Bharat@2047 is about how we envision our country when we celebrate 100 years of Independence in the year 2047. As we are aware that Bharat recently celebrated its 77th year of Independence and would be entering 100th in 2047. There is a tremendous excitement and enthusiasm across the country about the various possibilities Bharat of 2047 has.
Two years ago, Bharat concluded the Amrit Mahotsav, a celebration of 75 years of independence. This significant milestone has sparked a nationwide debate on the future direction of the country for the next 25-30 years. As Bharat approaches 2047, it is an opportune time to not only reflect on the achievements of the past and inspiring but also envision a powerful, prosperous, and peaceful Bharat for the future. This short book aims to initiate this discussion by presenting views that serve as starting points for scholars to navigate and conduct research in the desired direction. It is crucial not only to engage in this debate but also to find actionable ways to achieve the goals set forth. By involving scholars and experts, we can collectively shape the future of our nation and work towards a brighter tomorrow. In a way this is also Deshbhakti.
Aligning a nation’s policies with the people’s aspirations is vital in ensuring the nation’s growth and development. Bharat exemplifies the significance of this alignment through its unique cultural, social, and economic outlook. Therefore, policy development should always be people centric. We must keep in mind the critical need to align policies with the country’s deep rooted beliefs, values, and philosophies, which have the power to affect the whole country positively. By involving citizens in the policy-making process, we can make a more inclusive approach to the policies that shape our nation.
Government of Bharat, efforts
Prime Minister Narendra Modi during his Independence speech from the Red Fort on the occasion of 75th Independence Day had exhorted citizens to dream of Bharat attaining the coveted status of being a ‘Developed Economy’ by 2047.There have been lot of discussions happening and the government has also started working. The Economic Advisory Council to the Prime Minister has released ‘Competitiveness Roadmap for India@100’ in august 2022. The recommendations outlined in this roadmap factor in Bharat’s unique advantages and are based on a new set of guiding principles, policy goals, and an implementation architecture”. The roadmap is a step in this direction.
Bharat: Guide of the world
Bharat is one of the oldest nations on Earth. Throughout the history, it has had a rich economic past and has been the leader in various aspects of life including both the physical and spiritual realms. As we discuss our futuristic vision leading to year 2047, it is important to recognise that our goals should not be limited to economic achievements alone. Our vision should be comprehensive, encompassing all aspects of society and human well-being. Furthermore, Bharat not only cares for its own people but also sees the world as a global family (Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam). Therefore, our policies up to the year 2047 and onwards should be designed in such a way that it not only brings happiness to our own citizens but also inspires people from around the world. By setting an example of progress, compassion, and inclusivity, we can become a source of inspiration for others.
Our Vision: Inspiration of the world
In order to achieve our vision for Bharat in 2047, we must recognise that nothing can survive alone, not individuals nor nations. Our goals should not only be focused on economic achievements but should also encompass the well-being of the entire world, including all living species and nature itself. We must strive for a harmonious existence, as reflected in the daily prayer from the Sanskrit shloka..
ॐ द्द्यौः शान्तिरन्तरिक्षं शान्तिः, पृथ्वी शान्तिरापः शान्तिरोषधयः शान्तिः।वनस्पतयः शान्तिर्विश्वेदेवाः शान्तिर्ब्रह्म शान्तिः, सर्वं शान्तिः, शान्तिरेव शान्तिः, सा मा शान्तिरेधिः॥ॐ शान्तिः शान्तिः शान्तिः॥”
om dyauh santir antariksagum santih
prthvi santir apah santir osadhayah santih I vanaspatayah santir visve devāh santir brahma santih sarvagum santih santir eva santih sã mã santir edhi |I
om santih santih santih I|
Our vision for Bharat in 2047 should include economic and other significant goals, as well as relations and happiness with the rest of the world. We must also keep in mind the environment and the existence of nature, recognising that the universe has spiritual tendencies and our thought process should align with this understanding.
Bharat’s good achievements in last 75 years
Over the past 75 years, Bharat has made remarkable progress. From a poor, illiterate country with a poverty rate of over 70 per cent and an illiteracy rate of over 72 per cent, we have become the 5th largest economy in the world with a literacy rate of over 90%. Our aspirations are to become the number one economy in the world and we are making strides in various fields, from sports to scientific research, and from geo-politics to space exploration. Our infrastructure, including railways, roads, aviation, sea ports, digital and economic fields, and defence structures, is aspirational, and our people are ready to lead the world.
Bharat has come a long way from being a hungry nation that was unable to feed its people daily. Today, it is a leading agro exporter country, with 40 per cent of the world trade of rice coming from Bharat. Bharat is the world’s largest producer of milk, pulses, spices and codon. It is the second-largest producer of rice, wheat, codon, sugarcane, farmed fish, sheep & goat meat, fruit, vegetables, and tea.
However, as we look towards 2047, our vision should include the elimination of poverty and inequality, the provision of employment and food for all and the eradication of corruption. We must prioritise education, innovation and international cooperation, and strive towards sustainable development and social responsibility. Ultimately, our vision for Bharat in 2047 should be one of progress, prosperity, and unity, where everyone has equal opportunities, and the country plays a leadership role in the world.
To make the vision of Bharat@2047 a reality, we must consider the aspirations of its people.
