Authors:-

1. Diksha Kashyap
2. Rohit Ratnoo
3. Anu Rajesh

Abstract:

Viksit Bharat is more than just a vision, it’s a collective dream of seeing India emerge as a fully developed, inclusive, and self-reliant nation by 2047. It focuses on building a future where every citizen, whether a farmer, a young student, a woman, or someone from a marginalized community, has a real shot at growth and opportunity. This journey touches every corner of society, from better education and healthcare to smarter infrastructure, stronger national security, and cleaner energy.

A big part of this transformation depends on how we reimagine higher education. By making learning more practical, digital, inclusive, and in tune with today’s world, we can prepare a generation that’s not just job-ready, but future-ready. Strengthening research, encouraging innovation, and building bridges between universities, industries, and government will be key. Through collaboration, creativity, and commitment, Viksit Bharat invites us all to be part of shaping a brighter, more equal India for the generations to come.

1. Objectives –

Viksit Bharat lays out a comprehensive roadmap aimed at transforming India into a fully developed nation by 2047, marking the country’s 100th year of independence. The vision emphasizes inclusive growth, aiming for every citizen to benefit from national progress. A major economic milestone is to grow India’s GDP to $30 trillion within two decades. The strategy focuses on strengthening foundational infrastructure, improving welfare systems, promoting environmentally sustainable practices, and creating a favorable environment for both citizens and businesses.

1.2. Core Focus Areas:

• Ending Poverty: Through food security programs covering 800 million individuals, increased access to banking via the Jan Dhan Yojana, and housing schemes for rural communities, efforts are being made to support underprivileged populations.
• Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare: Programs like PM-KISAN and crop insurance initiatives offer financial relief and stability to farmers. Sustainable agriculture is being promoted through Soil Health Cards and eco-conscious initiatives like PM-PRANAM.
• Women Empowerment: With legislative representation for women (33% reservation), financial inclusion schemes, and entrepreneurship support through PM Mudra Yojana, gender equity is being prioritized.
• Education Reform: The National Education Policy (NEP) has redefined the Indian education system. Projects like PM SHRI schools and Atal Tinkering Labs aim to build critical thinking, while Skill India Mission equips students with job-ready skills. International collaboration in higher education is also being promoted.
• Middle-Class Support: Schemes like PM Awas Yojana (housing), Swachh Bharat (sanitation), and Rozgar Mela (employment) cater to the aspirations and needs of the growing middle class.
• Healthcare Access: Government health initiatives like PM-Ayushman Bharat and Digital Health Mission are making healthcare accessible and affordable. Telemedicine platforms such as e-Sanjeevani OPD and low-cost medication schemes are also contributing to better outcomes.
• Security and Defense: National security measures include modernization through light combat helicopters, the Agnipath recruitment scheme, and development efforts in strategically important regions like Jammu & Kashmir and Ladakh.
• Economic Transformation: Tax reforms (GST), digital finance tools (Aadhaar-DBT, UPI), and export growth illustrate India’s economic evolution. Support for MSMEs through initiatives like Startup India and PM MUDRA continues to drive innovation and employment.
• Business Environment: Compliance burdens have been drastically reduced, corporate laws modernized, and the Production Linked Incentive (PLI) scheme has encouraged industrial investment. The National Single Window System helps streamline permissions for businesses.
• Infrastructure Development: Projects such as Gati Shakti, Vande Bharat trains, and the UDAN scheme are enhancing connectivity and transport efficiency across India.
• Technology and Innovation: India’s strides in space (Chandrayaan-3, Aditya-L1), semiconductors (Semicon India), and digital governance (UMANG, Kisan Rath) are fueling technological progress.
• Environmental Sustainability: Clean energy leadership is visible through solar expansion, the Global Biofuel Alliance, and PM-KUSUM, which promotes solar use in agriculture.  

