Kanpur, Mar 19: Emphasising the importance of setting two major national goals—transforming India into a $5 trillion economy by 2026 and a Viksit Bharat (developed India) by 2047—Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha highlighted the crucial role of rural areas in India’s economic transformation.
Speaking at the Viksit Bharat Samvad ‘EDGE 2025’ event in Kanpur, the Lieutenant Governor addressed a diverse audience, including civil society members, youth, and stakeholders from trade and industry. In his keynote address, he called for collaborative efforts and swift reforms across various sectors to enhance India’s global competitiveness. “Given the current global economic upheaval, trade uncertainties, and geopolitical shifts, India must focus on becoming a global hub for design and manufacturing,” Sinha asserted.
Highlighting the need for inclusive growth, Sinha stated, “I want to see a new partnership between Panchayats and Industry across the country. This is the key to accelerating inclusive development and ensuring that every section of society enjoys the benefits of economic growth.”
He stressed the importance of improving rural infrastructure to match urban centers in healthcare, education, and economic opportunities. “Our villages need to match modern cities in these areas, and this can only be achieved through a robust partnership between Panchayats and Industry,” he added.
Sinha also spoke about India’s demographic advantage, noting that while the world is ageing, India’s young population is rising. He urged business leaders to focus on creating rural enterprises connected to the global market and emphasized the importance of skilling, reskilling, and upskilling youth. “This demographic dividend, combined with the power of IIT – Innovation, Industries, and Technology – will ensure India’s steady economic growth and help us reach the $5 trillion economy target by 2026,” he said.
The Lieutenant Governor further highlighted the need for India to focus on manufacturing critical goods domestically to reduce reliance on external markets. He advocated for long-term strategies in foreign investment and strengthening domestic supply chains to position India as a manufacturing powerhouse by 2029. “We must focus on the production of critical goods while meeting the needs of our aspiring economy,” Sinha said.
In his address, the Lieutenant Governor recognized Kanpur’s historical significance as the “Manchester of the East” for its leather and textile industries. He pointed out that the city is witnessing a complete industrial revival, with major industries in textiles, leather, and defense manufacturing setting up units in the region. “The groundwork for the accelerated industrial development of Kanpur has been laid, and the city will soon reclaim its lost glory,” he assured. Exports from Kanpur have already seen a significant increase, and the city is poised to play a key role in India’s journey toward becoming a Viksit Bharat.
Sinha also commended the Rotary Club of Kanpur Gaurav, Confederation of Indian Industries, and Prout Solicitors LLP for organizing the event. He described the platform as a valuable space for impactful discussions, strategic collaborations, and future-oriented insights that would contribute to India’s overall progress.
