Erik Torenberg and Samo Burja examine India's trajectory as the world's most populous nation, tackling India's surprising demographic decline, delayed industrialization due to bureaucratic inefficiency, and complex relations with China and Pakistan. They explore Modi's nationalist approach, India's digital potential, and how institutional barriers might limit India's rise in a multipolar world order.
Make sure to subscribe to Samo Burja's Bismarck Brief and the Live Players podcast to read analyses and briefs like this one:
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X / TWITTER:
@SamoBurja
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HIGHLIGHTS OF THE DISCUSSION:
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Demographics: India has surpassed China in population but faces rapid aging with fertility rates already below replacement level.
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Economic Development: Industrialization likely within 50 years, not 10; constrained by bureaucracy and regulation rather than demographics.
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Reform Needs: Requires anti-corruption efforts, reduced bureaucracy, special economic zones, and infrastructure development.
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Geopolitics: Complicated relationships with China (border disputes) and the West; Samo suggests India should be more self-interested in international relations.
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Modi's Impact: Promotes nationalism but hasn't effectively addressed bureaucratic problems.
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Digital Potential: Has talent for creating domestic tech giants with proper digital protectionism.
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Warning: Must avoid nuclear conflict with Pakistan.
