India on track to becoming third-largest economy by FY31

India on track to becoming third-largest economy by FY31

The country is on track to becoming the third-largest economy by 2030-31, driven by a projected annual growth rate of 6.7 percent this fiscal, according to a S&P Global report.

The report, which was released on September 19, also said that with 8.2 percent growth rate in FY2024, continued reforms are crucial to improving business transactions and logistics, boosting private sector investment and reducing reliance on public capital. 

S&P said equity markets are expected to stay dynamic and competitive due to strong growth prospects and better regulation, and foreign inflows into Indian government bonds have surged since the country joined major emerging market indexes, with further growth anticipated. 

The first edition of ‘India Forward: Emerging Perspectives’ report said that India must develop infrastructure and geopolitical strategies, particularly regarding its extensive coastline to maximise trade benefits. 

Nearly 90 percent of India’s trade is seaborne, necessitating robust port infrastructure to manage increasing exports and bulk commodity imports, the report added. 

S&P noted that India faces rising domestic energy demands and suggested that it can tap sustainable technologies, including renewables and low-emission fuels, balancing energy security with its energy transition plans. It said that agriculture will rely on advanced technologies and new policies are needed to improve infrastructure and productivity in the sector.