिशत नौकरियों को प्रभावित कर सकने की आशंका जताई है। AI के माध्यम से वैश्विक सामाजिक-आर्थिक आयामों पर पड़ने वाले महत्वपूर्ण प्रभावों का व्यापक अध्ययन करने वाली  एक संस्था मैकिन्ले ग्लोबल इंस्टिट्यूट द्वारा ‘नोट्स फ्रॉम द फ़्रंटिएर’ नाम से प्रस्तुत एक रिपोर्ट में यह दावा किया गया कि AI 2030 तक वैश्विक स्तर पर 30 ट्रिलियन डालर तक आर्थिक लाभ पहुचानें में महत्वपूर्ण भूमिका निभाएगी। प्रोद्योगिकी, व्यवसाय, समाज, सरकार तथा अन्य सामाजिक संस्थाओं में एक शक्तिशाली परिवर्तन के साधन के रूप में अपनाए जाने से कृतिम मेधा(AI) उत्पादकता व कार्यकुशलता में तेजी से सुधार के कारक के रूप में उभरी है। अमेरिका, जापान , सिंगापुर  ब्रिटेन जैसे  देश अपने सरकारी कार्यों में जेनेरेटिव AI सहित आर्टफिशल इंटेलिजेंस  का भरपूर उपयोग कर रहे, वहीं  भारत भी इस AI के सरकारी कामकाज में प्रयोग के कार्य को तेजी से गति दे रहा है।

अनुमानों के अनुसार कृतिम मेधा (AI) के माध्यम से भारतीय अर्थव्यवस्था में यहां योगदान करने की संभावना है। इसके माध्यम से देश की GDP में वृद्धि की जा सकती है।

वैश्विक कल्याण के लिए AI का उपयोग करने का भारत का दृष्टिकोण

लंबे समय से AI के क्षेत्र में सफलता एक चुनौती रूप में थी। ग्राफिक्स प्रोसेसिंग यूनिट कंप्यूट पावर में वृद्धि, डीप माइंड जैसे अग्रणी उद्योगों से व्यापक स्तर  पर भाषा मॉडल कि उत्पत्ति व गूगल, मेटा, माइक्रोसॉफ्ट और टेस्ला जैसे बड़ी प्रोद्योगिक कंपनियों द्वारा महत्वपूर्ण निवेश के साथ AI के क्षेत्र में सकारात्मक परिवर्तन के साथ व्यापक उन्नति के मार्ग प्रशस्त हुए हैं, जिसमें जेनेरेटिव AI, विस्तृत भाषा मॉडल की उपलब्धता और अरबों पैरामीटर माडेल विभिन्न क्षेत्रों में लोगों को महत्वपूर्ण रूप से प्रभावित करने के लिए तत्पर है, जो देश के पहले से ही तेजी से बढ़ रही डिजिटल अर्थव्यवस्था के लिए एक क्रियाशील प्रवर्तन बना रहेगा।

दिसंबर 2023 में नई दिल्ली में सम्पन्न हुए AI पर केंद्रित महत्वपूर्ण शिखर सम्मेलन ‘ग्लोबल पार्ट्नरशिप ऑन आर्टिफिसियल इन्टेलिजेन्स’ जिसमें 29 देशों के विशेषज्ञों को एक साथ लाते हुए एक मंच प्रदान किया गया जिसका उद्देश्य AI के सिद्धांत व अभ्यास के बीच के अंतर को पाटना था।  भारत ने AI के प्रयोग के प्रति अपनी प्रतिबद्धता प्रगट करते हुए इसे मानव केंद्रित रखते हुए उच्च गुणवत्ता के अनुसंधान व व्यावहारिक गतिविधियों के माध्यम से लोक कल्याण के लिए महत्वपूर्ण माना है। डिजिटल इंडिया के परिवर्तनकारी यात्रा में AI की भूमिका का अग्रणी स्थान है, जिसको ‘इंडिया AI’ नामक मिशन के माध्यम से सरकार जन कल्याण के लिए इसके व्यापक संभावनाओं को साधने में पूरा जोर लगा रही है कि किस प्रकार से AI का प्रयोग सेवा, सुरक्षा , शिक्षा, स्वास्थ, रोजगार, कृषि व पर्यावरण सुरक्षा के विभिन्न आयामों में सतत विकास के लक्ष्यों को प्राप्त करने की दिशा में तथा सकारात्मक परिवर्तन की दृष्टि से किया जा सकता है। भारत के दृष्टिकोण में AI से संबद्ध नियमों की स्थापना, उनसे जुड़े नुकसान तथा अपराधों की एक विस्तृत सूची शामिल है। विकास के  क्रम में AI पर नियमों को लागू करने के बजाय भारत का पक्ष है की मॉडल प्रशिक्षण के दौरान पूर्वाग्रह और दुरुपयोग को रोकने को लेकर सभी AI प्लेटफॉर्मों के लिए स्पष्ट दिशानिर्देश बनाए जाएँ।

AI का यह युग विभिन्न संभावनाओं के साथ-साथ चुनौतियों से भरा हुआ है, जिसमें भारत मानव केंद्रित AI को लेकर प्रतिबद्ध व आशान्वित है।

शिक्षा क्षेत्र में AI- AI के प्रयोग से कुशल कक्षा प्रबंधन, चैटबोट व वर्चुअल असिस्टेंस, पाठ्यक्रम नियोजन, स्मार्ट कंटेन्ट नियोजन करने में सहायता मिलती है तथा एडुटेन्मेंट व गेमिफिकेसन के माध्यम से शिक्षा को अधिक रोचक बनाया जाता है। AI का प्रयोग से प्राक्टरिंग को सरल बनाता है जिसके माध्यम से परीक्षा केंद्र पर निगरानी रखी जाती  है जो परीक्षा के दौरान किए जा रहे संदिग्ध गतिविधियों का विश्लेषण कर के कंट्रोल रूम को सूचित करता है जिससे परीक्षा की शुचिता कायम रहे।

स्वास्थ सेवा में AI- AI के ‘मशीन लर्निंग’ टूल, एल्गोरिदम के माध्यम से कैंसर जैसी गंभीर बीमारी का शुरुआती दौर में ही पता लगाकर उपचार संभव है। AI के मदद से X-रे , MRI व CT स्कैन जैसे जांच रिपोर्ट का सटीक विश्लेषण करने में सहायता प्राप्त होगी।

मानव सुरक्षा में AI- ‘फेसीयल रेकॉगनिसन’ (मशीन द्वारा चेहरे से पहचान करना), विडिओ विश्लेषण व सार्वजनिक स्थलों पर AI तकनीक के माध्यम से संभावित आपातकाल परिस्थितियों का अनुमान लगाते हुए निश्चित समय के भीतर निराकरण  करने में सहायता मिलेगी जिससे नागरिकों के सुरक्षा व्यवस्था को  और अधिक बेहतर किया जा सकता है।

स्मार्ट कृषि में AI- कृषि के क्षेत्र में नवाचार की दृष्टि से AI की महत्वपूर्ण भूमिका है। AI का प्रयोग कृषि संबंधित डाटा का विश्लेषण, मौसम पूर्वानुमान, पशुधन स्वास्थ, सप्लाई चेन का अनुकूलन तथा AI ड्रोन जैसी तकनीक का प्रयोग कर के कृषि क्षेत्र में गुणवत्ता व किसानों के कार्यकुशलता में अपूर्व वृद्धि की जा सकती हैं।

इकनॉमिक सर्वे रिपोर्ट 2022-23 के अनुसार  भारत की लगभग 65 प्रतिशत आबादी ग्रामीण क्षेत्र में निवास करती है। डिजिटल साक्षरता दर के आकड़ों से स्पष्ट होता है की  डिजिटल संरचना के आधारभूत जानकारी को ठीक से समझने लिए अभी भारतीय समाज संघर्ष कर रहा है। जिसका एक आधार क्षेत्रीय व सामाजिक पृष्ठभूमि भी है। AI से जुड़े सुरक्षा व गोपनीयता संबंधी चिंताएँ जैसे डीप फेक, डिजिटल अरेस्ट, डाटा चोरी जैसी समस्याएँ  भारत जैसी उभरती अर्थव्यवस्था के लिए अभी भी गंभीर चुनौती बनी हुई है जिसके लिए उचित कानून व दिशानिर्देश की अत्यंत  आवश्यकता है। AI एल्गोरिदम, मॉडल और तकनीकी के जटिल संरचना के कारण इसमें विशेषज्ञता प्राप्त करना सभी के लिए आसान नहीं है जिससे ‘डिजिटल डिवाइड’ के खाई को पाटना नीति निर्माताओं के लिए एक चुनौतीपूर्ण  कार्य है।

