India’s Path to a Viksit Bharat

General Studies Paper -3

Context: India’s youth are seen as the country’s greatest strength in driving the vision of a developed nation by 2047.

About the vision of Viksit Bharat by 2047.

• The Viksit Bharat @2047 initiative envisions a developed India by the centenary of independence, focusing on inclusive development, sustainable progress, and effective governance, with youth playing a central role.
• Prime Minister Narendra Modi emphasized that youth are both the agents and beneficiaries of change.
• Strategy
• The Union Budget 2024-25 outlines a comprehensive strategy to achieve ‘Viksit Bharat’ by focusing on nine key priorities that aim to create abundant opportunities for all citizens.
• Productivity and resilience in Agriculture
• Employment & Skilling
• Inclusive Human Resource Development and Social Justice
• Manufacturing & Services
• Urban Development
• Energy Security
• Infrastructure
• Innovation, Research & Development and
• Next Generation Reforms

Key Challenges

• Economic Inequality: The stark economic disparity that exists between various regions, communities, and income groups.
• Skill Development and Education : A large proportion of the youth still lacks the skills required for a rapidly changing job market, particularly in sectors like technology, healthcare, and sustainable industries.
  • Moreover, the educational infrastructure in rural areas remains inadequate, leaving many students without access to high-quality learning.
• Climate Change: The country faces serious environmental challenges, including air and water pollution, deforestation, and climate change impacts. Rapid industrialization, urbanization, and agricultural practices have put significant pressure on natural resources.
• Governance and Corruption: Corruption and inefficiencies in public administration remain pervasive in many areas.
  • This hampers progress and delays essential reforms.
• Technological Impacts: Advancements in AI and technology boost productivity but pose risks such as labor market disruptions and income inequality.

Conclusion and Way Forward

• India’s path to Viksit Bharat is paved with comprehensive initiatives aimed at fostering inclusive growth, enhancing productivity, and promoting sustainable development.
• By addressing key challenges and leveraging its demographic dividend, India is poised to achieve its vision of becoming a developed nation.
• Strengthening institutions, improving transparency, and ensuring accountability at all levels of government are vital for creating a stable and thriving nation.
• The journey towards Viksit Bharat is not just a government mandate but a collective mission that involves every citizen, industry, and institution working towards a brighter and more prosperous future.