On February 21, 2025, in Delhi, the All India Management Association (AIMA) celebrated its 69th Foundation Day and 19th National Management Day, reflecting on the theme ‘India Tomorrow: Unlocking Industry, Innovation, Talent.’ The Concluding Remarks was delivered by Suneeta Reddy, President of AIMA and Managing Director of Apollo Hospitals Enterprise Limited, who provided a perspective on India’s growth towards global leadership in economic growth, technological advancements, and industrial transformation.
Reddy began her speech by emphasising the need to reflect on India’s past to understand its future. “To truly understand what is possible for India tomorrow, we must reflect on where we have come from.” She highlighted that despite being a relatively young nation at just 77 years post-independence, India has made extraordinary strides in economic and social development.
“At just 74 years old, India achieved the remarkable feat of surpassing the United Kingdom in GDP, becoming the world’s fifth-largest economy,” she noted. She further pointed out that the country is well on its way to becoming the fourth-largest economy, generating admiration—and competition—from global economic powerhouses.
A significant theme of her address was India’s demographic advantage. While other major economies face an aging population crisis, India remains a youthful nation. However, she also posed critical questions: “Will India grow old before it grows rich? Will economic momentum falter as the population ages?”
Despite these concerns, India’s economic outlook remains robust, with a steady growth rate of 5.4% and an ambitious target of 7–8% in the coming decade. “This belief in growth and progress is evident across multiple sectors,” Reddy remarked.
One of the most compelling examples of India’s progress is in civil aviation. Reddy highlighted the phenomenal expansion in the sector, stating, “Between 2021 and today, the number of airports in India has doubled from 74 to 150. By 2047, we aim to have 350 operational airports.” With a 15% growth rate in the industry and a surge in domestic and international travel, India is fast emerging as a key player in global aviation, competing with hubs like Singapore and Dubai.
Tourism, particularly medical value travel, is another sector experiencing exponential growth. Currently, it contributes 5.6% to India’s GDP and employs 36.1 million Indians. “By 2047, we expect these numbers to rise dramatically, with a projected 20% increase in job creation across tourism, aviation, and healthcare,” she projected.
India’s ability to drive innovation while maintaining cost-effectiveness has set it apart on the global stage. The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO), with its frugal approach to space exploration, has achieved remarkable feats. “We made history by landing on the far side of the moon—an achievement no other developing nation had accomplished,” Reddy proudly stated.
She also highlighted groundbreaking innovations like AgniPort, 3D-printed rockets, and the recently announced e-plane with vertical takeoff. “These transformative innovations will redefine travel and connectivity in the years to come,” she affirmed.
In conclusion, Reddy’s speech painted a picture of optimism and ambition for India’s future. She reiterated, “India Tomorrow is not a distant dream—it is unfolding before us.” She stressed that India’s rise is driven by growth, innovation, and an unshakable belief in the nation’s collective potential.
As India continues to unlock its vast capabilities in industry, innovation, and talent, it is well-positioned to lead the global economy, set new benchmarks, and inspire the world. “The journey ahead is promising, and together, we will ensure that India’s rise continues,” Reddy concluded.
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