India needs to focus on productivity, manufacturing, and R&D to achieve 'Viksit Bharat' by 2047.

The article argues that India needs to prioritize productivity growth, not just GDP growth, to achieve its 'Viksit Bharat' goal by 2047. It highlights that India's manufacturing sector, characterized by low productivity and reliance on cheap labor, needs significant transformation. The author suggests that India's growth has been largely driven by capital accumulation and labor input, with limited contribution from Total Factor Productivity (TFP). To boost TFP, India must invest in R&D, innovation, and human capital, and address issues like informal labor, low-quality jobs, and weak firm capabilities. The article emphasizes that a focus on high-value manufacturing and services, along with reforms, is crucial for sustainable and inclusive development.

Key Points

  • Achieving 'Viksit Bharat' by 2047 requires a strong focus on productivity growth, not solely GDP growth.
  • India's manufacturing sector needs significant transformation to move beyond low-productivity, labor-intensive models.
  • Total Factor Productivity (TFP) growth has been limited, indicating a need for investment in R&D, innovation, and human capital.
  • Addressing challenges like informal labor, low-quality jobs, and weak firm capabilities is crucial for boosting productivity.
  • The article advocates for a shift towards high-value manufacturing and services, supported by reforms, to ensure sustainable and inclusive development.

Exam Facts

  • India's goal: 'Viksit Bharat' by 2047.
  • Author: Sonalde Desai, Professor of Economics.
  • The article mentions Total Factor Productivity (TFP).
  • It references a study by the Ministry of Finance (2020-21) on productivity.

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All current affairs of 16 May 2026