AI जनित चुनौतियों से निपटने के लिए जिम्मेदार AI के तरफ ध्यान देने की अत्यंत आवश्यकता है। नीति आयोग ‘सभी के लिए जिम्मेदार AI’ पर चर्चा पत्र प्रकाशित करता रहता है जो AI को जिम्मेदारी पूर्वक लागू करने में महत्वपूर्ण रूपरेखा तय करता है। ऐसी संस्कृति का निर्माण करना महत्वपूर्ण है, जो नैतिक मुद्दों पर चर्चा व बहस को प्रोत्साहित करे विचार-मंथन के लिए एक चेकलिस्ट निष्पक्षता, पारदर्शिता ,गोपनीयता, सुरक्षा और नैतिक उपयोग के पाँच आयाम हो सकते हैं। इस तरह मानव प्रयास के सभी विषयों और क्षेत्रों में संदेह, धारणाएँ, चिंताएँ, मुद्दे और समस्याएँ हैं लेकिन इसके लिए मानव अस्तित्व पर एआई के प्रभाव को संक्षेप में खारिज करने की आवश्यकता नहीं है।

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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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In the grand narrative of India’s development, the story of Jammu and Kashmir stands out as a testament to what is possible when policy, perseverance, and people come together. It is a story still unfolding—rooted in history, but firmly focused on the future.

Over the past decade, Jammu and Kashmir has witnessed a remarkable transformation—one that has reshaped its infrastructure, boosted its economy, strengthened grassroots democracy, and opened new avenues for its youth. Guided by the vision of a stronger and more inclusive India, the government’s sustained efforts have brought visible change to a region once defined largely by its challenges.Ten years ago, parts of Jammu and Kashmir struggled with limited connectivity, uneven development, and gaps in governance. Today, the landscape has shifted dramatically. Modern highways, tunnels piercing through the mountains, expanded rail networks, and better air connectivity have not only made travel easier but have also strengthened trade and tourism. The completion of the Banihal-Qazigund tunnel and progress on the ambitious Udhampur-Srinagar-Baramulla rail link stand as symbols of how determined infrastructure development can unite communities and fuel economic activity.

Tourism, long regarded as the soul of Kashmir’s economy, has seen a revival in recent years. Government initiatives to promote both traditional destinations and lesser-known gems—such as Gurez, Bangus, and Lolab—have attracted visitors from across the country. In 2022 and 2023, Kashmir recorded some of the highest tourist footfalls in decades. This surge has reinvigorated local businesses, from hotels and restaurants to artisans and taxi operators, creating employment and spreading prosperity across the region.Beyond tourism, there has been a consistent focus on balanced economic development. The government’s support for horticulture—particularly Kashmir’s famed apples, walnuts, and saffron—has helped farmers reach national and international markets. The establishment of cold storage facilities, better packaging units, and agricultural extension services has ensured that local produce remains competitive and profitable. In Jammu, industries in Samba and Kathua have expanded, generating jobs and supporting families.

Perhaps one of the most meaningful achievements has been the strengthening of grassroots democracy. The successful conduct of panchayat and district development council (DDC) elections in recent years gave thousands of people the opportunity to choose local representatives who understand and speak for their communities. This devolution of power ensures that decisions are made closer to the people they affect, fostering a sense of responsibility and participation in public life.In addition, urban centres like Srinagar and Jammu have undergone significant transformation. Projects under the Smart City Mission have improved roads, drainage systems, parks, and public spaces. Modern LED street lighting, pedestrian walkways, and improved sanitation have not only enhanced daily life but also given these cities a new identity that reflects both tradition and modernity.Healthcare, too, has seen notable progress. New medical colleges and hospitals have come up across Jammu and Kashmir, making quality healthcare accessible to people in both urban and rural areas. During the COVID-19 pandemic, the swift response—from establishing dedicated COVID hospitals to ensuring vaccination drives reached remote villages—highlighted the region’s improved health infrastructure and administrative capacity.

Education remains a pillar of sustainable development, and here, too, the decade has been transformative. Schools and colleges have been modernised with digital classrooms, libraries, and science labs. New institutions, including AIIMS in Jammu and an IIT in Kashmir, have opened doors for young people to pursue higher education without leaving the region. Skill development programmes have empowered thousands of youth, preparing them for careers in IT, entrepreneurship, hospitality, and more.The government has also placed strong emphasis on preserving and promoting the rich cultural heritage of Jammu and Kashmir. Restoration projects for temples, shrines, and historical sites celebrate the region’s pluralistic past and encourage cultural tourism. Efforts to support traditional crafts—such as pashmina weaving, papier-mâché, and carpet making—not only protect heritage but also sustain thousands of artisan families.

Rural development programmes have reached the farthest corners of Jammu and Kashmir, ensuring that the benefits of progress are felt equally. Under the Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana, hundreds of kilometres of rural roads have been constructed or upgraded, connecting villages that were once cut off during harsh winters. These roads bring children to schools, farmers to markets, and patients to healthcare centres, changing daily life in profound ways.Power and energy have seen similar improvements. Hydropower projects have increased generation capacity, ensuring more reliable electricity for homes and businesses. Initiatives to expand renewable energy, like solar power projects, reflect a commitment to sustainable growth and environmental responsibility.Another remarkable area of focus has been women’s empowerment. Programmes encouraging women entrepreneurs, self-help groups, and education have seen impressive participation. Across towns and villages, women are running businesses, leading community projects, and pursuing higher education—reshaping societal expectations and contributing actively to economic growth.Safety and security, long-standing concerns for residents and visitors alike, have improved through better infrastructure, community engagement, and coordinated administration. Peace and stability have enabled everyday life to flourish—children going to school without fear, markets staying open longer, and festivals celebrated with greater vibrancy.

Importantly, these achievements reflect not only government policies but also the resilience and hard work of the people of Jammu and Kashmir. Farmers who adapted to modern techniques, youth who embraced new skills, artisans who preserved centuries-old traditions, and teachers and healthcare workers who served tirelessly—all have played a role in the region’s renewal.Looking forward, several projects promise to deepen this transformation. The construction of the world’s highest railway bridge over the Chenab, completion of major hydropower plants, and expansion of IT parks are poised to open new economic horizons. Plans for new tourism circuits, promotion of adventure tourism, and festivals celebrating local heritage aim to position Jammu and Kashmir as a year-round destination.In education, initiatives to introduce coding, robotics, and digital literacy at the school level prepare the younger generation for an increasingly technological world. In agriculture, plans to introduce high-density apple orchards and modern irrigation promise to boost productivity and income.

Underlying all these efforts is a clear vision: to ensure that every resident of Jammu and Kashmir feels connected, empowered, and part of India’s growth story. The decade gone by demonstrates what focused policies, infrastructure investment, and inclusive governance can achieve. Roads and bridges may symbolise development, but real progress lies in empowering people—giving them choices, opportunities, and the confidence that their aspirations matter.

As Jammu and Kashmir steps into the next decade, there is renewed hope. Hope that children growing up today will know a region defined not by its challenges but by its promise. Hope that visitors from across the country and the world will continue to see the beauty of its landscapes and the warmth of its people. And hope that the spirit of unity and progress will carry this land and its people into a future of peace, prosperity, and pride. In the grand narrative of India’s development, the story of Jammu and Kashmir stands out as a testament to what is possible when policy, perseverance, and people come together. It is a story still unfolding—rooted in history, but firmly focused on the future.

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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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Cruise tourism is about making travel inclusive, sustainable, and accessible. With 7,500 kilometers of coastline, 12 major and 200 minor ports, and a sprawling 20,000-kilometer network of navigable waterways connecting nearly 400 rivers, India holds unparalleled potential.

In the vibrant tapestry of Bharat’s growth story, cruise tourism is rapidly emerging as a powerful new chapter. Under the visionary leadership of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, India’s vast coastlines, mighty rivers, and tranquil backwaters are being transformed into dynamic corridors of connectivity, commerce, and cultural exploration.

