Vice-President Radhakrishnan says democracy underpins India’s lasting reforms
Vice-President C P Radhakrishnan told the Kautilya Economic Conclave that India’s democratic consensus-building makes its economic reforms durable, though sometimes slower.
At the Institute of Economic Growth’s Kautilya Economic Conclave, Vice-President C P Radhakrishnan argued that India’s democratic framework, with its emphasis on consensus, is the backbone of durable economic reforms despite occasional delays. He stressed that inclusive growth is essential for democratic stability, warning that youth disillusionment could erode confidence in the system. Highlighting a 7.8 % GDP rise in FY27 Q1, a sovereign rating upgrade by a Japanese agency, and the lifting of over 250 million people out of poverty, he linked these gains to democratic processes.
Radhakrishnan pointed to financial inclusion milestones such as 590 million Jan Dhan accounts and expanding GST taxpayer base, as well as women-run self-help groups and railway connectivity improvements. He called for responsible technology use, stronger human capital, and deeper global research partnerships to sustain resilience in a rapidly changing world.
Why it matters
The speech outlines how India's democratic practices shape its economic policy and inclusive growth, affecting millions of citizens.
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