Join Arjun Ramani, a Global business and economics correspondent for The Economist, as he dives into India's economic future. He discusses Prime Minister Modi's bid for a third term, fueled by a backdrop of economic growth but tempered by the need for reforms. Ramani analyzes the booming Indian IT sector while highlighting labor market challenges. Plus, he sheds light on Russia's resilient arms industry amid sanctions and China's strategic support. For a light-hearted twist, he shares humorous insights on the quirks of air travel!
India's economic growth under Modi requires new reforms to sustain success.
Russia's arms industry thrives by sourcing crucial parts from China despite Western sanctions.
Deep dives
India's Economic Growth and Challenges
India's economic growth under Prime Minister Narendra Modi has been significant, making it the world's fifth-largest economy with promising potential to reach third place by 2027. The key factors driving India's growth include investments in digital and physical infrastructure, creation of a single national market, and a strong emphasis on service exports like IT. However, challenges remain, such as the need to address the labor market issues where only a small fraction of the working-age population have formal jobs, highlighting the importance of boosting productivity and creating more employment opportunities.
Narendra Modi's Role in India's Economic Progress
The debate surrounding Prime Minister Narendra Modi's impact on India's economic success reveals a mixed perspective. While India has experienced steady growth during Modi's tenure, some argue that the growth rate has slowed compared to previous administrations due to global economic factors. Modi's leadership is credited for executing key reforms like infrastructure development and digital initiatives despite criticisms of fostering crony capitalism. The forecast predicts continued growth for India, yet challenges like improving the education system and transitioning labor force remain.
Russia's Weapon Sourcing Amid Ukraine Conflict
Despite facing Western sanctions, Russia has managed to bolster its arms industry and military supplies through strategic measures. Notably, Russia has turned to China for crucial parts and electronics needed for weapon production, exploiting gaps in the sanctions regime. The surge in weapon imports from China coincided with significant events like Vladimir Putin's mobilization declaration and Xi Jinping's visit to Russia. These developments underscore the challenges of enforcing sanctions effectively, with Russia adapting its military strategy and seeking technology for both military and civilian purposes.
Narendra Modi’s reputation for prosperity is likely to propel him to a third term. But for India’s economic successes to last, the country needs a set of new reforms. Despite a host of sanctions from the West, Russia still has a booming arms industry. Where are all the weapons coming from (09:50)? And, the perils of trying to work on a plane (13:54).