New Delhi, June 3, 2025: India is setting its sights high—with a vision to become a $30 trillion economy by 2047. This bold projection was shared by Amitabh Kant, India’s G20 Sherpa and former CEO of NITI Aayog, during an event held alongside the International Air Transport Association (IATA) conference in the capital.
Currently, India’s economy stands at around $4 trillion, already making it one of the largest in the world. But according to Kant, this is just the beginning of a much larger journey. He believes India’s real strength lies in its people—especially its youth.
“India is a young nation,” Kant said. “Our average age is just 28. Even by 2047, it will only rise to around 35. That youth energy is our greatest asset in building the future.”
While many developed nations are grappling with aging populations, India stands apart, with a large and dynamic young workforce poised to power its next phase of growth.
Urban Growth and New Cities on the Horizon
Kant also spoke about the country’s rapid urban transformation. Over the next few decades, he said, nearly 50 million people are expected to move into urban areas. To accommodate this shift, India may need to build around 500 new cities.
He offered a striking comparison: “In the next 50 years, India will need to create the equivalent of two new Americas. That means building a city the size of Chicago every five years.”
This level of urban development will require bold planning, innovation, and sustainable infrastructure to ensure that cities remain livable and inclusive.
A Skyward Ambition in Aviation
Looking to the skies, Kant highlighted India’s ambitions in the aviation sector. The goal? To expand from just over 150 functioning airports today to 400 in the future. With the rapid growth of air travel and a rising middle class, India is positioning itself to become a global aviation hub.
He also underlined the need for Indian airlines to compete on the global stage. “Airlines like IndiGo and Air India must think big—aiming to stand shoulder to shoulder with global giants like Emirates and Qatar Airways,” he said.
A Confident Path Forward
With a young population, strong economic fundamentals, and a bold vision for infrastructure and innovation, India is gearing up for a transformative journey over the next two decades. The path to 2047 may be challenging, but the confidence in the country’s potential has never been stronger.
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