The Future of India @ 78

In the year of the 78th dawn of India's freedom, as the wheel of time turns toward 2047, the seer beholds a land of both splendor and trials. Hearken to the visions that unfold:

1. Poverty and Per Capita

The shadows of poverty, though still present, will retreat somewhat before the tide of progress. The per capita wealth shall swell, yet not uniformly; disparities shall remain, weaving a bridgeable  gulf between both rich and frayed.

2. Religious Diversity

The vibrant mosaic of India’s faiths shall endure. Hinduism, a river of ancient currents, shall see strands of extremism seeking to disrupt its flow. Yet, the spirit of moderation and tolerance, tempered by the wisdom of its sages, shall hold firm. Minority will find more tolerant voices in it fold and their leadership will shun reservation though a wee bit slow. 

3. Prosperity by Community and State

In the dance of fortune, the affluent will rise prominently from the western and southern realms. Among the states, those that embrace innovation and inclusivity shall flourish, with Maharashtra, Uttar Pradesh and  Karnataka shining as beacons of prosperity. A southern state will be split or carved out on ideological boundaries. States will fight states for resources, tax, revenues and water, labour migration and some kind of dual citizenship for migrants settlers and labourers will be the norm. A woman from south of Vindhyas will rule india or maybe the world. 

4. Student Protests

Neotoddlerism will infect the students. Social media, Smartphones and Internet AI will make them easy fodder for quick fame and attention deficit disorder and drugs will force them to be used in manners inimical to them and state by foreign and ANEs. The young voices of dissent shall not be silenced. They will echo through the corridors of power, seeking reforms and justice. These protests will shape the dialogue of the land, stirring winds of change and challenge.

5. Foreign Intrigues and Unity

The specter of foreign intrigue and interference may seek to unsettle the unity of India. Yet, the strength of its people and the vigilance of its guardians will act as bulwarks against fragmentation.

6. Relations with Neighbors

India’s quest for amicable relations with its neighbors shall be met with mixed fates. There will be moments of rapprochement and contention, a reflection of the ever-shifting tides of diplomacy. We may have more boots on ground in East than ever before. A Kargil 2 May just happen again in East. 

7. Role of the Judiciary

Judicial Imterference in matters of Legislature will  rise. The judiciary shall stand as a sentinel of justice, wielding the gavel with both caution and resolve. Its role will be pivotal in navigating the intricate balance between law and liberty.

8. Federalism and Central Control

Federalism will gain strength, as states seek greater autonomy in the symphony of governance. The central authority shall face pressures, its dominion evolving as the states assert their roles. A EU type structure is on the card. 

9. Legacy of Gandhi and Vivekananda

The legacies of Mahatma Gandhi and Swami Vivekananda shall remain luminous, their teachings resonating in the collective consciousness. Their ideals of peace and spiritual wisdom shall continue to inspire the soul of India. ISKCON will be the new fashion of Indians. Krishna will be the more acceptable way of life. Religion as we know will vanish slowly. 

10. Food and Culture

The digestive tract will change. Red meat will begin to vain. Vegitarianism will be faishonable. Marriages and children will decline. Smartphone screens will be in air itself with projection of display space on wrist watches. A virtual TV cum computer Air Display Window. 

11. Mutation and Evolution

As we move towards a new birth of an evolved specie, both Homo sapiens and animals will evolve. The emotional centre of humans will evolve in awareness. Only then will he be able to take more considered sections as against the AI logic. He will stay ahead in the race for supremacy. Animals will be more social and Cooperative with each other and man. 

Thus, the tapestry of India's future is woven with threads both bright and somber, a testament to its enduring spirit and evolving destiny.

Some facts and figures 

As of August 15, 2024, India has made significant progress in various fields since its independence on August 15, 1947. Here's a snapshot of India's standing in the world:

*Economy*

- 5th largest economy in the world (nominal GDP)

- 3rd largest economy in the world (PPP)

- GDP growth rate: 6.5% (2023-24)

*Global Rankings*

- Global Innovation Index: 35th (2023)

- Human Development Index: 127th (2023)

- Global Peace Index: 129th (2023)

- World Happiness Report: 123rd (2023)

*Technology and Innovation*

- 3rd largest startup ecosystem in the world

- Home to 107 unicorns (startups valued over $1 billion)

- Significant advancements in space technology, IT, and biotechnology

*Demographics and Education*

- Population: 1.42 billion (2024)

- Literacy rate: 77.7% (2023)

- Higher education enrollment: 39.8% (2023)

*Challenges*

- Poverty: 15.5% of the population lives below the poverty line (2023)

- Infrastructure: Ongoing improvements in roads, railways, and public services

- Environmental concerns: Addressing pollution, climate change, and conservation of natural resources

*International Relations*

- Member of the G20, BRICS, and the Shanghai Cooperation Organization

- Strengthening ties with neighboring countries and global powers

Overall, India has made significant progress since independence, but there are still challenges to address to ensure sustainable and inclusive growth.

- Ashutosh Tewari