Can India Achieve a $1 Trillion ‘Orange Economy’ by 2047?
Click to start listening
Synopsis
Kiran Mazumdar Shaw passionately advocates for India's creative economy, urging startups to extend their reach and innovate. With a vision to reach a $1 trillion 'Orange Economy' by 2047, she emphasizes the importance of merging tradition with technology to create impactful narratives. Can India truly realize this ambitious goal?
Key Takeaways
- India's current media and entertainment contribution is $20 billion.
- Aim for $100 billion and ultimately $1 trillion by 2047.
- Focus on developing brands and intellectual property beyond films.
- Embrace technology to transform cultural heritage into global franchises.
- Perseverance and originality are key to success in the creative economy.
Mumbai, May 3 (NationPress) The media and entertainment industry currently contributes $20 billion to the GDP. We should set our sights on reaching $100 billion and ultimately aim for a $1 trillion ‘Orange Economy’ by 2047, aligning with Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision,” stated Kiran Mazumdar Shaw, a global business leader and founder of Biocon.
The term ‘Orange Economy’ signifies the creative economy, encapsulating knowledge-driven activities that intertwine culture, creativity, technology, and intellectual property to foster economic, social, and cultural progression.
Shaw encouraged Indian startups in the creative content field to extend their horizons beyond just films, and to develop brands, ecosystems, and intellectual properties that can make a significant impact globally during the World Audio Visual and Entertainment Summit (WAVES) 2025.
She emphasized the global potential of narratives originating from India.
“Now is the time for India to craft new stories that merge tradition with technology. Just as George Lucas drew on Indian epics for Star Wars, we can harness technology to elevate our cultural heritage into global franchises,” she remarked.
Highlighting India's demographic and digital advantages, she pointed out that with over a billion smartphones and a tech-savvy Generation Z, India is well-positioned for global innovation.
“However, like any blockbuster, success begins small—with a concept, a strategy, and unwavering focus,” she stressed.
Shaw drew parallels with her journey of founding Biocon in a garage and transforming it into a global biotech powerhouse.
Regarding India’s creative economy, she stated that stakeholders should concentrate on nurturing the burgeoning ‘Orange Economy,’ which holds tremendous potential.
In response to inquiries about India’s creative strengths, Shaw noted the importance of the convergence of augmented reality, virtual reality, and immersive experiences as pivotal areas for development.
“The upcoming unicorns will not merely be applications but creators who grasp intellectual property, technology, and immersive storytelling,” she asserted.
She encouraged startups to prioritize originality and perseverance, stating, “Every remarkable idea starts small. What truly matters is the distance you cover. Embracing failure is part of the journey.”
Point of View
It is imperative to recognize the transformative potential of India's creative economy. Kiran Mazumdar Shaw's vision aligns with national aspirations for growth and innovation. Emphasizing the role of startups in fostering this 'Orange Economy' is essential, as it bridges tradition with modern technology, paving the way for a prosperous future.
NationPress
30/07/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the 'Orange Economy'?
The 'Orange Economy' refers to the creative economy that integrates culture, creativity, technology, and intellectual property to drive economic and social growth.
How much does the media and entertainment sector contribute to India's GDP?
Currently, the media and entertainment sector contributes approximately $20 billion to India's GDP.
What are the key areas for growth in India's creative economy?
Key areas for growth include the convergence of augmented reality, virtual reality, and immersive storytelling experiences.
What role do startups play in the Orange Economy?
Startups are crucial for innovation in the Orange Economy, focusing on developing intellectual property and creating global brands.
What is Kiran Mazumdar Shaw's vision for the future?
Shaw envisions India reaching a $1 trillion 'Orange Economy' by 2047, urging startups to blend tradition with technology to craft compelling narratives.