Sailing New Waters: A Vision Unfolds

Cruise tourism is not just about luxury voyages; it is about making travel inclusive, sustainable, and accessible. With 7,500 kilometers of coastline, 12 major and 200 minor ports, and a sprawling 20,000-kilometer network of navigable waterways connecting nearly 400 rivers, India holds unparalleled potential. For the first time, serious and structured steps are unlocking this treasure under the Modi government’s focused approach.

The Cruise Bharat Mission: Doubling the Dream

Launched on September 30, 2024, the Cruise Bharat Mission (CBM) symbolizes India’s renewed ambition. It aims to double cruise passenger traffic by 2029. This mission isn’t merely aspirational—it is backed by a comprehensive inter-ministerial framework that ensures seamless coordination among Customs, Immigration, CISF, State Tourism Departments, and local authorities.

By 2029, India anticipates over 1.5 million river cruise passengers across more than 5,000 kilometers of operational waterways—democratizing travel and enriching the economic tapestry of countless communities.

Maritime India Vision 2030: Setting Sail for Global Glory

Under Maritime India Vision (MIV) 2030, the Government envisions India as a leading player in global cruise tourism. With an expected 8X growth in the cruise market over the next decade, the groundwork is being meticulously laid across oceanic, coastal, and riverine sectors.

Forward-looking reforms such as priority berthing for cruise vessels, rationalized port tariffs, waiver of cabotage laws for foreign cruise ships, and the introduction of e-visas and single e-Landing Cards have dramatically reduced bureaucratic hurdles. These bold steps embody the Modi government’s commitment to “Ease of Doing Business” and “Ease of Traveling” alike.

River Cruise Renaissance: A Journey Through India’s Soul

While oceans glisten with promise, India’s rivers are crafting an equally compelling narrative. Initiatives led by the Inland Waterways Authority of India (IWAI) have rejuvenated major waterways like the Ganga, Brahmaputra, Jhelum, and Chenab.

The launch of MV Ganga Vilas—the world’s longest river cruise in 2023—was a global headline and a proud testament to India’s ingenuity. Stretching from Varanasi to Dibrugarh, this luxurious voyage captured the world’s imagination and earned its place in the Limca Book of Records.

Memoranda of Understanding signed with the Governments of Delhi, Jammu & Kashmir, Gujarat, and Madhya Pradesh further underscore a pan-India commitment to developing eco-friendly cruise tourism. Investments worth ₹45,000 crore, announced during the first Inland Waterways Development Council meet, will bolster cruise vessels and terminal infrastructure by 2047.

Infrastructure, Integration, Accessibility, and Policy: The Four Pillars of the Future

The River Cruise Tourism Roadmap 2047 outlines a powerful vision centered on infrastructure, seamless integration, enhanced accessibility, and supportive policy frameworks. More than 30 tourist circuits have already been identified—ensuring that river cruise tourism will not just be a luxury experience, but a mainstream economic driver, weaving prosperity through India’s heartlands.

Modi’s Maritime Magic

The Modi government’s relentless pursuit of unlocking India’s cruise tourism potential is a perfect blend of tradition and modernity. From the sun-dappled backwaters of Kerala to the sacred currents of the Ganga and the Brahmaputra’s mighty flow, India’s waterways are becoming vibrant highways of hope.

With transformative policies, strategic investments, and a passion for inclusive development, cruise tourism is set to become a jewel in India’s tourism crown. The journey is not just about connecting ports—it’s about connecting people, creating livelihoods, and showcasing Bharat’s timeless heritage to the world.

Under Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership, India is truly sailing towards a golden horizon—Viksit Bharat beckons, and the voyage has only just begun.

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The journey of Khadi has now become a dynamic force propelling the nation toward ViksitBharat@2047. The provisional figures for FY 2024-25, a 347% increase in production, a 447% surge in sales, and a historic 49.23% rise in employment generation.

In a remarkable testament to the spirit of Aatmanirbhar Bharat, the Khadi and Village Industries Commission (KVIC) has set an unprecedented record under the visionary leadership of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi. For the first time since India’s independence, the turnover of Khadi and Village Industries has crossed an extraordinary milestone of ₹1.70 lakh crore, signaling not just economic success but a profound transformation in rural empowerment and self-reliance.

The journey of Khadi — once a symbol of India’s freedom struggle — has now become a dynamic force propelling the nation toward Viksit Bharat 2047. The provisional figures for FY 2024-25, a 347% increase in production, a 447% surge in sales, and a historic 49.23% rise in employment generation.

A Revival Rooted in Policy Vision

This revival is no accident; it reflects the Modi government’s unwavering commitment to strengthening India’s rural economy. Guided by the Ministry of MSME, KVIC’s schemes have transformed Khadi from a niche fabric into a vibrant economic movement. Prime Minister Modi’s consistent promotion of Khadi, both on national and global stages, has fueled a renaissance — making Khadi not just a symbol of tradition, but a brand of aspiration and sustainability.

From ₹26,109 crore in production in 2013-14 to ₹1,16,599 crore in 2024-25, and from ₹31,154 crore in sales to ₹1,70,551 crore in the same period, the numbers tell a story of unprecedented growth. Moreover, Khadi Gramodyog Bhawan in New Delhi achieved record sales of ₹110.01 crore, doubling its figures from a decade ago.

Empowering India’s Villages

Employment generation has been at the heart of KVIC’s mission. Under the Modi government’s focused rural policies, KVIC has provided livelihoods to 1.94 crore people — a monumental leap from 1.30 crore in 2013-14. Programs like the Pradhan Mantri Employment Generation Programme (PMEGP) have been game-changers, establishing over 10 lakh new enterprises and creating employment for more than 90 lakh citizens. With ₹27,166 crore disbursed as margin money subsidy, the government has ensured that dreams in rural India find strong financial backing.

Further, through the Gramodyog Vikas Yojana, the government has massively expanded support for traditional industries, distributing nearly 2.88 lakh machines and toolkits — from electric pottery wheels to incense stick machines and honeybee boxes — thereby directly enhancing rural productivity and incomes.

Women at the Center of Rural Transformation

In a significant push for gender empowerment, KVIC’s efforts have ensured that women remain at the center of this transformation. Out of 7.43 lakh trainees trained over the last decade, 57.45% are women. Notably, 80% of Khadi artisans today are women — a clear reflection of inclusive growth. Artisan wages have also seen a record increase of 275% over the last eleven years, improving livelihoods and dignity for millions of rural families.

Building the Foundation for Viksit Bharat

Chairman Shri Manoj Kumar rightly pointed out that these achievements are more than just numbers — they represent the building blocks of a “Viksit Bharat”, an India envisioned to be the third-largest economy by 2047. The success of KVIC underlines the Modi government’s philosophy of development: empowering the last person in the queue, revitalizing rural industries, and restoring pride in India’s indigenous traditions.

In a world increasingly looking for sustainable and ethical products, Khadi and Village Industries have emerged as India’s soft power. Thanks to the forward-looking leadership of Prime Minister Modi, Khadi is not just cloth — it is the fabric of New India’s dreams.

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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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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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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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India climbed to the 34th position in the World Economic Forum’s Travel and Tourism Competitiveness Index in 2019, up from 65th in 2013. India welcomed over 10.93 million foreign tourists in 2019, contributing approximately $30 billion in Forex with over 2 billion domestic trips recorded annually.

India’s position as a leading global tourist destination has been significantly strengthened in the past decade under the visionary leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The proactive policies, substantial investment in infrastructure, and innovative initiatives by the government have played a pivotal role in unlocking the immense potential of the tourism sector, making it a driving force in India’s economic growth and global cultural diplomacy.

Transformational Schemes: Swadesh Darshan and Swadesh Darshan 2.0

The launch of the Swadesh Darshan scheme in 2014-15 marked a turning point in India’s tourism strategy. With an investment of ₹5287.90 crore, the scheme focused on developing thematic circuits across the country, thereby improving tourism infrastructure and creating a seamless experience for visitors. As of now, 76 projects have been sanctioned under this scheme, enabling the development of circuits such as the Buddhist Circuit, North-East Circuit, and Tribal Circuit.

The Modi government took this vision a step further by introducing Swadesh Darshan 2.0 (SD2.0), which emphasizes sustainable and responsible tourism. With a budget allocation of ₹791.25 crore, 34 new projects have been sanctioned under SD2.0. This shift towards sustainable tourism aligns with global environmental goals and promotes India’s image as a responsible tourism destination, showcasing the country’s rich heritage while preserving its natural and cultural resources for future generations.

