Viksit Bharat Envisions Inclusive Growth Beyond GDP, Says Nirmala Sitharaman

Mangaluru, Apr 29 (BNP): Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman said that India’s Viksit Bharat vision is centered on inclusive development and shared prosperity, moving beyond traditional measures of economic growth such as GDP.

Speaking at an event at NITTE, she stressed that India must view development as an ongoing journey rather than a finished goal. The long-term objective, she said, is to build a developed nation by 2047 through collective effort across all sections of society.

She explained that the vision of Viksit Bharat is fundamentally human in nature, focusing on improving quality of life through access to education, healthcare, meaningful employment, and a clean environment. According to her, true progress is reflected in people’s aspirations and opportunities, not just economic numbers.

Highlighting the changing mindset of India’s youth, especially young women, she noted that aspirations have shifted from basic survival to achieving excellence, global competitiveness, and professional success. This transformation, she said, reflects a confident and ambitious new India.

Sitharaman also emphasized inclusive development, stating that progress must reach farmers, fishermen, and tribal communities. She underlined the importance of equipping them with modern resources, financial security, and market access while preserving their cultural identity and way of life.

She further pointed out that India’s demographic advantage—nearly 900 million people under the age of 35—represents a major opportunity for growth and innovation if properly harnessed.

Calling Viksit Bharat a national mission, she said it requires active participation from the government, private sector, academia, and citizens. While policy provides direction, she added, the real momentum will come from the collective effort of India’s people.

In conclusion, she described Viksit Bharat as a model of development that prioritizes inclusion, dignity, and shared prosperity, ensuring that economic progress benefits every section of society.