The economy of an individual – or a nation – ultimately determines the scale of its progress. Building an economy may be straightforward; sustaining it and ensuring continuous, multi-dimensional growth is the real test. Despite numerous hurdles, India has not only passed this test but continues its economic journey with confidence and purpose.
Understanding India’s economic trajectory is crucial – both as a model for nations seeking stability and as a cautionary tale for those whose economies are stagnating or declining.
Indian civilisation is rooted in vasudhaiva kutumbakam – “the world is one family” – and the prayer lokah samastah sukhino bhavantu, a call for universal peace and prosperity. These values profoundly shape India’s economic worldview.
Broadly, economic progress can be driven by two models: a humanity-based economy and a politics-driven economy.
Several so-called developed nations have long chosen the latter, shaping economic relationships through politics, pressure and selective alliances. In doing so, some have sidelined humanitarian considerations, eroding their moral standing and weakening their global partnerships. Not surprisingly, their economic momentum has begun to falter.
India, by contrast, consistently follows a humanity-centred model guided by “Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas.” This philosophy is evident in India’s engagement with the world.
The proof lies in India’s conduct in moments of crisis. Despite its own constraints, India has always been among the first to send humanitarian assistance to countries hit by natural disasters or conflict. Many nations expressed gratitude; a few remained thankless or even hostile. Yet India’s approach never changed.
A striking example is the Indian Navy’s rescue operations. It saved citizens of multiple countries – including those historically hostile to India, and many others with whom India has no political disagreements at all. The principle was simple: humanitarian duty comes first, politics later.
Such actions have deepened India’s global economic relationships. Nations today trade with India not out of compulsion but trust. India’s unwavering humanitarian posture has compelled even sceptical countries to reconsider old prejudices and embrace cooperation based on mutual respect and a win-win approach. This has contributed significantly to India’s surprising and sustained economic rise.
The message is clear: politics-driven economies may gain in the short run, but they cannot build lasting partnerships. Long-term economic growth rests on credibility, trust, and goodwill.
India’s humanity-based economic model is not just ethical – it is strategically sound. It builds durable friendships, enhances global standing and creates conditions for sustained prosperity. As the world undergoes transformational change, India’s example offers a powerful and practical blueprint for nations seeking stable, long-term growth.