Enhanced Connectivity: Roads, Air, and Beyond

Improving connectivity to tourist destinations has been a cornerstone of the government’s strategy. The Ministry of Tourism, in coordination with various line ministries and state governments, has prioritized developing infrastructure that connects both prominent and lesser-known destinations.

• Air connectivity has seen a dramatic transformation with the UDAN (Ude Desh ka Aam Nagrik) scheme, which ensures affordable and widespread regional connectivity.
• Road infrastructure, facilitated by initiatives like the Bharatmala Pariyojana, has enhanced access to remote and rural areas, boosting local tourism and economic activity.
• The focus on developing inland waterways and rail connectivity has further diversified transport options for tourists.

Incredible India Digital Platform (IIDP): A Technological Leap

On World Tourism Day, September 27, 2024, the Modi government unveiled the revamped Incredible India Digital Platform (IIDP). This platform is a one-stop solution for travelers and stakeholders, reflecting India’s digital transformation in the tourism sector. Key features of IIDP include:

• Incredible India Content Hub: A rich repository of high-quality images, films, brochures, and newsletters to promote India’s diverse attractions. This resource is invaluable for journalists, researchers, filmmakers, and content creators, amplifying India’s global appeal.
• Personalized Visitor Experiences: Real-time weather updates, city exploration tools, and essential travel services ensure convenience and satisfaction for travelers.
• Integrated Bookings: Partnerships with Online Travel Agents (OTAs) facilitate seamless bookings for flights, hotels, cabs, buses, and tickets to ASI monuments.

The Impact of Proactive Policies: Facts and Figures

The Modi government’s initiatives have had a measurable impact on the tourism sector:

• Foreign Tourist Arrivals (FTAs): India recorded over 10.93 million FTAs in 2019, contributing approximately $30 billion in foreign exchange earnings. Post-pandemic, FTAs have witnessed a robust recovery due to improved infrastructure and marketing efforts.
• Domestic Tourism: Domestic tourism has surged with over 2 billion trips recorded annually, driven by the development of circuits and better connectivity.
• Global Rankings: India has climbed the ranks in the World Economic Forum’s Travel and Tourism Competitiveness Index, reaching the 34th position in 2019 (up from 65th in 2013).

Tourism as a Pillar of Viksit Bharat

Tourism is not just an economic activity but a vehicle for India’s cultural diplomacy, global goodwill, and inclusive development. The government’s efforts in revitalizing India’s tourism sector align seamlessly with the broader vision of Viksit Bharat (Developed India) by 2047. Some key achievements include:

• Promoting lesser-known destinations under Dekho Apna Desh, encouraging Indians to explore domestic locations and boosting local economies.
• Digitization of heritage sites and the introduction of light and sound shows at monuments to enhance visitor experiences.
• Leveraging India’s G20 Presidency to showcase the country’s culture and heritage, attracting global attention.

The Modi government’s tourism policies represent a holistic approach to nation-building, blending economic growth, cultural preservation, and sustainable development. By investing in infrastructure, harnessing technology, and promoting responsible tourism, India has positioned itself as a leading global tourist destination.

The journey to transform India into a global tourism powerhouse is far from over. With continued focus on innovation, sustainability, and inclusivity, India is well on its way to achieving its vision of becoming a top travel destination, contributing significantly to the realization of a developed India by 2047.

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PRASHAD scheme has sanctioned 48 projects across 27 states and union territories promoting India’s rich spiritual and cultural legacy while driving economic growth and sustainable development.

India, a land of diverse cultures and spirituality, has always been a haven for pilgrimage tourism. Recognizing its immense potential to boost tourism, generate employment, and enhance the country’s heritage, the Government of India launched the Pilgrimage Rejuvenation and Spiritual, Heritage Augmentation Drive (PRASHAD) under the visionary leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. This scheme has become a cornerstone in promoting India’s rich spiritual and cultural legacy while driving economic growth and sustainable development.

Objectives of the PRASHAD Scheme

The PRASHAD scheme, initiated by the Ministry of Tourism, aims to rejuvenate pilgrimage sites by improving infrastructure and services. It focuses on developing tourism infrastructure in an integrated, inclusive, and sustainable manner. The key objectives include:

• Enhancing the pilgrim experience through modern amenities.
• Boosting employment opportunities for local communities.
• Promoting skill development and capacity-building initiatives.
• Ensuring sustainability through eco-friendly practices.

Achievements Under PRASHAD

Since its inception, the scheme has sanctioned 48 projects across 27 states and union territories, with a cumulative sanctioned amount running into hundreds of crores. The success stories include:

1. Andhra Pradesh: Development of pilgrimage amenities at iconic sites like Amaravati, Srisailam Temple, and Simhachalam, showcasing 100% progress in projects initiated in earlier years.
2. Assam: The renowned Kamakhya Temple has seen a complete transformation, with state-of-the-art facilities enhancing the pilgrim experience.
3. Gujarat: Key sites like Dwarka and Somnath were developed under the scheme, with amenities such as promenades, ghats, and sound-and-light shows.
4. Varanasi: The Varanasi Phase-I project in Uttar Pradesh revitalized one of India’s holiest cities, integrating modern facilities while preserving its spiritual essence.

Employment and Community Development

A significant aspect of the PRASHAD scheme is its contribution to employment generation. By involving local communities in skill development and hospitality training, the scheme has enabled residents to find meaningful employment opportunities. Additionally, the integration of features like solid waste management systems, solar panels, and CCTV installations ensures that the projects adhere to sustainable and safe practices.

PRASHAD and the Special Assistance Scheme (SASCI)

Complementing PRASHAD, the government has also launched the Special Assistance to States/Union Territories for Capital Investment (SASCI), with an allocation of ₹3,295.76 crore for 40 projects across 23 states. This initiative aims to elevate iconic tourist centers to global standards, leveraging India’s cultural and historical assets.

Transforming Pilgrimage Tourism: By the Numbers

• 48 projects sanctioned under PRASHAD across 27 states/UTs.
• Major milestones: Projects in Srisailam, Dwarka, Amaravati, and Kamakhya Temple achieved 100% completion.
• Projects focus on diverse elements such as tourist facilitation centers, multi-level parking, ghats, and sound and light shows.
• Integration of modern systems like solid waste management and renewable energy sources ensures sustainable tourism.

Impact of the Modi Government’s Vision

Under PM Modi’s leadership, the focus on cultural heritage and tourism development has not only elevated India’s global standing but also empowered local communities. The PRASHAD scheme exemplifies the government’s commitment to preserving India’s spiritual heritage while fostering economic growth. By aligning tourism development with the vision of a Viksit Bharat (Developed India), the Modi government is setting a benchmark in public policy and governance.

The PRASHAD scheme is a testimony to the Modi government’s visionary approach to inclusive and sustainable development. It has transformed India’s pilgrimage tourism landscape by blending cultural preservation with modern infrastructure. As the nation progresses toward its goal of becoming a global tourism hub, initiatives like PRASHAD will play a pivotal role in realizing the dream of New India—a nation proud of its heritage and committed to its future.

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भारत में पुलिस सुधारों के लिए कई समितियों का गठन किया गया जिनमें पद्मनाभैया समिति(2000) व मलिमठ समिति(2002-03) के सुझाव उल्लेखनीय है। पुलिस सुधारों के संबंध में सर्वोच्च न्यायालय ने 2006 में पूर्व पुलिस प्रमुख प्रकाश सिंह की याचिका पर सात मुख्य निर्देश दिए थे जो सुधारों की दिशा में एक बड़ा लेकिन अपर्याप्त कदम रहा।

भारत की स्वतंत्रता के इतने वर्षों बाद भी पुलिस व्यवस्था यथावत बनी हुई है। इसमें नाममात्र के ही सुधार हुए हैं जो कि विश्व स्तर के कही से भी नहीं है। ना ही वर्तमान भारत के सामाजिक तानेबाने को नियंत्रण के लिए उचित। किसान आंदोलन से लेकर शाहीनबाग घटना, असामाजिक तत्वों द्वारा पुलिस पर पथराव, भीड़ का आये दिन अनियंत्रित हो जाना जैसी कितनी ही घटनाएं है जिसके सामने वर्तमान पुलिस व्यवस्था अपने आप को असहाय महसूस करती है। उसमें प्रमुख कारण पुलिस कानून का अंग्रेजो के समय का होना व पुलिस बल की अत्यधिक कमी के कारण।

