Imagining India

In Imagining India: Idea Of A Renewed Nation, Nandan Nilekani explores India’s rise as an economic power, its future prospects, and the reforms necessary to secure long-term success.

Over the last two decades, India has undergone tremendous economic changes, which in turn have reshaped its cultural, political, and social landscape. Internationally, the country has also matured into a significant political presence. Nilekani, co-founder of Infosys and a globally respected entrepreneur, draws on his rich experience to present an insightful interpretation of India’s past, present, and potential future.

Having actively participated in India’s economic growth, Nilekani is well-positioned to highlight the reforms required to sustain progress. He emphasizes the internal challenges that must be addressed—ranging from healthcare and education to environmental concerns and entrenched inequalities. According to him, India’s enormous potential remains unrealized because deep-rooted problems like social injustice, caste barriers, lack of quality education, and limited job opportunities continue to hold it back. For growth to be inclusive, these issues must be tackled head-on, urbanization encouraged, and equal opportunities ensured for all.

Nilekani also raises difficult questions: Why does one of the world’s fastest-growing democracies have Asia’s second-largest slum? Why is this global outsourcing hub plagued by the highest number of school dropouts? Why does red tape discourage investment and innovation? While these are not easy to answer, Nilekani uses his experiences to underline the urgent need for bold reforms, which would improve India’s global reputation and attract greater international investment.

Looking back at India’s journey since independence, Nilekani envisions a brighter future if the right changes are made. What the nation needs, he argues, are innovative ideas, rational policies, and strong leadership to put them into action.