India’s contribution to the world: a look back at 2007-2020
The early twenty-first century has seen India’s exponential growth, both socially and economically. However, India’s economic progress has also been hampered by corruption, unemployment and poverty, especially in rural areas. In order to ensure continued growth and development in the coming years, it will be essential that India addresses its key challenges and takes advantage of the opportunities that arise from them. This article looks at what India can do in this area over the next 14 years to maintain its position as one of the world’s fastest growing economies, whilst simultaneously reducing its levels of corruption and poverty and increasing employment levels across rural areas.
I. Digital India
The Indian government is aiming to make broadband connections available in each of its 250,000 villages by 2020. The goal is for 90% of the population (about 600 million people) and 100% of urban areas to be covered. India has also started working on connecting various hospitals and pharmacies across different regions so that doctors can access patient data no matter where they are located.
II. Skill India
Skill India is an initiative of the Government of India, which aims to educate and train 500 million people by 2022. It was launched on 15 July 2015 by Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
It has two objectives. The first is capacity building of institutions involved in skill development, which includes upgrading infrastructure and equipment, adopting best practices and improving quality assurance processes. The second is skilling individuals so that they can avail opportunities generated by economic growth and globalisation.
III. Startup India
In August 2014, India launched its first ever Startup India initiative with the goal of fostering innovation and creating a robust startup ecosystem. This was followed by two more initiatives- Digital India and Skill India. The idea behind these programs is to reduce dependence on foreign technology, create jobs for the youth, and promote entrepreneurship in India. The government has also taken steps like reducing taxes and easing regulations in order to make it easier for startups to succeed in India.
IV. Start with Yourself
It is time for introspection.
What are you doing with your life? Are you happy? Do you have goals that you have not achieved yet? Are you living your best life possible? If not, what needs to change for things to improve? Once you have answered these questions, it is time for action! As Gandhi said, You must be the change you wish to see in the world. So start with yourself and make changes starting now!
V. Education Revolution
The Indian government had set up an ambitious goal of having 100% enrollment in schools and colleges by 2020. The Union Minister of Human Resource Development Shri Prakash Javadekar has pledged Rs 10,000 crore for this goal. As part of its efforts, India has undertaken several initiatives like ‘Digital India’, ‘Skill India’, ‘Make in India’, and so on.
VI. Start Now – Work Hard – Win Big
This is the only time in your life that you can take charge of your future. If you have an idea or are passionate about something, start now. You don’t need a degree, or anyone’s permission – just start. It doesn’t matter how old you are or where you live. You’re never too young or too old and no one will do it for you – so do it yourself!