पुलिस विभाग सबसे पहले तो बल की कमी से परेशान हैं। 12 घंटे से ज्यादा पुलिस जवानों को ड्यूटी पर रहना पड़ता है जो कि मानव अधिकारों के खिलाफ है। 2006 में पुलिस सुधार के लिए भारत की सर्वोच्च न्यायालय ने केंद्र व सभी राज्यों को महत्वपूर्ण दिशानिर्देश दिये थे लेकिन आज तक अधिकांश राज्यों ने इन सुधारों को लेकर कोई विशेष गंभीरता नहीं दिखाई है। एक ऐसे समय में जब हम विकसित भारत के लक्ष्य को लेकर कार्य कर रहे और ऐसे में पुलिस व्यवस्था में कोई आमूलचूल परिवर्तन नहीं करना, इस लक्ष्य को पूर्णतः प्राप्त नहीं किया जा सकता है। अब जब आपराधिक कानूनों में सुधार कर नये कानून लागू हो चुके हैं तो पुलिस में भी वर्तमान भारत की सामाजिक चुनौतियों के अनुसार सुधार होना चाहिए।

मुख्यतः पुलिस का काम होता है अपराध का अन्वेषण, विधि व्यवस्था से जुड़े दायित्व, सूचनाएं जुटाने के साथ पेट्रोलिंग भी करनी पड़ती है। पुलिसकर्मियों को नेताओं, मंत्रियों, न्यायमूर्तियों, वीआइपी ड्यूटी और त्योहारों व विशेष आयोजनों के दौरान व्यवस्था की देखरेख में भी लगाया जाता है। इन कामों के साथ पुलिसकर्मियों को न्यायलयों से जुड़े जटिल कार्य भी करने होते हैं।

वर्तमान में पुलिस बल के साथ एक ओर गंभीर समस्या फिटनेस को लेकर है। काम के तय घंटे न होने के कारण से फिट और स्वस्थ नहीं हैं अधिकांश पुलिस अधिकारी, वहीं इस तरह की समस्या के कारण ही आम लोगों के साथ खराब व्यवहार से बिगड़ी पुलिस की छवि। उनके खराब प्रदर्शन व व्यवहार के पीछे उनका मानसिक स्वास्थ्य व तनाव भी बड़ा कारण है जो निरंतर ड्यूटी करने के कारण हो जाता है।

पुलिस सुधार व उससे संबंधित सभी आयोग, सिफारिशें, समितियां, न्यायिक दिशानिर्देश पर तथ्यपरक जानकारी देखे तो सबसे पहले धर्मवीर आयोग(जिसे भारत का सबसे पहला राष्ट्रीय पुलिस आयोग भी कह सकते है।) पुलिस सुधारों को लेकर सबसे पहले 1977 में धर्मवीर की अध्यक्षता में आयोग का गठन किया गया। इसे राष्ट्रीय पुलिस आयोग कहा गया। चार वर्षों में इस आयोग ने केंद्र सरकार को आठ रिपोर्टें सौंपी थी, लेकिन इसकी सिफारिशों पर अमल नहीं किया गया। इस आयोग ने पुलिस सुधार के संबंध में प्रमुख सिफारिशों में हर राज्य में एक प्रदेश सुरक्षा आयोग का गठन, जांच कार्यों को शांति व्यवस्था संबंधित कामकाज से अलग किया जाए, पुलिस प्रमुख की नियुक्ति के लिए विशेष प्रक्रिया अपनाई जाए, पुलिस प्रमुख का कार्यकाल तय किया जाए व एक नया पुलिस अधिनियम बनाया जाए। लेकिन इन सिफारिशों पर आजतक ठीक से ध्यान भी नहीं दिया गया व ना ही अमल किया गया।

इसके बाद भारत में पुलिस सुधारों के लिए कई समितियों का गठन किया गया जिनमें पद्मनाभैया समिति(2000) व आपराधिक न्याय प्रणाली में सुधार के लिए मलिमठ समिति(2002-03) के सुझाव उल्लेखनीय है। 1998 में सर्वोच्च न्यायालय के निर्देश पर जूलियो रिबेरो की अध्यक्षता में एक अन्य समिति का गठन किया गया था। इसके बाद पुलिस सुधारों के संबंध में सर्वोच्च न्यायालय ने 2006 में पूर्व पुलिस प्रमुख प्रकाश सिंह की याचिका पर सात मुख्य निर्देश दिए। जिनमें;

1. राज्य सुरक्षा आयोग का गठन ताकि पुलिस बिना किसी दबाव के काम कर सके,
2. पुलिस शिकायत प्राधिकरण बनाया जाए, जो पुलिस के खिलाफ आने वाली गंभीर शिकायतों की जांच कर सके,
3. तीसरा थाना प्रभारी से लेकर पुलिस प्रमुख तक का एक स्थान पर दो वर्ष का कार्यकाल,
4. नया पुलिस अधिनियम लागू किया जाए,
5. अपराध की विवेचना और कानून व्यवस्था के लिए अलग पुलिस की व्यवस्था की जाए,
6. पुलिस उपाधीक्षक के पद से नीचे के अधिकारियों के स्थानांतरण, पोस्टिंग, पदोन्नति और सेवा से संबंधित अन्य मामलों को तय करने के लिए राज्य स्तर पर पुलिस स्थापना बोर्ड बनाया जाए व
7. सातवां निर्देश केंद्र सरकार को सुझाव दिया गया कि वह केन्द्रीय स्तर पर एक राष्ट्रीय सुरक्षा आयोग बनाए।

इसका काम केन्द्रीय पुलिस संगठनों के प्रमुख के चयन और नियुक्ति के लिए एक पैनल तैयार करना था, जिनका न्यूनतम कार्यकाल दो वर्ष का हो। लेकिन राज्यों ने इन दिशानिर्देशों पर आजतक ठीक से ध्यान नहीं दिया व इन सुधारों को येनकेन तरीकों से शक्तिहीन बनाने के ज्यादा प्रयास किये।

पुलिस के कार्य पद्धति पर हर बार प्रश्न उठाए जाते हैं लेकिन हमारा समाज व राजनीतिज्ञ पुलिसकर्मियों पर काम के बोझ के विषय में आवाज नहीं उठाते। ना ही अधिकांश राजनीतिक दल अपने घोषणा पत्र में भी कभी इस विषय पर विशेष घोषणा नहीं करते। वह पुलिस जो एक दिन में बारह घंटे से ज्यादा काम करती हैं। जिन्हें माह में एक बार भी वीक आफ नहीं मिलता। मुश्किल से मिलने वाली छुट्टी के दिन भी अक्सर पुलिस को फिर काम पर बुलाया जाता है ! वहीं भारत में हर सप्ताह दो त्यौहार, पर्व या फिर बड़े आयोजन होते हैं जिसे संभालने की जिम्मेदारी पुलिस की होती है। ऐसे में पुलिसकर्मियों की कार्यप्रणाली व कार्य में गुणवत्ता कैसे आऐगी ?

आखिरकार पुलिस भी मानव है कोई मशीन नहीं। समाज व सरकारों में बैठे जिम्मेदार लोगों को इस विषय में गंभीरता से चर्चा व चिंतन करना चाहिए। अक्सर सवाल उठते हैं कि जब पुलिस की जवाबदेही तय करने के लिए राजनीतिक दल और समाज हमेशा मुखर रहता है तो एक कर्मचारी के तौर पर उनको मानवीय अधिकारों से वंचित रखे जाने के खिलाफ कहीं से कोई आवाज क्यों नहीं उठती है। स्वतंत्रता के बाद से ही पुलिस सुधारों की बात हो रही है। 1996 में पूर्व पुलिस अधिकारी प्रकाश सिंह पुलिस सुधारों की मांग लेकर सर्वोच्च न्यायालय पहुंचे थे लेकिन आज भी धरातल पर स्थिति में परिवर्तन नहीं आया।

आखिरकार पुलिस व्यवस्था में काम कर रहे लोग भी तो मानव है। उनका भी परिवार होता है। उन्हें भी अपने बच्चों के साथ के छुट्टी मनाने का अधिकार है लेकिन सरकार व राज्यों ने इस ओर कोई सुधार नहीं किया। अब उचित समय है कि जल्द से जल्द पुलिस व्यवस्था में अमूलचूल परिवर्तन किया जाए और पुराने पुलिस कानून के स्थान पर नया पुलिस कानून बने। साथ ही पुलिस व्यवस्था में काम कर रहे नागरिकों के गरिमामय जीवन के लिए भी जरूरी कदम उठाये जाए।

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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.