New economic & development vision is need of the hour
Bharat took a significant step forward in 2020 with the introduction of the New Education Policy (NEP). This policy was the result of extensive discussions and seminars held nationwide over the course of 5 years. Now, it is time to initiate a dialogue among ourselves and work towards making a developed nation in next 25 years, outlining a comprehensive vision for a prosperous and globally influential Bharat. It is important to note that working on a vision document is not a final step but rather serves as a starting point for a nationwide discussion on such a significant topic.
Various Government bodies have already published vision documents for 2047, but it is crucial to remember that the ultimate decision on what the nation wants to be lies with society as a whole. The awareness and consciousness of the people play a pivotal role in shaping the Government policies. Therefore, we are here to kickstart a national debate on the vision for Bharat@2047.
Our demography is our core strength
Every individual and society possess a unique core strength, and for Bharat, it lies in our young demography. With a current population of 37 crore youngsters in the age group of 15-29, we have an unparalleled pool of human potential. If we can ensure that all these young individuals are educated, skilled, and equipped with an entrepreneurial mind-set, they can not only contribute to the multi-fold growth of our nation but also play significant roles in areas such as sports, science & technology, infrastructure development, the military and national security. These areas are essential for the sustained happiness and prosperity of our society.
The key to long-term happiness for any unit, whether it be a family, village, or society, lies in several factors. These include having children, young people, wealth, education, culture, and tradition. The same holds good for a nation as well. Studies, research, and books like ‘Igniting 37 crore growth engines’ by Pradeep S Chauhan and Shivalli M Chouhan, published by Swadeshi Shodh Sansthan indicates a direct relation between young demography and GDP. The younger the nation, the bigger the GDP numbers and vice versa. The decline in GDP numbers of Japan, China, Europe, and even the USA is telling of the negative side of having an aging population. Even if there is infrastructure, R&D, and pro-industry policies, due to the increasing average age their growth rate is declining. Japan’s average age is 49, China & USA is 38, Europe is 42 whereas Bharat’s average age is 29.
It is crucial to recognize that while other nations have their own core strengths such as the United States’ R&D IPR, China’s low-cost manufacturing, the Middle East’s crude oil, Japan’s automobile and electronics industry and Germany’s high-end technology machines. According to a recent report from CII (Chambers of Indian Industry), Bharat has the potential to achieve a 40 trillion-dollar GDP in the next 25-26 years if it can get its entire workforce employed. Bharat’s strength lies in its young demography. By harnessing the potential of our youth, we can drive our nation towards progress and become a world leader.
Think big, think new, think out of box
To make this vision a reality, we must prioritise education, skill development, and fostering an entrepreneurial mindset among our young population. By providing them with the necessary tools and opportunities, we can empower them to contribute to the growth and development of our nation. It is through their collective efforts and aspirations that developed and prosperous Bharat@2047 can become a reality.
Bharat has come a long way since its independence in 1947, transforming from a nation with over 72 per cent of its population living below the poverty line to now being the 5th largest economy in the world, with aspirations to soon become the 3rd largest. However, when considering per capita criteria, we still face the reality of being the poorest among G20 countries. To address this, we must not only be ambitious but also develop bigger plans and generate innovative ideas to increase our per capita income. Bharat has a remarkable history of wealth generation, with a significant contribution of around 33% to the world’s GDP, according to the Prof Angus Maddison report. Looking ahead to 2047, there is a strong possibility that Bharat can become the world’s leading economy, not only in terms of absolute numbers but also on a per capita basis.
Fire on all cylinders
Unlike smaller countries that focuses on a few specific areas to achieve economic prosperity, Bharat must explore all sectors, including manufacturing, the service sector, agriculture, and beyond. We should aim to create world-class infrastructure while decentralizing our economy and tapping into the strengths and requirements of over 200 countries worldwide. Additionally, we should harness the potential of areas such as space, ocean reserves, majestic mountains, and our soft power, ranging from yoga to digital advancements.
It is essential that our pursuit of wealth aligns with ethical principles, ensuring that earning money is done in a manner that is Dharm Anusar (ethical) and that our economy is environmentally friendly. We must reject the notion of earning money at the expense of nature. By adopting this mindset, we can foster sustainable economic growth while preserving our environment. In conclusion, as we envision Bharat@2047, we must strive to become not only a prosperous nation but also a global leader. By focusing on inclusive growth, equal opportunities, and sustainable development, we can create a society where everyone thrives. This vision requires collective effort, with the Government, civil society, and the private sector working together to shape a prosperous and harmonious Bharat.
People’s movement: Bharat@2047
77 years since independence, Bharat has made tremendous progress across the entire spectrum of development, having audaciously undertaken the simultaneous three-fold transition across political, social and economic dimensions that its founding fathers laid down. But our leaders and philosophers, like Swami Vivekananda, Arvind Ghosh, MS Golwalkar, Pt Deen Dayal Upadhyaya and DB Thengadi have always inspired us to think bigger and make Bharat the Vishwaguru to lead the rest of the world by example. Collective thought and shared vision are needed to reach the goal of Bharat@2047 or Vision 2047.
There is a need of awareness among people the role they play in making Bharat a Swavlambi Bharat (self-reliant) and developed country. In the given context, the Swadeshi Shodh Sansthan has initiated Bharat@2047 into a people’s movement. The aim is to raise awareness among the citizens of the country and make civil society organisations key stakeholders in this endeavour.
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