Aditya Birla Group Chairman and Padma Bhushan awardee Kumar Mangalam Birla stated on Thursday that India is undergoing a historic transformation and holds a once-in-a-generation chance to establish itself as a global economic powerhouse.
This opportunity is underpinned by the country’s demographic advantages, infrastructure development, digital transformation, and expanding financial ecosystem.
Speaking at the public valedictory function of the RSS Karyakarta Vikas Varg-Dwitiya held at Reshimbagh Ground in Nagpur, Birla remarked that although centuries of colonial rule may have undermined India’s self-confidence, the nation has now become the world’s sixth-largest economy and is progressing swiftly towards greater prosperity.
Referring to Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision of ‘Amrit Kaal’, Birla described the period as a unique opportunity that occurs only once in a nation’s lifetime. “India today benefits from a rare convergence of demographic dividends, favourable economic tailwinds, world-class infrastructure development, digital public platforms and financial inclusion. Together, these factors provide a historic opportunity to take the country to new heights,” he said.
The term ‘Amrit Kaal’ denotes the Prime Minister’s concept of a “New India” by 2047. Over the 25 years following India’s 75th Independence Day in 2023, the objective is to restructure the economy through rapid and profitable growth, improved living standards, advances in infrastructure and technology, and the restoration of global trust in India.
Birla noted that despite ongoing global economic and geopolitical uncertainties, this is India’s era. He explained that the world faces competing ambitions of major powers, volatile crude oil prices, and repeated disruptions in global supply chains. “The world has been caught between the competing ambitions of superpowers. Over the past three years, crude oil prices have witnessed extreme fluctuations due to global conflicts, while supply chains have come under stress repeatedly,” he said.
Highlighting the impact of emerging technologies, Birla identified Artificial Intelligence as a transformative force with the capacity to reshape economies and societies on an unprecedented scale. “Artificial Intelligence is standing at our doorstep. This technological revolution is likely to affect more people and industries than any other innovation in history,” he asserted.
Birla emphasised that although these global challenges are considerable, they do not reduce India’s long-term prospects. Rather, they underscore the importance of strengthening national capabilities and resilience. “The challenge before India comes at a time when the nation is in its Amrit Kaal. History teaches us that building national capability and resilience is essential to overcoming challenges and securing long-term progress,” he said.
Expressing confidence in India’s future, Birla affirmed that the country possesses the necessary strengths to manage global uncertainties and emerge as a leading force in the world economy.