Opinion | India’s Efforts for a Developed Nation from a Developing Nation

If there is one thing I have learned from my country, it is this: resilience is in our DNA. From the struggle for independence to the fight against poverty, India has always risen to the occasion. And as we strive to become a developed nation, I do not doubt that we will do so again.
When I think of India, my heart swells with pride. This is not just a country I read about or visit; this is my home. It is a land where the past and the future co-exist in a delicate dance—a place where ancient traditions meet modern ambitions. As an Indian, I have witnessed firsthand the incredible strides my country has made, yet I am acutely aware of the challenges that remain. India’s journey from a developing nation to a developed one is not just a story of policies and numbers; it is a story of people, resilience, and hope. I remember growing up in Kashmir, where life was a mix of simplicity and aspiration. The streets were bustling, the markets vibrant, and the sense of community strong. But some moments reminded me of the gaps we needed to bridge—the potholed roads, the power cuts, the long queues at government offices. Yet, even then, there was an unshakable belief that things would get better. And they have.
India’s economic transformation has been nothing short of extraordinary. From being a country that once relied heavily on imports, we have become a nation that produces and exports on a global scale. The reforms of the 1990s, which opened our economy, were a turning point. I remember my father talking about how difficult it was to access certain goods before liberalization, and how everything changed afterward. Today, initiatives like “Make in India” and “Digital India” are not just slogans; they are reflections of a nation determined to carve its place in the world. recall speaking to a young entrepreneur in New Delhi who told me, “India is no longer just a back-office for the world. We are creating our own Silicon Valley here.” His words stayed with me, a testament to the confidence and ambition of India’s youth. Since 2014, the Modi government has played a pivotal role in accelerating India’s journey toward becoming a developed nation. Initiatives like the Goods and Services Tax (GST) have streamlined the tax system, created a unified market, and boosted economic efficiency. The push for infrastructure development, from highways to smart cities, has transformed the physical landscape of the country, making it more connected and accessible. Programs like “Digital India” have brought technology to the fingertips of millions, bridging the digital divide and empowering citizens in unprecedented ways. The Swachh Bharat Mission, one of the government’s flagship campaigns, has not only improved sanitation but also instilled a sense of civic responsibility among Indians. Moreover, the focus on renewable energy, exemplified by the International Solar Alliance, has positioned India as a global leader in sustainable development. While challenges remain, these efforts have undeniably laid a strong foundation for India’s aspirations to rise as a developed nation.
But development is not just about economic growth; it is about improving the quality of life for every citizen. This is where initiatives like the Swachh Bharat Mission and the Ayushman Bharat scheme come into play. I remember participating in a cleanliness drive in my neighbourhood a few years ago. It was a small effort, but it felt significant. It was a reminder that change begins at the grassroots level and that every citizen has a role to play in shaping the nation’s future. Education and healthcare remain critical areas of focus. As someone who has benefited from India’s education system, I know its strengths and its flaws. While we have world-class institutions like the IITs and IIMs, we also have schools in rural areas where children struggle to access basic resources. The Right to Education Act was a step in the right direction, but there is still much to be done. Similarly, the Ayushman Bharat scheme has brought healthcare within reach for millions, but the quality and accessibility of services need improvement. I once met a nurse in a government hospital who told me, “We have the will to serve, but we need more resources.” Her words stayed with me, a reminder that progress must be inclusive. Technology, however, is where India truly shines. From launching satellites to developing world-class IT services, we have proven our mettle on the global stage. The success of startups like Flipkart, Zomato, and Paytm is a testament to the entrepreneurial spirit that thrives in our country. I remember the first time I used UPI for a payment—it was seamless, efficient, and so uniquely Indian. It is innovations like these that make me proud to be part of a nation that embraces change and leads the way.
Yet, the road to becoming a developed nation is not without its challenges. Income inequality, environmental degradation, and political polarization are issues that demand urgent attention. I often think about the farmers in Punjab and Maharashtra, who work tirelessly to feed the nation but struggle with debt and water scarcity. Their plight is a stark reminder that development must be sustainable and equitable. As an Indian, I feel a deep sense of responsibility to contribute to solutions, whether through small acts of kindness or by advocating for systemic change.
India’s geopolitical rise is another source of pride. From playing a key role in global forums like the G20 to leading initiatives like the International Solar Alliance, we are carving out a space for ourselves on the world stage. I remember watching Prime Minister Narendra Modi address the United Nations, speaking about India’s commitment to peace and sustainability. It was a moment of pride, not just for me but for every Indian who believes in the power of our nation to lead by example. As I reflect on India’s journey, I am filled with both hope and determination. Hope, because I see a nation that is unstoppable in its pursuit of progress. Determination, because I know that the development path is long and requires the collective effort of every citizen. But if there is one thing I have learned from my country, it is this: resilience is in our DNA. From the struggle for independence to the fight against poverty, India has always risen to the occasion. And as we strive to become a developed nation, I do not doubt that we will do so again. In the end, India’s story is not just about policies or economic indicators. It is about people—the farmer in the field, the entrepreneur in the city, the teacher in the village. It is about their dreams, their struggles, and their unwavering belief in a better tomorrow. And as an Indian, I am proud to be part of this story. Together, we are writing a new chapter—one that future generations will look back on with pride.
The Writer is a student activist and can be reached at soulofkashmir1@gmail.com