Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha attended the prestigious Viksit Bharat Samvad ‘EDGE 2025’ in Kanpur today, where he called upon civil society members, youth, and industry stakeholders to contribute towards achieving two major national goals—making India a $5 trillion economy by 2026 and realizing the vision of Viksit Bharat by 2047.
In his keynote address, Sinha emphasized the need for rapid reforms and collaborative efforts to enhance the global competitiveness of every economic sector. “Given the global economic upheaval, trade uncertainties, and geopolitical situations, we need to focus on transforming India into a global hub for design and manufacturing,” he stated.
Harnessing Demographic Dividend
The Lieutenant Governor stressed the importance of leveraging India’s demographic dividend. “While the world is ageing, young India is rising. This demographic advantage, combined with innovation, industries, and technology (IIT), will ensure India’s steady economic growth towards achieving the $5 trillion economy target by 2026,” he said.
He further underlined the need to skill, reskill, and upskill the youth to keep pace with technological advancements. “Our next resolution should be to equip our young workforce with cutting-edge skills to take advantage of global opportunities,” Sinha added.
Boosting Domestic Production & Foreign Investment
Addressing the industrial and business community, Sinha stressed reducing dependence on external markets by focusing on the domestic production of critical goods. “To become a manufacturing colossus by 2029, we must have a long-term strategy on foreign investment and develop strong domestic supply chains,” he remarked.
He urged business leaders to focus on creating rural enterprises connected to global markets. “I want to see a new partnership between Panchayats and Industry across the country. This will accelerate inclusive development and create a prosperous society where all sections enjoy the benefits of economic growth,” he said.
Infrastructure & Industrial Growth
Highlighting India’s development journey under Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership, Sinha spoke about the revolutionary changes taking place across various sectors, especially in Jammu and Kashmir.
He also noted Kanpur’s revival, which was once known as the “Manchester of the East” for its leather and textile industry. “The groundwork for Kanpur’s accelerated industrial development has been laid, and soon, the city will reclaim its lost glory,” he asserted.
He pointed out that exports from Kanpur have significantly increased, and the region is attracting major investments in textiles, leather, and defense manufacturing. “This old industrial hub will power the journey of Viksit Bharat,” he remarked.
A Platform for Growth & Collaboration
The Lieutenant Governor commended the collective initiative of the Rotary Club of Kanpur Gaurav, Confederation of Indian Industries, and Prout Solicitors LLP for providing a meaningful platform for impactful discussions and strategic collaborations.
“Events like these help in shaping India’s all-round progress and contribute towards a prosperous and self-reliant nation,” he concluded
