Das opened with a stark warning: India’s real GDP grew 7.8% in the first quarter of 2026, yet he cautioned that global uncertainty—wars, energy price shocks, and volatile markets—could still stifle growth.
He explained that the country’s resilience comes from strengthened governance, robust state capacity, and macro‑economic stability, noting that India’s prudent external sector management has helped keep debt‑to‑GDP ratios in check.
Das argued that sustaining momentum toward Viksit Bharat will hinge on investing in clean energy, climate leadership, the AI revolution, and strategic Atmanirbharta (self‑reliance). "As we move toward the Viksit Bharat goal, sustaining growth momentum will be critical," he added.
The conclave, themed "Resilience in an Age of Flux," attracted 180 policymakers, economists, academics, and over 80 international participants from 30 countries, all debating how to navigate global shocks.
"I hope these reforms bring jobs to my village," said a farmer from Uttar Pradesh, underscoring the human stakes behind policy debates.
Das called on lawmakers to prioritize structural reforms; the next step will be to formalize proposals in upcoming parliamentary sessions, where the government plans to outline specific measures to keep growth on track.