Building an Innovation Ecosystem

The government’s commitment to fostering a strong innovation ecosystem is evident in initiatives such as the DISHA Program (Developing Innovations, Successful Harnessing, and Adoption), which aims to strengthen India’s knowledge economy and bolster Atmanirbhar Bharat. The program supports faculty members and students in pioneering disruptive technologies across multiple disciplines, ensuring that India remains at the forefront of global innovation.

To further integrate research across domains, the Anusandhan National Research Foundation (ANRF) has been launched. This initiative bridges the gap between science, humanities, and social sciences, fostering interdisciplinary collaborations that will drive India’s research landscape towards greater innovation and practical implementation.

Strategic Focus on Deep-Tech and Emerging Technologies

India’s future economic growth will be defined by homegrown advancements in artificial intelligence (AI), biotechnology, and quantum computing. With AI-driven innovations revolutionizing healthcare, India is already deploying mobile telemedicine units and AI-powered diagnostics to make high-quality healthcare more accessible. However, as Dr. Jitendra Singh emphasized, AI must complement human intelligence rather than replace it. A balanced approach integrating AI with human expertise will ensure sustainable and ethical technological adoption.

In addition, India’s push towards deep-tech research in biotechnology and quantum computing will unlock new frontiers in healthcare, data security, and industrial automation. These advancements will not only make India self-reliant in critical sectors but will also enhance its global competitiveness.

Private Sector Participation and Policy Shifts

A key policy transformation has been the opening up of strategic sectors such as space technology and nuclear research to private players. Previously the domain of government institutions, these sectors are now witnessing rapid advancements through private sector involvement. Startups and industry leaders are contributing to satellite development, launch services, and space-based applications, accelerating India’s presence in the global space economy. Similarly, the government’s decision to involve private enterprises in nuclear energy is a game-changer for energy security and sustainability.

R&D as a Catalyst for Economic Growth

Investment in research and development is not merely an academic or scientific pursuit; it is a critical driver of economic growth. By supporting young innovators and promoting industry-academia collaboration, India is nurturing a pipeline of skilled professionals and entrepreneurs who will shape its technological future. The government’s vision aligns with making India not just a consumer of global technologies but a leading creator and exporter of cutting-edge solutions.

Vision 2047: A Knowledge-Based Economy for Viksit Bharat

As India moves towards its centenary of independence in 2047, its trajectory must be shaped by sustained investments in knowledge creation, research commercialization, and human capital development. The government’s unwavering focus on deep-tech research, skill development, and policy reforms will be instrumental in positioning India as a global innovation powerhouse. With young innovators leading the charge, India’s journey towards Viksit Bharat will be characterized by self-reliance, technological leadership, and inclusive growth.

In conclusion, the doubling of R&D expenditure in the last decade is not just a statistic; it is a testament to India’s determination to build a knowledge-driven economy. By prioritizing research, fostering industry-academia partnerships, and enabling private sector participation, India is laying the foundation for a future that is defined by innovation, resilience, and global leadership.

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हमारा प्राचीन भारत केवल योग और तप का केंद्र नहीं था, अपितु युद्धकला, शारीरिक दक्षता और विविध प्रकार की खेलकूद परंपराओं का भी उद्गम स्थल था। आज जब भारत आत्मनिर्भरता की ओर अग्रसर है, तब खेलों को केवल मनोरंजन का साधन नहीं, बल्कि राष्ट्रीय चरित्र निर्माण का एक सशक्त माध्यम मानकर आगे बढ़ना होगा।

खेल: केवल प्रतियोगिता नहीं, चरित्र निर्माण की पाठशाला

यदि खेलों को केवल पदक जीतने तक सीमित कर दिया जाए, तो यह एक संकीर्ण दृष्टिकोण होगा। खेल केवल प्रतिस्पर्धा नहीं, बल्कि व्यक्तित्व और राष्ट्रनिर्माण का प्रमुख आधार है। एक खिलाड़ी जब मैदान में उतरता है, तो वह केवल व्यक्तिगत विजय के लिए नहीं खेलता, बल्कि वह अपने भीतर अनुशासन, परिश्रम, धैर्य और राष्ट्रभक्ति जैसे मूल्यों को आत्मसात करता है। यह वही गुण हैं, जो किसी भी समाज और राष्ट्र को शक्ति प्रदान करते हैं।

राष्ट्रीय स्वयंसेवक संघ का दृष्टिकोण भी यही रहा है कि समाज का निर्माण केवल बौद्धिक विकास से नहीं, अपितु शारीरिक, मानसिक और चारित्रिक उत्थान से होगा। संघ की शाखाओं में खेलों को अनिवार्य रूप से शामिल किया गया है, क्योंकि ये खेल केवल शरीर को नहीं, बल्कि मन और आत्मा को भी सशक्त बनाते हैं।

खेलों के विकास में भारतीयता का समावेश

आज जब हम खेलों में वैश्विक पहचान बना रहे हैं, तब हमें यह भी स्मरण रखना होगा कि हमारी खेल नीति में भारतीयता का समावेश अनिवार्य है। पश्चिमी देशों की नकल मात्र से हम अपनी पहचान को सुदृढ़ नहीं कर सकते। खेलों को भारतीय परंपरा, योग, आयुर्वेद और संस्कारों से जोड़कर उन्हें स्वदेशी रंग में रंगना होगा।

स्वदेशी खेलों को पुनर्जीवित करना कबड्डी, खो खो, मलखंब और कुश्ती जैसे पारंपरिक खेल हमारी सांस्कृतिक धरोहर हैं। इन खेलों को केवल ग्रामीण भारत तक सीमित न रखकर राष्ट्रीय स्तर पर बढ़ावा देना चाहिए।

गांव गांव तक खेल सुविधाएँ यदि भारत को खेलों में विश्वगुरु बनाना है, तो सुविधाओं का विकेंद्रीकरण करना होगा। ओलंपिक विजेताओं का चयन केवल महानगरों से नहीं, बल्कि गाँवों और कस्बों से होना चाहिए, जहाँ वास्तविक प्रतिभाएँ जन्म लेती हैं।

संघ के खेल दर्शन से प्रेरणा राष्ट्रीय स्वयंसेवक संघ के शिविरों और शाखाओं में जो खेल खेले जाते हैं, वे केवल मनोरंजन नहीं, बल्कि राष्ट्रसेवा, परिश्रम और बलिदान की भावना से जुड़े होते हैं। यही भावना यदि राष्ट्रीय खेल नीति का हिस्सा बने, तो हमारे खिलाड़ी केवल पदक विजेता ही नहीं, बल्कि राष्ट्रनायक भी बनेंगे।

खेल और राष्ट्र निर्माण का संबंध

विकसित भारत की परिकल्पना केवल आर्थिक आंकड़ों में प्रगति से नहीं, बल्कि नागरिकों के आत्मबल और संकल्पशक्ति से भी जुड़ी है। जब एक राष्ट्र खेलों में आगे बढ़ता है, तो वह केवल अपनी एथलेटिक क्षमता नहीं दिखाता, बल्कि यह सिद्ध करता है कि उसकी युवा शक्ति अनुशासित, परिश्रमी और मानसिक रूप से सुदृढ़ है।

प्रधानमंत्री मोदी जी के नेतृत्व में “खेलो इंडिया” और “फिट इंडिया” जैसे अभियान इस दिशा में एक क्रांतिकारी कदम हैं। परंतु खेलों के विकास को केवल सरकारी योजनाओं तक सीमित न रखकर इसे समाज के दायित्व के रूप में स्वीकार करना होगा। संघ की विचारधारा भी यही कहती है कि समाज जब स्वयं अपनी शक्ति को पहचानकर कार्य करता है, तब वह किसी भी लक्ष्य को प्राप्त कर सकता है।

भारत को विकसित राष्ट्र बनाने के लिए खेलों को केवल एक सेक्टर के रूप में नहीं, बल्कि एक आंदोलन के रूप में देखना होगा। खेलों को हमारी शिक्षा व्यवस्था, सांस्कृतिक परंपरा और राष्ट्र निर्माण की प्रक्रिया से जोड़ना होगा।

यदि हर विद्यार्थी, हर युवा, हर स्वयंसेवक और हर नागरिक अपने जीवन में खेलों की भावना को आत्मसात कर ले, तो भारत केवल खेलों में ही नहीं, बल्कि हर क्षेत्र में विश्वगुरु बनने की दिशा में अग्रसर होगा। यही “विकसित भारत” की सच्ची संकल्पना होगी।

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उत्तरप्रदेश का धार्मिक पर्यटन भारत की समृद्ध सांस्कृतिक परंपरा और आर्थिक शक्ति का प्रतीक बन गया है। ऐसे में जब हम वाराणसी, अयोध्या और प्रयागराज को एक दृष्टि में देखते हैं तो योगी का उत्तर प्रदेश भारत की सांस्कृतिक शक्ति का वैश्विक विस्तार करता दिखाई देता है।

 

लेखक – माधवेन्द्र प्रताप सिंह, विधायक, सबायजपुर, हरदोई, (उ.प्र.)

