Prime Minister Narendra Modi has called upon all states to work collaboratively with the Union government, functioning as "Team India," to accelerate the nation's growth trajectory and achieve the ambitious goal of becoming a developed nation by 2047. This call to action was a central theme during the 10th NITI Aayog Governing Council Meeting, where Modi emphasized that a unified approach between the Centre and the states is crucial to realizing the vision of "Viksit Bharat" (Developed India).
Modi stressed the need to increase the speed of development, stating that "if the Centre and all the States come together and work together like Team India, no goal is impossible." He articulated that "Viksit Bharat is the goal of every Indian. When every state is Viksit, then Bharat will be Viksit. This is the aspiration of its 140 crore citizens."
The Prime Minister's vision extends beyond mere economic growth. He emphasized the importance of developing future-ready cities, driven by growth, innovation, and sustainability. He suggested that each state should focus on developing at least one tourist destination that meets global standards, complete with comprehensive facilities and infrastructure, under the "One State: One Global Destination" initiative. This would not only boost tourism but also spur development in neighboring areas.
In addition to infrastructure and tourism, PM Modi highlighted the critical need for increased participation of women in the workforce. He urged states to create laws and policies that respectfully integrate women into the workforce, recognizing their vital role in national development. He also encouraged states to emulate successful initiatives like Bihar's river-linking project to combat water scarcity and floods.
The NITI Aayog meeting served as a platform for states to present region-specific development proposals and address funding gaps. Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister Chandrababu Naidu, for instance, proposed the creation of sub-groups to accelerate progress towards the 2047 goal, focusing on GDP growth, population management, and technology-based governance. Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin stressed the importance of "cooperative federalism" in achieving the vision of a 30 trillion-dollar economy by 2047 and urged the Union government to support all states without discrimination.
Several states have already begun aligning their strategies with the "Viksit Bharat 2047" vision. Maharashtra, for example, aims to become a $5 trillion economy by 2047, with a detailed plan that includes short, medium, and long-term targets. The state is also focused on a green energy transition, with a goal of sourcing 52% of its energy from renewable sources by 2030. NITI Aayog CEO BVR Subrahmanyam noted that 17 states are already prepared with their "Viksit Bharat 2047" vision documents, expressing optimism that India could become the third-largest economy in the world within the next 2-3 years.
Achieving the "Viksit Bharat" vision requires a multi-faceted approach. A World Bank report suggests that India needs to grow by an average of 7.8% annually over the next two decades to reach high-income status by 2047. This entails faster and more inclusive growth across all states, increased investment, higher labor force participation, and accelerated productivity growth. The report also emphasizes the need for reforms in land, labor, and capital markets, as well as investments in human capital, including education and healthcare.
PM Modi's call for states to unite as "Team India" underscores the importance of cooperative federalism in achieving the nation's development goals. By working together, sharing best practices, and leveraging their unique strengths, the states and the Centre can pave the way for a prosperous and developed India by 2047.
