India's Strategic Edge in GCCs at WEF 2025

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India's Strategic Edge in GCCs at WEF 2025

Synopsis

During the WEF 2025 meeting, India's advantages in Global Capability Centres were discussed. Leaders highlighted collaboration opportunities, the country's strong startup ecosystem, and advancements in ESG and green energy, emphasizing that GCCs are expanding beyond tier one cities.

Key Takeaways

  • India's startup ecosystem fosters collaboration.
  • Strong performance in ESG and green technologies.
  • GCCs are expanding beyond major cities.
  • Skill India Mission promotes global partnerships.
  • Government initiatives support innovation across states.

Davos, Jan 22 (NationPress) India's strategic edge in Global Capability Centres (GCCs) was showcased during a session hosted by the Confederation of Indian Industry as part of the discussions at the WEF gathering here on Wednesday.

Nadir Godrej, Chairman & Managing Director of Godrej Industries Ltd, stated, “India’s vibrant startup ecosystem presents a unique opportunity for collaboration. By working together, academia, government, and industry can pioneer new technologies. If we all put in our best efforts, GCCs will continue to thrive.”

He also pointed out that India excels in ESG (environmental, social, and governance) and has made substantial progress in green energy.

Sanjeev Krishan, Chairperson of PwC, remarked, “GCCs in India initially arose due to cost advantages; however, that is no longer the sole reason. Significant strides are being made to ensure that inclusivity and comprehensive growth take place, allowing GCCs to proliferate throughout the nation.”

Discussing potential collaboration areas, Girish P. Ramachandran, Chair of the CII India Business Forum in Singapore and President of Growth Markets at Tata Consultancy Services, stated, “Nations globally can partner with India, leveraging initiatives like the Skill India Mission and collaborating with Indian academic institutions.”

He emphasized that GCCs are not confined to tier one cities, and a vast reservoir of talent exists across the country.

“Furthermore, India's leadership and digital transformation render it an attractive destination for investment. As we evolve, innovate, and take the lead, India's GCCs will be pivotal in propelling our global advancement,” he added.

During the session, Telangana IT & Electronics Minister D. Sridhar Babu stated, “The Telangana Government is focused on enrolling young Indians in Skills' University for essential training and coaching to upskill and reskill workers and those eager to learn about new technologies. This initiative is already underway and is entirely driven by the industry, with the government acting merely as a facilitator.”

He underscored the necessity of advancing in technological innovations, adding, “As the world experiences a new technological revolution, India can take pride in its talent, and we must concentrate on elevating this talent to new heights.”

“We have enhanced our talent to a higher level and have become innovation hubs and accelerators. Today, nearly every state in India is striving for new technologies, operational technologies, or establishing centres of excellence. Over the past 2-3 decades, the Government of India has launched initiatives like Make in India and Digital India, providing a robust platform for every state to progress further,” he concluded.