1.3. VISIONARY FOUNDATION

Viksit Bharat is built upon four key pillars that represent India’s social fabric:

• Youth (Yuva): Empowering the next generation with education and skills.
• Poor (Garib): Ensuring economic inclusion and poverty alleviation.
• Women (Mahila): Advancing gender equality and participation.
• Farmers (Kisan): Supporting the agricultural community for sustainable growth.

These pillars support four national objectives:

• Economic expansion and productivity.
• Technological advancement and infrastructure modernization.
• Environmental protection and sustainable development.
• Equity and inclusivity in social growth.

2. HISTORICAL CONTEXT

2.1. Before Independence – British-era reforms laid early institutional frameworks. Acts like the Charter Acts (1813, 1833), the Indian Penal Code (1860), the formation of Indian Railways (1854), and creation of the Reserve Bank (1934) established legal, educational, and financial systems.

2.2. After Independence – India adopted transformative policies—from the Five-Year Plans, Green Revolution, and economic liberalization of 1991 to recent initiatives like Make in India, Digital India, NEP 2020, and Atmanirbhar Bharat. These measures have steered India towards self-reliance and global competitiveness.

3. Fostering a Research Ecosystem for Viksit Bharat

India, with its vast intellectual potential and demographic advantage, aspires to become a developed nation—Viksit Bharat. To achieve this vision, fostering a robust research ecosystem is imperative. A nation’s progress is deeply intertwined with its scientific advancements, technological innovations, and evidence-based policymaking. India must focus on strengthening its research and development (R&D) landscape to drive sustainable growth, global competitiveness, and socio-economic transformation.

3.1. The Role of Research in Nation-Building

Research serves as the backbone of a knowledge-driven economy. It plays a pivotal role in addressing national challenges such as healthcare, energy security, climate change, and industrial development. Countries that invest in R&D not only achieve higher economic growth but also improve the quality of life of their citizens. For India, a well-integrated research ecosystem can lead to:

• Innovation-Driven Growth: Encouraging startups and industries to develop cutting-edge technologies.
• Evidence-Based Policymaking: Enabling data-driven governance to create effective policies.
• Skill Development: Enhancing the quality of education and producing a highly skilled workforce.
• Sustainability: Developing solutions for environmental conservation and renewable energy.

3.2. Key Challenges in India’s Research Ecosystem

Despite significant progress, India faces multiple challenges in its research ecosystem:

• Limited Funding for R&D: India’s Gross Domestic Expenditure on Research and Development (GERD) is relatively low compared to developed nations. As of 2020, India’s R&D expenditure was approximately 0.65% of its GDP. In comparison, countries like China and the United States invest significantly more in R&D, with expenditures of 2.4% and 3.5% of their GDPs, respectively.
• Brain Drain: Many talented researchers migrate abroad due to better opportunities and infrastructure.
• Lack of Industry-Academia Collaboration: Weak linkages between universities and industries hinder the commercialization of research.
• Bureaucratic Hurdles: Complex regulations and delays in research approvals slow down innovation.
• Limited Focus on Interdisciplinary Research: Addressing real-world problems requires collaboration across disciplines, which is often lacking.

3.3. Strategies to Strengthen India’s Research Ecosystem

To build a thriving research ecosystem for Viksit Bharat, India must implement strategic interventions:

3.3.1. Increased Investment in R&D

• The government should allocate a higher percentage of GDP to research funding.
• India’s GDP for the fiscal year 2024-25 is estimated to be ₹324.11 lakh crore (approximately $3.94 trillion). Applying the 0.65% R&D expenditure rate to this GDP figure suggests that India allocates around ₹2.11 lakh crore (approximately $25.6 billion) to research and development annually.
• Incentivizing private sector investments in R&D through tax benefits and grants can boost innovation.
• Establishing national and international collaborations can enhance research capabilities.

3.3.2. Industry-Academia Partnership

• Encouraging joint research projects between universities and industries will drive applied research.
• Setting up research parks and incubation centers can facilitate knowledge transfer.
• Providing funding for start-ups emerging from university research can lead to commercialization of innovations.

