And for a Friday returning to India after a 6 week hiatus in Europe and US, some thoughts….. some musings…..
Nothing like getting back to my own country; the crowds, the confusion, the cacophony of sounds and ruckus, is all so exciting and enlivening compared to the very sterile and almost clinically arranged orderly stale “life” of the Developed World, and the morning dose of Times of India on arrival. Headlines – I.N.D.I.A vs N.D.A. It’s not the cricket match. It’s the excitement of the mega political contest. There is never a dull moment in the largest chaotic but fully functional democracy of the world. But alongside a very comforting report, United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) in its latest July report has commended India for the world’s largest ever poverty elevation. In 15 years, 2005-06 to 2020-21, a staggering 415 million people have been moved out of Multi Dimensional Poverty (MDI). The MDI index encompasses child health, sanitation, water, livelihood diversification, life expectancy, nutrition, electricity etc. etc. Ofcourse, lots more needs to be done. Our journey has just begun.
The current geo-political realignment particularly the increasing bonhomie between India and US, as a consequence to the growing rift in the US-China relations, opens up immense opportunities for India. Xi-Jinping led China’s authoritarianism at home and assertiveness abroad, has shaken up the establishments in Europe and US. In next 3-5 years, every major MNC will implement the “China plus One” strategy. Indian Corporates, Start-Ups and Professionals must grab this opportunity to create capital investments and job opportunities leading to economic growth. India’s time has come. We must make it happen.
The volatile geopolitics throws up challenges. Let us convert every challenge into an opportunity, the smart way, the inclusive way, the SEEGOS way.