योगी आदित्यनाथ के नेतृत्व में उत्तर प्रदेश सरकार और प्रधानमंत्री नरेंद्र मोदी के कुशल मार्गदर्शन में महाकुंभ 2025 एक ऐतिहासिक सफलता के रूप में उभरा है। महाकुंभ ने न केवल भारत के धार्मिक और सांस्कृतिक गौरव को पुनर्स्थापित किया, बल्कि यह उत्तर प्रदेश और देश की आर्थिक और बुनियादी ढांचे की प्रगति का भी प्रतीक बना। मोदी सरकार की दूरदर्शी नीति और योगी सरकार की कुशल प्रशासनिक रणनीति ने इसे एक वैश्विक आयोजन बना दिया। यह आयोजन केवल एक धार्मिक समागम नहीं, बल्कि भारत की समृद्ध सांस्कृतिक परंपरा और आर्थिक शक्ति का प्रतीक बन गया है। ऐसे में जब हम वाराणसी, अयोध्या और प्रयागराज को एक दृष्टि में देखते हैं तो योगी का उत्तर प्रदेश भारत की सांस्कृतिक शक्ति का वैश्विक विस्तार करता दिखाई देता है।

योगी का उत्तर प्रदेश: भारत के वैश्विक पर्यटन और सॉफ्ट पावर का नया केंद्र

उत्तर प्रदेश, जो कभी अपनी अव्यवस्थाओं और पिछड़ेपन के लिए जाना जाता था, आज मुख्यमंत्री योगी आदित्यनाथ के कुशल नेतृत्व में भारत का एक नया वैश्विक पर्यटन और सांस्कृतिक शक्ति केंद्र बनता जा रहा है। न केवल धार्मिक पर्यटन बल्कि आध्यात्मिक, सांस्कृतिक, ऐतिहासिक और पारिस्थितिक पर्यटन को भी राज्य में नई ऊँचाइयाँ मिल रही हैं। योगी सरकार ने बीते वर्षों में पर्यटन विकास के क्षेत्र में अनेक ऐतिहासिक कदम उठाए हैं, जिससे उत्तर प्रदेश विश्व मानचित्र पर एक प्रमुख गंतव्य बन चुका है।

महाकुंभ 2025  से 3 लाख करोड़ रुपये का योगदान

महाकुंभ 2025 के आयोजन पर कुल 4,000 करोड़ रुपये खर्च किए गए, जिसमें से केवल 1,500 करोड़ रुपये मेले की व्यवस्थाओं पर लगे, जबकि शेष राशि प्रयागराज के समग्र बुनियादी ढांचे के विकास में निवेश की गई। इस निवेश के बदले में उत्तर प्रदेश की अर्थव्यवस्था को 3 लाख करोड़ रुपये का योगदान मिला, जो पर्यटन, व्यापार और रोजगार के नए अवसरों से संभव हुआ। इस बार के महाकुंभ में 50 करोड़ से अधिक श्रद्धालु देश-विदेश से आए, जो इसे विश्व का सबसे बड़ा सांस्कृतिक आयोजन बनाता है। योगी सरकार द्वारा किए गए बुनियादी ढांचे के विकास कार्यों से पर्यटन उद्योग को नई ऊँचाइयाँ मिलीं। होटल, परिवहन, स्थानीय हस्तशिल्प और खाद्य उद्योग में लाखों लोगों को रोजगार मिला।

आंकड़ों में उत्तर प्रदेश का पर्यटन विकास

2023 में उत्तर प्रदेश में 32 करोड़ से अधिक घरेलू पर्यटकों का आगमन हुआ, जो भारत में सबसे अधिक है। इसी वर्ष विदेशी पर्यटकों की संख्या 40 लाख को पार कर गई थी जिससे राज्य की सॉफ्ट पावर को वैश्विक स्तर पर मजबूती मिली।

काशी विश्वनाथ धाम के पुनर्निर्माण के बाद वाराणसी में 2022-23 में पर्यटकों की संख्या 7 करोड़ पार कर गई, जिससे यह एक प्रमुख आध्यात्मिक केंद्र बन गया। 11 जनवरी से 11 फ़रवरी 2025 के बीच काशी विश्वनाथ मंदिर में डेढ़ करोड़ से ज़्यादा श्रद्धालुओं ने दर्शन किए।इस दौरान हर दिन 7 से 8 लाख लोग दर्शन करने आए।

साल 2024 में अयोध्या उत्तर प्रदेश का सबसे अधिक लोकप्रिय स्थल बन गया तथा अयोध्या में 13 करोड़ 55 लाख घरेलू पर्यटक और 3,000 से अधिक अंतरराष्ट्रीय आगंतुक पहुंचे। वहीं, 2025 के नए साल के पहले दिन ही करीब 10 लाख श्रद्धालु अयोध्या पहुंचे, जो इसकी बढ़ती लोकप्रियता को दर्शाता है। श्रीराम मंदिर के उद्घाटन के बाद से अब तक करोड़ों लोग अयोध्या आ चुके हैं, जिससे यह वैश्विक पर्यटन का एक प्रमुख केंद्र बन गया है। राम मंदिर के उद्घाटन के साथ ही अयोध्या धार्मिक और सांस्कृतिक पर्यटन का एक बड़ा केंद्र बन चुकी है, जो राज्य की अर्थव्यवस्था और सॉफ्ट पावर को भी सशक्त कर रही है।

महाकुंभ में 33 दिनों में 50 करोड़ से ज्यादा श्रद्धालुओं ने स्नान किया। इतिहास में ये सबसे बड़ा आयोजन रिकॉर्ड किया गया। अमेरिका और चीन की कुल आबादी के बाद तीसरी सबसे बड़ी आबादी के बराबर लोग प्रयागराज पहुंचे हैं।

पर्यटन क्षेत्र में इस अभूतपूर्व प्रगति के चलते उत्तर प्रदेश को 2023 में ‘सर्वश्रेष्ठ पर्यटन राज्य’ के रूप में राष्ट्रीय पर्यटन पुरस्कार से सम्मानित किया गया।

योगी सरकार के प्रमुख पर्यटन एवं सांस्कृतिक परियोजनाएँ

1. अयोध्या – वैश्विक रामनगरी की ओर कदम

अयोध्या को भारत की सांस्कृतिक राजधानी बनाने के लिए योगी सरकार ने राम मंदिर निर्माण के साथ-साथ कई महत्वपूर्ण बुनियादी ढांचा परियोजनाओं पर कार्य किया है। शहर को वैश्विक पर्यटन केंद्र के रूप में विकसित करने के लिए महार्षि वाल्मीकि अंतर्राष्ट्रीय हवाई अड्डे का निर्माण किया गया, जिससे देश-विदेश के श्रद्धालु आसानी से अयोध्या पहुंच सकें। इसके अलावा, भव्य राम पथ, धर्म पथ और भक्ति पथ का निर्माण किया गया, जिससे मंदिर तक की यात्रा सुगम हो सके। अयोध्या धाम रेलवे स्टेशन का आधुनिकीकरण कर इसे आधुनिक सुविधाओं से लैस किया गया है। नगर के कायाकल्प और विकास को बढ़ावा देने के लिए 84 कोसी परिक्रमा मार्ग का विकास किया गया, जिससे धार्मिक यात्राओं को अधिक सुविधाजनक बनाया जा सके। साथ ही, रामायण सर्किट का विस्तार कर अयोध्या को भारतीय सांस्कृतिक और आध्यात्मिक पर्यटन का केंद्र बनाने की दिशा में एक महत्वपूर्ण कदम उठाया गया है।