3.3.3. Policy Reforms and Ease of Doing Research

• Streamlining approval processes for research projects and reducing bureaucratic red tape.
• Creating a single-window system for researchers to access grants, patents, and collaboration opportunities.
• Ensuring transparency and accountability in research funding.

3.3.4. Strengthening Research Infrastructure

• Establishing world-class laboratories, technology hubs, and digital research platforms.
• Encouraging Open Access policies to make research findings widely available.
• Expanding fellowship programs to support young researchers and postdoctoral scholars.

3.3.5. Fostering a Culture of Innovation and Interdisciplinary Research

• Integrating research-driven education from early stages in schools and universities.
• Promoting problem-solving and critical thinking skills through experiential learning.
• Encouraging collaboration between STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics) and social sciences to address societal challenges.

4. Vision of Viksit Bharat: The Role of Higher Education

Viksit Bharat envisions a developed India by 2047, marking the centenary of the country’s existence as an independent nation. This goal aims to project various aspects of development across economic, environmental, social, political, geopolitical, educational and technological domains among others. Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi will launch ‘Viksit Bharat @2047: Voice of Youth’ on 11th December, 2023 at 10:30 AM via video conferencing. In the words of PM Modi, I quote, “History gives every country a period when it advances its development journey manifold. In a way, this is the golden age (Amritkaal) of that country. This is the golden age (Amritkaal) for India. This is the period in India’s history when the country is going to take a quantum leap. There are examples of many such countries around us, which have developed themselves by taking a similar quantum leap in a given time. That is why I say; this is the right time for India as well. We have to take advantage of every moment of this golden age; we should not waste even a single moment”.

4.1. How Higher Education fits into India’s roadmap for national development

For India, striving towards the ambitious vision of Viksit Bharat @2047- a nation marked by prosperity and advancement- requires a rigorous evaluation and overhaul of its higher education policies (Mahida, 2024). Since the country got independent, its higher education has undergone substantial development. The Education Policy of 1968 marked a pivotal moment with its emphasis on equity and accessibility, although challenges in ensuring relevance and quality persisted (Kumar, 2016; Pandit,2018). The youth of a country acts as a linchpin of progress and development in any society and country. If the youth is educated, who has the ability and skill to make right decisions and propel the energy and mindset in the correct direction, utilising the present resources without compromising the needs of the future generations, – acting sustainably, – then development is surely to come.

A new Higher Education environment that is inclusive, competitive on a global scale, and sensitive to the shifting demands of economy and society is what Vision 2047 aims to achieve. It highlights the value of top-notch education that gives pupils the abilities and information they need to thrive in the 21^st century.

4.1.1. Transforming Curriculum and Pedagogy for Future Skills

Transforming the curriculum is the need of the/for the hour for/in India that addresses real world issues. Also the pedagogy or the methos of teaching adopted by the teaching faculty no more represents the current trends or seems to be outdated. Now, the Indian Higher Education Institutions are including specialised degrees and in courses that emphasise digital integration and abilities in areas like public policy, urban planning, automation, cyber security, filmmaking, fashion designing, entrepreneurship, design thinking, advertising, banking and finance, freelancing, affiliate marketing, etc. to expand their knowledge and advance their jobs.

Proposed reforms emphasise the integration of interdisciplinary approaches, practical skills training, and updated content reflecting emerging technologies and global trends. These reforms aim to produce graduates equipped with the skills and competencies demanded by today’s dynamic job market by bridging the gap between academia and industry.

Proposed reforms also advocate for robust faculty development programs encompassing continuous training in pedagogical methods research methodologies, and advancements in their respective fields. Incentivising research and innovation through grants, fellowships, and awards can also stimulate academic excellence.

4.1.2. Digital Transformation

A crucial component of Indian Higher Education is incorporating technology to enhance instruction and learning quality. Through this integration, students may work with classmates and faculty members from anywhere in the world and access educational materials. This sector ripe with opportunity including personality instruction and easier access.

