Undercurrents in the Indian Polity: The Challenge of Inclusive Growth

In the past decade, India has emerged as a global economic powerhouse, and has been resilient during the global financial crisis and economic downturn. India is respected for its knowledge base, its democratic underpinnings, and its multiculturalism and plurality. However, India still faces huge challenges in grappling with poverty, population growth and illiteracy. India therefore remains a puzzle to many in the West–a country of vast contradictions but also one that presents tremendous opportunity. The challenge of establishing inclusive growth dominates the policy debate within India, with government and other sectors of society focusing on education, health care, demographics, a rising middle class, food security and private sector growth.

On April 13, the Brookings Institution hosted Tarun Das, former chief mentor to the Confederation of Indian Industry for an address on these issues. In his remarks, Mr. Das talked about developments in India—in particular, the challenge of inclusive growth, a top priority for the current Indian government. The event is part of a new initiative at Brookings that focuses on the interconnected and vital issues facing South Asia today. Martin Indyk, vice president and director of Foreign Policy at Brookings, introduced Mr. Das.

After Mr. Das’s remarks, Senior Fellow Stephen Cohen moderated a question and answer session.