Posted by – Riya T
6.5% GDP Growth: Why It’s Not Enough for Viksit Bharat
India’s ambition to become a “Viksit Bharat” (Developed India) by 2047 hinges on more than steady economic growth–it demands acceleration. NITI Aayog’s CEO BVR Subrahmanyam’s recent remarks make it clear: 6.5% annual GDP growth, while impressive by many standards, will not suffice to meet the nation’s aspirational target of a fully developed economy by its centenary of independence.
The Numbers: Why 6.5% Falls Short
- 2024–25 GDP Growth: India clocked in a real GDP growth rate of 6.5%, the slowest since the pandemic-struck year of 2020–21.
- Target for Developed Status: Subrahmanyam says maintaining an average growth rate of 8% per year is required–not 6.5%–to see India emerge as a developed nation by 2047.
Even though 1.5 percentage points might sound like a negligible difference, the compounding effect over two decades means a massive gap in economic output by 2047. It could determine whether India stands shoulder-to-shoulder with global economic powerhouses or lags behind.
The Stakes: What “Viksit Bharat” Means
- Economic Size: At 8% growth, India’s GDP would multiply at a much faster rate, boosting per-capita income and enabling superior investments in health, education, infrastructure, and innovation.
- Global Role: Achieving these higher growth rates is what will cement India’s place as the world’s third-largest economy, surpassing Germany in coming years, and eventually rivaling the economic footprint of the US and China.
- Social Impact: Rapid GDP growth brings with it job creation, poverty reduction, and a stronger, more resilient middle class.
Risks and Realities: Global Uncertainty and Domestic Reform
Subrahmanyam’s warning is timely. The global economy faces turbulence: new tariffs from the US, shifting trade protocols, and geopolitical tensions can all slow momentum. Domestically, sustaining higher growth will require:
- Revamping investments: Raising the investment-to-GDP ratio from today’s levels.
- Strengthening data and decision-making: Transitioning to evidence-based policymaking, as highlighted at the recent Ministry of Statistics meeting.
- Driving productivity: From agripreneurship and technology in agriculture to world-class manufacturing, India must move faster and smarter.
The Way Forward: Strategic Imperatives
- Bold Policy Action: Implement reforms that boost investor confidence, ease regulatory bottlenecks, and encourage entrepreneurship.
- Data-Driven Governance: Build capacity at every level of government for statistics, analysis, and results-oriented policymaking.
- Inclusivity and Innovation: Growth must be broad-based, sustainable, and constantly adapting to disruptions.
Key Takeaway
Growth is not just about numbers–it’s about vision, execution, and resilience. As Subrahmanyam asserts, “if you grow at 6.5%, you will not be Viksit Bharat; (if) you grow at 8%, you will be Viksit Bharat.” The next two decades will be decided by India’s ability to break out of its comfort zone, make tough choices, and embrace the future with bold ambition.
What are the ideas that we can work on to accelerate the growth and achieve sustainable level. What role can the industry play? How can the government support? Please do leave your comments below-
Source: The Indian Express, August 2025