Leveraging digital technologies to democratise access to higher education is a critical aspect of proposed reforms. Initiatives include the expansion of digital learning platforms, development of Massive Open Online Courses (MOOCs), and establishment of virtual labs to enhance educational outreach and inclusivity, particularly in undeserved regions and marginalised communities.

Over the past several years, the Indian Higher Education system has seen a considerable increase in online courses. Students are increasingly gravitating toward online resources to expand their skill sets and take advantage of more promising job opportunities. Technology has made online education more participatory and interesting, providing a greater choice of courses and degree programs.

The absence of in-person interactions between teachers and students is an issue. Even while discussion boards and video conferencing are common communication tools offered by online platforms, it can be challenging to duplicate the same degree of interaction and one-on-one connection in a traditional classroom. Moreover, there are two sides to the flexibility of online education.

4.1.3. Equity, Inclusion and Accessibility in Higher Education

 Developing an educational system that is accessible to everyone and serves every student individually, regardless of age, gender, passion, interests, strengths or weaknesses, is an element mentioned in the Policy Vision of NEP 2020.

The Gross Enrolment Ratio (GER) is a common metric for evaluating the educational accessibility of a nation. Then write how to calculate and mention India’s position and ways to achieve it higher/more.

Expanding access to higher education through scholarships, digital learning platforms, and outreach programs can bridge the urban-rural divide and empower marginalised community.

Integrating digital technologies can improve the affordability and accessibility of education, particularly in rural regions with limited access to traditional educational infrastructure. This vision aims to close the gap between urban and rural regions, expand access to high-quality education, and improve students’ overall learning experiences using digital technology. Digital solutions allow the establishment of a more customised and inclusive learning environment.

4.1.4. Research and Innovative Ecosystem

The focus on innovation and research has given students additional opportunities to work on cutting-edge initiatives and advance their professions.

Enhancing India’s Research and Innovation ecosystem is another cornerstone of proposed reforms. This includes fostering collaborative partnerships between academia, industry, and government to address pressing societal challenges and promote technological advancements (MHRD, 2021). Increased funding for research projects, establishment of research clusters, and creation of conducive environments for innovation are proposed strategies to propel India towards becoming a global knowledge hub.  

4.1.5.

• Quality Assurance and Accreditation in Indian Universities

By 2047, as India envisions a “Viksit Bharat” (Developed India), quality assurance and accreditation in universities will undergo transformative shifts to align with global standards and emerging educational demands. The landscape will be defined by a unified National Accreditation Framework, led by advanced bodies like the National Board of Accreditation (NBA) and NAAC, emphasizing outcome-based evaluation focused on employability, research, and student success rather than just input factors.

Technology will play a crucial role, with AI-driven analytics assessing academic performance, teaching quality, and student outcomes. Blockchain technology will ensure the transparency and authenticity of academic records, while real-time monitoring tools will track facilities and resources, providing continuous feedback.

Accreditation will evolve beyond technical aspects to focus on holistic education, assessing institutions on their ability to foster soft skills, emotional intelligence, and innovation. Research collaborations and interdisciplinary efforts will be integral, driving solutions for societal challenges. The emphasis on skill development and industry linkages will make universities more responsive to the job market, with continuous learning pathways available through modular, flexible programs.

India will also see a rise in global collaborations, with universities gaining international accreditations, ensuring global recognition. Inclusivity and accessibility will be core, ensuring equal opportunities for all students, including marginalized groups. Sustainability will become a key metric, with universities being assessed on their environmental practices, aligning with the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

4.1.6. Public-Private Partnership (PPP) in Higher Education in India

Public-Private Partnerships (PPP) in India’s higher education system have emerged as an innovative solution to the challenges of infrastructure deficits, quality improvement, and accessibility. The PPP model in education involves collaboration between government bodies and private entities, such as private universities, corporations, or non-profit organizations, to combine the strengths of both sectors for mutual benefits and societal growth.

