Economic Might: The Foundation of India's Global Influence

Economist Rajiv Kumar emphasizes that a strong economy is essential for India to enhance its global standing. He advocates for increased share in global trade, strength in the private sector, and strategic autonomy. Citing China's example, he underscores economic power's role in geopolitics.

Economist and former NITI Aayog vice-chairman Rajiv Kumar has highlighted the crucial role of economic strength in shaping a nation’s foreign policy. Speaking at Gandhinagar's Rashtriya Raksha University, he stressed that India's global standing hinges on its economic growth and larger share in international trade.

Pointing to China as a model, Kumar noted its rise as a global power due to economic advancements. He urged India to bolster its share in global merchandise trade, currently stagnating below 2% for decades, to achieve a significant voice on the world stage. His message was clear: economic weakness undermines global influence.

Kumar also advocated for India's strategic autonomy, emphasizing resilience seen during post-nuclear test sanctions. He called for empowerment of the private sector as a growth engine, while advising caution and strength in international relations, particularly with economic giants like China and the US.