This is a non-financial blog.
This Independence Day feels different. Operation Sindoor has been a resolute success, delivering a strong message to our neighbour that there cannot be business as usual and they will have to pay a price for harbouring terrorists and troubling India. It is high time that they turned their attention to domestic challenges, created opportunities and better livelihoods for their people, and pursued growth alongside their neighbours. They would do well to take a page from India, which, despite geopolitical differences with China, continues to engage and manage its relationship with the country.
The world has grown increasingly protectionist, at least in the near term. The recent tariff dispute with the US should serve as an opportunity for India to expand its export footprint beyond the American market. India is actively working to finalize trade agreements with multiple nations. While these will take time to conclude; once in place, they will help cushion the impact of country-specific trade disruptions.
In its 79th year of Independence, India stands tall with confidence. As the world’s largest democracy and home to one of the largest youth populations, we are poised to drive nation-building forward. We have the resources, the true challenge lies in crafting a sustainable vision for the future, building a clear roadmap, and creating an ecosystem that harnesses these resources to turn that vision into reality. India’s GDP is currently around USD 4 trillion, and with an estimated growth rate of 6.5%, we are poised to cross USD 15 trillion over the next 21 years, right in time to celebrate our centenary of Independence.
So, what is expected of us, the common citizens?
To convey my point, I would like to use the example of Japan.
After World War II, Japan was left devastated and demoralized but that only strengthened the resolve of Japanese people to rebuild Japan. In just four decades, they transformed Japan into one of the most advanced countries in the world. By the 1980s, Japanese companies were in a position to acquire some of the most prized assets globally. This did not come easy. Behind this lay a wounded ego and years of relentless toil and determination to prove that Japan, despite losing a war would rise again like a phoenix. Japan nominal GDP at the end of World War II in 1945 was USD 15 billion and it grew 200 times to USD 3.13 trillion by the year 1990.
India’s situation is a little different. Our ego is not bruised, which can be both a boon and a bane. A bane, because it may not push us hard enough to give our absolute best; a boon, because the stage is already set for remarkable success without enduring severe hardship. Now is the time for each of us, as citizens, to think outside the box recognizing our individual strengths and aligning them with the larger mission of nation-building. We must look beyond seeking opportunities solely for ourselves and focus on creating opportunities for others.
Let us never forget that this independence did not come easy. It was won through the blood, sweat, and sacrifice of countless men and women who gave their lives for the freedom. The greatest tribute we can offer to their sacrifice is to shape India into a nation that shines in its fullest glory. Together, let us build a stronger, brighter, and greater India.
Wishing you and your family a very happy 79th Independence Day!
Disclaimer
The writer occasionally writes about topics that are not related to personal finance.
The writer is a SEBI Registered Adviser and Founder of FinMyn (https://finmyn.com). He provides Fee-Only Financial Planning and Investment Advisory services.
He has advised many clients in India, the US, the Middle East, Southeast Asia, Europe and Australia.
To know more about him, click on https://finmyn.com/about/.