Key Areas of PPP in Higher Education:

• Infrastructure Development: The rapid expansion of higher education in India has led to increased demand for modern infrastructure, which public institutions often struggle to meet due to limited funding. Through PPPs, private companies invest in the construction, maintenance, and management of university campuses, research centers, and student facilities like hostels and libraries. This partnership ensures that government institutions can focus on academic quality while private entities manage infrastructure development and operational costs.
• Quality Improvement: Private sector involvement enhances the quality of education by introducing industry-driven curricula and best practices. Private partners bring specialized expertise to design industry-relevant programs that meet global standards. This ensures that students are equipped with skills demanded by the job market. Furthermore, private investment in faculty development programs, advanced teaching tools, and technological infrastructure can lead to improved teaching outcomes.
• Research and Innovation: PPPs play a crucial role in fostering research and innovation. Private companies often invest in research initiatives, providing funding and real-world problems for universities to solve. In return, universities contribute valuable intellectual property, which can be commercialized for mutual benefit. Collaborations in technology transfer, innovation hubs, and start-up incubators are examples of how PPPs drive cutting-edge research and foster an entrepreneurial culture in universities.
• Skill Development and Employability: The government and private sector collaboration can ensure that higher education institutions focus on skills-based learning. Private companies often provide internships, vocational training, and job placement opportunities for students, bridging the gap between academic education and industry demands. This not only enhances employability but also ensures that students gain practical experience alongside theoretical knowledge.
• Access and Affordability: PPPs can make higher education more accessible to underprivileged sections of society. Private players may provide scholarships, loan programs, or fee reductions, enabling students from economically weaker backgrounds to pursue higher education. Additionally, private institutions may collaborate with the government to offer more affordable, high-quality education.

Despite the potential benefits, PPPs in higher education face challenges such as ensuring equitable access, quality control, and maintaining a balance between profit-driven motives of the private sector and public welfare. There is a need for strong regulatory frameworks to ensure transparency and accountability in these partnerships. However, with proper oversight, PPPs hold tremendous potential to improve India’s higher education system by fostering innovation, enhancing infrastructure, and making education more accessible and industry-relevant.

4.1.7. Sustainable Development Goals in Higher Education in India

The Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), established by the United Nations in 2015, are a set of global objectives aimed at addressing global challenges like poverty, inequality, climate change, and environmental degradation by 2030. In India, higher education institutions (HEIs) have an important role to play in promoting and achieving these SDGs, contributing not only through academic programs but also through research, community engagement, and campus operations.

• Quality Education (SDG 4)

The foundation of higher education in India lies in SDG 4, which aims for inclusive and equitable quality education for all. Indian universities and colleges must work to improve teaching quality, reduce dropout rates, and expand access to education for marginalized communities, including rural, economically disadvantaged, and differently-abled students. Integrating sustainable development principles into the curriculum and promoting skill development programs aligned with market needs also help achieve this goal.

• Gender Equality (SDG 5)

Gender equality is crucial for India’s sustainable development. Higher education institutions must foster environments that support gender-inclusive education by encouraging female participation in all fields of study, particularly in traditionally male-dominated areas like STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics). Policies that address gender-based violence, harassment, and discrimination on campuses, alongside efforts to close the gender gap in higher education enrollment, can drive progress toward SDG 5.

• Decent Work and Economic Growth (SDG 8)

Higher education institutions contribute to economic growth and employment by equipping students with relevant skills and knowledge for the workforce. Universities and colleges must focus on entrepreneurship, industry-academia partnerships, and internship programs, which enhance students’ employability. Additionally, offering training and development programs that align with market demand ensures that graduates are prepared for the evolving job market, particularly in sustainable industries.

• Research, Innovation, and Industry-Academic Partnerships (SDG 9)

India’s higher education institutions contribute to SDG 9 by fostering innovation, promoting sustainable industrialization, and developing resilient infrastructure. Universities act as hubs for research and development in areas like renewable energy, environmental protection, and sustainable agriculture, aligning with the global goals for economic and environmental sustainability. Industry-academia collaborations are key to translating academic research into practical solutions that address societal challenges and support green technologies.

