Should India Lead or Follow in the Next Industrial Revolution?
Click to start listening
Synopsis
NITI Aayog's Vice Chairman, Suman Bery, emphasizes the necessity for India to lead the upcoming industrial revolution. With sectors like green hydrogen and electric mobility at the forefront, Bery argues for a unique development path that incorporates inclusivity and adaptability, positioning India as a global leader in industrial transformation.
Key Takeaways
- India must lead in the industrial revolution.
- Focus on inclusive and adaptable policies.
- Strengthen supply chains and skill ecosystems.
- Promote small and medium enterprises.
- Address geopolitical challenges proactively.
New Delhi, Oct 29 (NationPress) NITI Aayog's Vice Chairman Suman Bery stated on Wednesday that India should aim to lead, rather than follow, in the upcoming industrial revolution characterized by sectors like green hydrogen, electric mobility, semiconductors, and advanced materials.
During a conference organized by the Institute for Studies in Industrial Development (ISID), Bery remarked that while India can learn from China's industrial growth, it must carve its own path to progress.
He asserted that India's forthcoming industrial policy should emphasize inclusivity and adaptability instead of merely copying foreign models.
He stressed the necessity of developing strong supply chains, maintaining quality standards, and fostering skill ecosystems, allowing smaller enterprises to grow and integrate into global production networks.
Bery pointed out that India's industrial strategy should be driven by state and district initiatives, focusing on creating regional industrial clusters rather than a centralized approach from New Delhi.
He acknowledged that while India has made significant strides in large-scale reforms, the next advancement will hinge on integrating small and medium enterprises into both global and domestic value chains through standards, logistics, and skill alignment.
Bery emphasized that this industrial transformation should lead to productive jobs and increased incomes for the Indian population.
ISID Director and Monetary Policy Committee member Nagesh Kumar also emphasized that industrial transformation must create productive employment opportunities and boost incomes.
"The manufacturing sector has the most substantial backward and forward linkages among productive sectors, making it a pivotal driver for both growth and job creation," he explained.
Kumar warned that geopolitical uncertainties, particularly due to increased US tariffs, present challenges for India's labor-intensive exports.
He also highlighted the importance of leveraging India's large domestic market while enhancing integration with global supply chains to diversify export markets through free trade agreements (FTAs).
Point of View
It's imperative to recognize India's potential in the next industrial revolution. The insights from Suman Bery and Nagesh Kumar shed light on the importance of a tailored strategy that promotes local enterprises while integrating them into global markets. This approach not only strengthens India's economic landscape but also enhances job creation and sustainable growth.
NationPress
30/10/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What industries will define the next industrial revolution in India?
The next industrial revolution in India will be characterized by industries such as green hydrogen, electric mobility, semiconductors, and advanced materials.
How should India approach its industrial policy?
India's industrial policy should focus on inclusivity and adaptability, prioritizing the development of strong supply chains and skill ecosystems.
What role do small and medium enterprises play in India's industrial strategy?
Small and medium enterprises are crucial for integrating into global and domestic value chains, contributing to economic growth and job creation.
Why is it important for India to create regional industrial clusters?
Creating regional industrial clusters allows for localized development and enhances the effectiveness of state and district-led initiatives.
What are the challenges posed by geopolitical uncertainties?
Geopolitical uncertainties, especially from US tariff hikes, can negatively impact India's labor-intensive exports and overall economic stability.
