Since independence, India’s progress has been exceptional and notable in many ways. Various stalwarts in their own capacity have striven for the progress and development of our nation. India has witnessed increasing economic growth, improved literacy rate and substantial improvement in various sectors. India is seen among the fastest growing economies in the world over the last couple of years.

However, India as a nation has to still move forward on the path of progress with greater zest to take its rightful place in the world economy. India has been richly blessed with natural and human resources. With the abundance of talent, if we move ahead in the right direction with appropriate strategies, the future of India is very bright, promising and shinning.

Today as we prepare for our 66^th Republic Day on 26^th January 2015, I would like to recall our former President, Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam who in his book, “India 2020” has said, “A developed India by 2020, or even earlier, is not a dream. It need not be a mere vision in the minds of many Indians. It is a mission we can all take up – and succeed.”

As a true visionary, he gave a vision for the new millennium with a plan to develop India into a strong nation. With a comprehensive view, he highlighted five core areas almost a decade ago.  These areas were agriculture and food processing, Infrastructure, education and healthcare, Information and Communication Technology and critical technologies and strategic industries. Indeed, today India needs visionaries with big ideas in all spheres and at all levels.

The republic of India has seen considerable exposure and has the potential to be the superpower in near future. Our country has seen its share of conflict, struggle and setbacks too. Although India still faces many challenges, it is now poised to reach a higher position on the global platform. Over the years, India has taken tremendous strides to fix various issues and has remained steadfast in maintaining the world’s largest diverse democracy which is historically unprecedented.

Today, the new government has a tremendous responsibility upon its shoulders to drive the nation towards advancement through a holistic approach in strategic planning and implementation of various polices. As one nation, we have to think big for India with Big and Innovative Ideas in every sector and be consistent in execution and implementation of the same.

India’s service sector has been largely contributing to the Indian economic progress.  It accounts for around 60 per cent of India’s gross domestic product (GDP) and has grown considerably during the last few years. It does indicate progress; however we need to further focus on education, healthcare, infrastructure building, investment in human resource capital and so forth with greater emphasis on manufacturing, industry and agricultural development.

Appropriate usage of natural resources will accelerate growth and development. India has to create jobs for its young population and expansion in manufacturing will definitely help and in view of this our Prime Minister’s “Make in India” is a very laudable concept.

India has been blessed with the youngest population about 50% below the age of 25 and more than 65% below the age of 35 in the whole world.  Therefore job creation in both manufacturing and service sector is a must for India to rise above the scale. Along with massive job creation the demographic dividend to be productive needs to be in good health and fit for the job and therefore healthcare services are immediate and necessary.

In order to prepare the Indian youth both in urban and rural areas, education is the answer. Every good thing will only result from quality education.  Providing education with technology integration and hands on learning experience will equip our youngsters to be prepared for the industry demands and get employment.

If food and agriculture is given due importance, it will give food security, create employment and contribute to the economic growth. V.G Siddhartha, founder-owner of the chain of Cafe Coffee Day has stated, “India needs to support small entrepreneurs in farm processing and value added retailing to create jobs.” We see that there is a mass exodus of educated youth from the rural seeking employment in the urban areas. This gives rise to housing and other youth related problems in the city putting them at risk.

Reaching out the rural youth with quality education and implementation of development projects at the Tehsil or Taluka level with emphasis on agriculture, agro industry and rural services will retain them and prevent their migration. Technology interventions into farming, making it a profitable sector will attract the youth and will lend to the overall growth of the rural population.

Today, India needs a holistic approach towards progress and development with rapid administrative reforms at all levels.  Greater consensus at the centre, state and district level has to be established.  We need to bring science, technology and moral values to each and every doorstep and work together to establish peace and harmony in the country.

Becoming an International Educational Hub and attracting students and renowned educators from across the globe is a possibility. India has the wealth of talent to develop world class software products which needs to be given crucial importance. Our country needs to recognize the talent in every community and thrive on the resources available with a right perspective and aim to be the front runner in the global arena.

Let us rise up and think Big for a New and a True India where everyone will be free from every negative aspect and will have true freedom to grow, flourish and prosper. Wish you a very Happy Republic Day!

Jai Hind!

Contributed by: Dr. A. F. Pinto

Chairman, Ryan International Group of Institutions