• Climate Action (SDG 13)

Indian universities play a very important role in addressing climate change which can be achieved through promoting sustainability in campus operations (e.g., reducing carbon footprints, adopting green energy), conducting research on climate resilience, and offering environmental education. Integrating sustainability into the curriculum, such as offering programs on renewable energy, climate adaptation, and sustainable agriculture, helps raise awareness and fosters action among students and faculty.

• Partnerships for the Goals (SDG 17)

Collaboration is key to achieving the SDGs. Higher education institutions in India must foster partnerships with government bodies, industries, international organizations, and other academic institutions. By engaging in collaborative research, knowledge sharing, and student exchange programs, universities can drive innovation and address global challenges collectively.

4.1.8. Infrastructure Development in Higher Education

By 2047, in a Viksit Bharat (Developed India), infrastructure development in higher education will undergo a significant transformation to meet the evolving needs of students, faculty, and the nation. The focus will be on creating state-of-the-art, sustainable, and inclusive campuses that foster innovation, learning, and social responsibility.

Smart campuses will integrate cutting-edge technologies such as AI, IoT, and sustainable energy systems, enabling real-time monitoring of resources, energy efficiency, and campus operations. Green buildings will dominate, using renewable energy, water conservation systems, and eco-friendly materials to minimize environmental impact, aligning with global sustainability goals.

The traditional classroom model will evolve into hybrid learning environments, with virtual and augmented reality, online learning hubs, and collaborative spaces to ensure flexible, accessible education. Specialized research facilities in fields like AI, biotechnology, and renewable energy will drive innovation and technological advancement.

Access to education in rural and remote areas will be enhanced through digital infrastructure, enabling students across India to connect with world-class resources and institutions.

Public-private partnerships (PPPs) will play a key role in financing and managing these infrastructure developments, ensuring that higher education remains responsive, modern, and accessible for all students in a Viksit Bharat by 2047.

4.1.9. Faculty Development and Academic Leadership in Higher Education

By 2047, in a Viksit Bharat (Developed India), faculty development and academic leadership will be central to the success of higher education. Universities will prioritize the continuous upskilling and professional growth of educators to keep pace with evolving teaching methods, technologies, and industry trends. Faculty will be encouraged to engage in global academic networks, enhancing their knowledge through international collaborations, conferences, and research exchanges.

AI-driven tools will help personalize faculty development programs, providing targeted resources for professional growth based on individual strengths and areas for improvement. Faculty members will be equipped with expertise in digital education, interdisciplinary research, and global best practices, ensuring they can offer cutting-edge education in diverse fields.

Academic leadership will focus on empowering faculty members, encouraging them to take leadership roles in shaping institutional policies, research priorities, and student engagement. Leadership training will be offered at all levels to foster an inclusive, innovative, and collaborative academic environment.

By 2047, Indian universities will develop a robust academic leadership pipeline, where faculty not only excel in teaching but also lead groundbreaking research, drive social change, and shape the future of education, aligning with the goals of a Viksit Bharat.

4.1.10. Student well-being and mental health

By 2047, in a Viksit Bharat (Developed India), student well-being and mental health will be prioritized as integral aspects of higher education. Universities will offer comprehensive mental health services, including accessible on-campus counseling, peer support networks, and 24/7 online platforms. Mental health support will be embedded in daily campus life, with trained professionals and AI-driven tools helping students manage stress, anxiety, and academic pressure.

A holistic approach to well-being will include physical wellness programs, such as yoga, fitness, and mindfulness sessions, aimed at fostering resilience and emotional stability. Workshops on emotional intelligence and stress management will be incorporated into curricula to equip students with lifelong coping skills.

Universities will also focus on creating an inclusive campus environment where students from diverse backgrounds, including marginalized groups and those with disabilities, feel supported. Safe spaces for relaxation, reflection, and social interaction will promote mental health, reducing stigma around seeking help.

