Union Housing and Urban Affairs Minister Hardeep Singh Puri expressed confidence that India would become a world leader in all aspects by 2047, citing the youth dividend as the driving force. Speaking at the National Youth Conclave 2023 in New Delhi on March 13, Puri pointed out that over half of the country’s population is under the age of 25, with an average age of 29. He observed that young people are transforming urban spaces in the country by creating a global template for what they should look like.
The Modi government recognizes the need to capture the demographic dividend and is investing more than Rs. 90,000 crore annually in youth development programs, Puri stated. He also highlighted that India has over 100 unicorns, and the start-up culture is gaining momentum. Puri stressed that the ideas of the youth and the conducive environment that encourages them are the real success.
Puri praised the youth’s contributions and efforts in bringing about changes in the urban landscape, stating that they have begun to “tweak, remodel and create” a global template for urban space in the country. He noted that the youth have the power to reshape India’s future and transform the nation into a global leader.
In addition, Puri spoke about the government’s efforts to create an enabling environment for startups to flourish, citing the introduction of a range of initiatives to support the startup ecosystem. He highlighted the government’s flagship schemes, such as Startup India and Standup India, which aim to foster entrepreneurship among young people.
Puri’s remarks at the National Youth Conclave underscore the Indian government’s commitment to developing and empowering the country’s youth, who are poised to play a critical role in India’s future growth and development. The Modi government is investing heavily in programs and initiatives aimed at preparing young people for the challenges and opportunities of the 21st century.
Overall, Puri’s speech emphasized the importance of investing in India’s youth and creating an environment that encourages innovation and entrepreneurship. By doing so, he believes that India will become a global leader by 2047, with the youth playing a key role in shaping the country’s future.
