India, poised to have the world’s largest youth population, stands at a critical juncture in its journey toward achieving “Viksit Bharat 2047” — an equitable, intelligent, wisdom-based, prosperous society. This vision is an urgent necessity, given the challenges we face including low adult literacy rates and the need to create more opportunities for women.
A comprehensive, forward-thinking plan is necessary to address these pressing issues. To achieve “Viksit Bharat 2047,” India must embody the principle of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam — “One Earth, One Family, One Future.” This guiding vision fosters commitment to global excellence while staying grounded in local relevance.
Citizens, particularly young entrepreneurs, play a crucial role in Atma Nirbartha. It is already happening. For example, 382 startups at IIT Madras, valued at ₹56,000 crore, are focused on solving serious and relevant societal challenges, from septic tank cleaning robots to indigenous 3D-printed rockets to replace ageing satellites by developing indigenous technologies.
Educators have a critical role in addressing gaps in higher education and bridging the divide in access to knowledge and opportunities. India’s Gross Enrolment Ratio (GER) still hovers at just 27 per cent, indicating the urgent need for reforms.
Policymakers must create an environment conducive to innovation by nurturing frameworks prioritising indigenous knowledge systems and supporting technologies tailored to India’s unique challenges. The National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 is a positive step toward an inclusive education framework.
Tech sovereignty
At the heart of India’s vision for “Viksit Bharat 2047” lies scientific and technological sovereignty. We must reduce dependency on imported technologies and focus on developing home grown solutions.
By prioritising indigenous R&D, India can accelerate innovation and fostering disruptive technologies. Whether in semiconductor manufacturing, renewable energy, or waste management, the collaborative effort of all stakeholders is essential to create a self-sustaining ecosystem.
Research is the foundation of innovation. India must foster research at every level, from basic to applied and translatory. India’s scientific community must be empowered to challenge conventional paradigms. Encouraging risk-taking, bold thinking, and viewing failure as a necessary step toward success will unlock India’s true potential.
India’s heritage
Finally, India must reclaim and integrate its rich intellectual heritage into its curricula and research systems. From Aryabhata’s algebra to the Upanishadic texts, India has made invaluable contributions to science.
For instance, many are unaware that the concept of gravity was discussed in ancient Indian texts, such as Annam Bhatta’s Tarkasamgraha (c. 1623), which mentions the role of mass in the fall of an object. Such contributions have yet to be fully celebrated, even in India.
The vision of “Viksit Bharat 2047” is ambitious yet achievable. Achieving this vision will require collaboration, innovation, and a commitment to indigenisation.
The writer is Director, IIT Madras