In 2047, Indian higher education will embrace mental health as a priority, ensuring that students are not only academically successful but also emotionally and psychologically balanced, ready to contribute to a prosperous and inclusive society.

4.2. National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 and Its Impact on Higher Education

The National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 introduces several key provisions for higher education institutions (HEIs) to foster flexibility, inclusivity, and quality. These include promoting multidisciplinary education by integrating arts, science, and vocational training, along with increasing the Gross Enrollment Ratio (GER) to 50% by 2035. HEIs are granted more autonomy in curriculum design, research, and academic governance, empowering them to innovate and respond to evolving needs.

Key academic reforms include flexibility in curricula, allowing students to design personalized learning paths and exit with diplomas or certificates at various stages. This is complemented by an emphasis on multi-disciplinary learning, encouraging students to explore diverse subjects and develop critical thinking skills. The NEP also advocates for the use of regional languages alongside English, promoting bilingual education, especially in early education, while maintaining English for technical and scientific domains.

The NEP aims to decentralize education, shifting from a centralized system to one where universities and colleges have more control over academic decisions. With the creation of bodies like the National Higher Education Regulatory Authority (NHERA), regulatory frameworks are simplified, granting institutions more academic freedom. This decentralization empowers HEIs to address regional needs and foster innovation in education and research.

4.3.Challenges in achieving the Viksit Bharat vision in Higher Education

Achieving the “Viksit Bharat” (Developed India) vision in higher education presents several challenges. One key issue is quality and accessibility. While top-tier institutions like IITs and IIMs thrive, many regional colleges face poor infrastructure, outdated curricula, and underqualified faculty. This disparity limits access to high-quality education for students in rural or economically disadvantaged areas.

Another challenge is the gap between academia and industry needs. Higher education institutions often fail to update curricula in line with industry demands, leaving graduates unprepared for the rapidly changing job market. Bridging this gap through stronger industry-academia partnerships is crucial.

Affordability is also a significant barrier, as the cost of higher education remains high, with limited financial aid options. Many students, especially from low-income backgrounds, are unable to pursue advanced studies due to financial constraints.

Moreover, research and innovation are underfunded, with insufficient investment in research infrastructure and incentives for faculty to engage in meaningful, groundbreaking work. Additionally, regional imbalances in educational opportunities hinder equal participation across the country.

To realize the vision of a developed India, there is a need for comprehensive reforms focusing on improving quality, accessibility, industry linkage, and research funding, alongside greater equity in educational opportunities.

5. Conclusion:

The groundwork plan named Viksit Bharat captures a very inspiring ambition to enhance India’s living standards into becoming a developed nation by the year 2047, which is situated near India’s centennial of independence, marking 100 years. The plan results as a transformable device that sharply enhances the socio-economic conditions of India, aiming towards becoming a 30 trillion dollar economy massively focuses on citizens’ holistic well-being through inclusion and equity. The framework strikingly aids in youth empowerment initiatives, gender equality, poverty wipeout, and farmer’s welfare, presenting strong proof towards progressing to a futuristic society. Weaving the remarkable pre independence reforms with unparalleled post independence teachings, showcases Viksit Bharat as one of the nation’s ever evolving identity that is unchanged and rooted in the traditions of India. With the rest of the world with the narrowed focus onto India alongside government policies and citizen participation during the time when India most requires aid, one vision stands clear as the combination of efforts define solving detrimental issues of environmental concerns and inequality. Viksit Bharat is the ultimate roadmap.

A strong research ecosystem is a crucial pillar for achieving Viksit Bharat. By investing in R&D, fostering collaborations, removing policy bottlenecks, and nurturing a culture of innovation, India can position itself as a global leader in science and technology. The journey towards a developed India is incomplete without harnessing the power of knowledge, and only through a well-integrated research framework can the nation achieve its ambitious developmental goals. The time to act is now, and through collective efforts, India can transform into a knowledge-driven, self-reliant, and prosperous nation.

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