2. काशी का कायाकल्प – विश्व धरोहर का पुनरुद्धार

काशी विश्वनाथ कॉरिडोर परियोजना के तहत मंदिर क्षेत्र का 5 लाख वर्ग फुट तक विस्तार किया गया, जिससे श्रद्धालुओं को अधिक सुविधाएं मिल सकें और काशी की आध्यात्मिक महत्ता और अधिक बढ़ सके। इसके साथ ही, गंगा घाटों का पुनरुद्धार किया गया और सांस्कृतिक पर्यटन को बढ़ावा देने के लिए विभिन्न योजनाएं चलाई गईं। देव दीपावली जैसे भव्य आयोजनों को वैश्विक पहचान दिलाई गई, जिससे काशी की सांस्कृतिक धरोहर को अंतरराष्ट्रीय स्तर पर नई प्रतिष्ठा मिली। इसके अलावा, जी-20 सम्मेलनों के सफल आयोजन ने काशी को वैश्विक मंच पर एक महत्वपूर्ण सांस्कृतिक और आध्यात्मिक केंद्र के रूप में स्थापित कर दिया।

3. मथुरा-वृंदावन: कृष्ण जन्मभूमि को विश्व केंद्र बनाना

ब्रज तीर्थ विकास परिषद द्वारा 500 करोड़ से अधिक की योजनाओं के तहत वृंदावन, मथुरा और गोवर्धन में पर्यटन सुविधाओं का व्यापक विकास किया गया है। वृंदावन में यमुना नदी के किनारे स्थित प्रमुख पर्यटन स्थलों का पुनरुद्धार किया गया, जिससे श्रद्धालुओं और पर्यटकों को अधिक सुविधाएं मिल सकें। गिरिराज पर्वत परिक्रमा मार्ग का आधुनिक विकास किया गया, जिससे भक्तजन बिना किसी कठिनाई के अपनी आस्था से जुड़े इस पवित्र स्थल की परिक्रमा कर सकें। इसके अलावा, भगवान कृष्ण से जुड़े विभिन्न धार्मिक स्थलों पर आधुनिक सुविधाओं का निर्माण कर ब्रज क्षेत्र को एक विश्वस्तरीय आध्यात्मिक और सांस्कृतिक पर्यटन केंद्र के रूप में विकसित किया जा रहा है।

4. बौद्ध पर्यटन का विस्तार: कुशीनगर से सारनाथ तक

योगी सरकार ने उत्तर प्रदेश को वैश्विक बौद्ध पर्यटन केंद्र के रूप में स्थापित करने की दिशा में महत्वपूर्ण कदम उठाए हैं। कुशीनगर अंतर्राष्ट्रीय हवाई अड्डे के उद्घाटन से दक्षिण एशियाई देशों, विशेषकर बौद्ध अनुयायियों की बड़ी संख्या वाले जापान, थाईलैंड और श्रीलंका से सीधी कनेक्टिविटी सुनिश्चित हुई है। सारनाथ, श्रावस्ती, संकिसा और कौशांबी जैसे बौद्ध स्थलों पर विश्वस्तरीय पर्यटन सुविधाओं का विस्तार किया गया है, जिससे इन ऐतिहासिक स्थलों पर आने वाले श्रद्धालुओं और पर्यटकों की संख्या में उल्लेखनीय वृद्धि हुई है। परिणामस्वरूप, उत्तर प्रदेश बौद्ध धर्मावलंबियों के लिए एक प्रमुख आध्यात्मिक केंद्र बनकर उभर रहा है।

5. फिल्म सिटी: ग्लोबल एंटरटेनमेंट हब की ओर बढ़ता यूपी

फ़िल्में सांस्कृतिक राजदूत का कार्य करती हैं और दक्षिण कोरिया के फिल्मोद्योग इसका उदाहरण है। योगी सरकार उत्तर प्रदेश को फिल्म निर्माण और मनोरंजन उद्योग के नए केंद्र के रूप में विकसित करने के लिए नोएडा में विश्वस्तरीय फिल्म सिटी की स्थापना कर रही है। यह परियोजना 1,000 एकड़ से अधिक क्षेत्र में विकसित की जा रही है और इसे भारत की सबसे उन्नत एवं तकनीकी रूप से सुसज्जित फिल्म सिटी बनाने का लक्ष्य रखा गया है।

इस फिल्म सिटी में हॉलीवुड और बॉलीवुड दोनों के फिल्म निर्माताओं को आकर्षित करने के लिए अत्याधुनिक फिल्म स्टूडियो, पोस्ट-प्रोडक्शन सुविधाएं, डिजिटल इफेक्ट्स (VFX) लैब, और अंतरराष्ट्रीय स्तर की शूटिंग लोकेशन्स उपलब्ध कराई जाएंगी। यह न केवल भारतीय सिनेमा बल्कि विदेशी प्रोडक्शन हाउस के लिए भी एक प्रमुख शूटिंग स्थल के रूप में उभरेगा।

इसके अलावा, फिल्म सिटी में एक एक्टिंग स्कूल, फिल्म इंस्टीट्यूट, और अन्य सहायक उद्योगों को भी बढ़ावा दिया जाएगा, जिससे रोजगार के हजारों अवसर सृजित होंगे। यह परियोजना उत्तर प्रदेश को भारतीय मनोरंजन और सांस्कृतिक उद्योग के एक नए ग्लोबल हब के रूप में स्थापित करने में महत्वपूर्ण भूमिका निभाएगी।

पर्यटन और सॉफ्ट पावर में उत्तर प्रदेश की वैश्विक छवि

उत्तर प्रदेश आज केवल पर्यटन का केंद्र नहीं बल्कि भारत की सांस्कृतिक और आध्यात्मिक शक्ति का भी प्रमुख केंद्र बन चुका है। योगी सरकार के नेतृत्व में राज्य ने अपने धार्मिक, सांस्कृतिक और ऐतिहासिक स्थलों का बड़े पैमाने पर पुनरुद्धार किया है, जिससे न केवल भारत बल्कि पूरी दुनिया में इसकी पहचान मजबूत हुई है। अयोध्या और काशी जैसे पवित्र स्थलों के पुनरुद्धार से भारत की सांस्कृतिक कूटनीति को मजबूती मिली है। काशी विश्वनाथ कॉरिडोर और राम मंदिर जैसे भव्य निर्माण कार्यों ने वैश्विक स्तर पर भारत की आध्यात्मिक धरोहर को पुनर्जीवित किया है, जिससे लाखों पर्यटक और श्रद्धालु हर साल इन स्थलों की यात्रा कर रहे हैं।

इसके अलावा, रामायण सर्किट और बौद्ध सर्किट ने भारत के दक्षिण एशियाई देशों जैसे नेपाल, श्रीलंका, थाईलैंड, जापान, म्यांमार और कंबोडिया से सांस्कृतिक और धार्मिक संबंधों को और मजबूत किया है। ये परियोजनाएं न केवल धार्मिक पर्यटन को बढ़ावा देती हैं बल्कि भारत की सॉफ्ट पावर को भी विश्व मंच पर सशक्त करती हैं। उत्तर प्रदेश के मेले, त्योहार और कुंभ जैसे भव्य आयोजन भारत की “वसुधैव कुटुंबकम्” की भावना को दर्शाते हैं। कुंभ मेले में करोड़ों श्रद्धालु और विदेशी पर्यटक शामिल होते हैं, जो भारतीय संस्कृति और आध्यात्मिकता की गहराई को अनुभव करते हैं। इन आयोजनों ने उत्तर प्रदेश को विश्व स्तर पर आध्यात्मिक पर्यटन के सबसे बड़े केंद्रों में से एक बना दिया है।

योगी आदित्यनाथ के नेतृत्व में उत्तर प्रदेश केवल पर्यटन ही नहीं बल्कि सॉफ्ट पावर का एक महत्वपूर्ण केंद्र भी बन चुका है। धार्मिक और सांस्कृतिक स्थलों का पुनरुद्धार, पर्यटन बुनियादी ढांचे का विकास, अंतर्राष्ट्रीय कनेक्टिविटी, और वैश्विक स्तर पर सांस्कृतिक प्रचार उत्तर प्रदेश को नई ऊँचाइयों पर ले जा रहा है। आने वाले वर्षों में, यह राज्य भारत की सांस्कृतिक शक्ति और वैश्विक पर्यटन का केंद्र बनने की पूरी क्षमता रखता है।

(लेखक, सबायजपुर विधानसभा, हरदोई, उ.प्र. से भारतीय जनता पार्टी के विधायक हैं तथा यह इनके निजी विचार हैं।)

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