G20 Sherpa and former NITI Aayog CEO Amitabh Kant believes India’s economy could soar to nearly $30 trillion by 2047, fueled by a young population, rapid urbanisation, and ambitious infrastructure expansion. Speaking at the International Air Transport Association (IATA) event in New Delhi, Kant emphasised the scale of development needed to achieve this vision.
“You will need to create the equivalent of two new Americas in the next 50 years,” he said. “India will have to build a city the size of Chicago every five years. That’s the scale of the challenge ahead.”
Young Demographics: A Vital Advantage
Kant highlighted India’s youthful population as a key driver of long-term growth.
“India has a very young demographic. While the West and countries like Japan and China are ageing, India’s average age is just 28,” he noted. “Even when we celebrate 100 years of independence in 2047, our average age will still be around 35. India is a nation of baby boomers.”
Currently valued at $4 trillion, India has recently become the world’s fourth-largest economy. Over the next two decades, it is expected to significantly expand its global economic footprint.
India Needs 500 New Cities to Support Urban Growth
With an estimated 5 million people migrating to urban areas each year, Kant stressed the urgent need for sustainable urbanisation.
“To accommodate this influx, India must build 500 new cities,” he said. “This is essential to ensure livability, growth, and inclusion in urban spaces.”
Aiming for 400 Airports: Building a Global Aviation Hub
Kant also outlined India’s aviation ambitions, noting the country’s goal to develop 400 operational airports, up from the current count of over 150.
He called on Indian airlines like IndiGo and Air India to expand long-haul international services and emerge as serious global competitors to established players like Emirates and Qatar Airways.
“We must compete confidently in the global aviation market,” he said.
Vision for 2047: A Developed, Sustainable India
Kant’s remarks are closely aligned with India’s broader Vision 2047 — the goal of becoming a fully developed nation by the centenary of its independence. Core to this vision are infrastructure development, youth-driven growth, and sustainable urbanisation.
About the G20 Sherpa Role
A G20 Sherpa is a senior official who represents their country’s leader in preparing for G20 summits. Much like Nepalese Sherpas guide climbers through difficult terrains, G20 Sherpas navigate complex international negotiations, set agendas, and ensure national priorities are addressed.
About the G20
Formed in 1999 after the Asian financial crisis, the G20 is a premier forum for international economic cooperation. It brings together 19 countries and the European Union, representing about two-thirds of the global population, 75% of international trade, and 85% of global GDP.
