ABP India@2047 Summit Wraps Up With Vision For ‘Viksit Bharat’, Reflections On History, Tech & Defence

The inaugural edition of the ABP India@2047 Summit was held with an array of insights into India’s envisioned transformation by 2047, as shared by thought leaders, historians, policy-makers, and innovators across diverse sectors. Prime Minister Narendra Modi, in his address, underscored the significance of the ongoing decade in shaping the country’s future. Emphasising India’s journey towards becoming a Viksit Bharat (Developed India), the Prime Minister spotlighted strides made in self-reliance across defence and manufacturing, while balancing development with heritage.
<h3>Historian Vikram Sampath Says Savarkar Led India’s First Boycott Of Foreign-Made Goods</h3>
In the first session, Renowned author and historian <a href=”https://news.abplive.com/india-at-2047/abp-india-2047-summit-vikram-sampath-india-s-history-veer-savarkar-mahatma-gandhi-rss-britishers-pakistan-1770254″>Vikram Sampath</a>, speaking during the session titled ‘Reimagining India: Letters to the Future’, reflected on whether history could be rewritten and what missteps have strained India-Pakistan relations. Discussing Vinayak Damodar Savarkar, Sampath challenged perceptions labelling Savarkar as an “apologist” and stated, “He was someone who formed the country’s first secret society, Abhinav Bharat, inspired by Italian activists Mazzini and Garibaldi, when Congress was trying to cement its roots.”
Sampath added that Savarkar led India’s first boycott of foreign-made goods, “contrary to the popular notion that Mahatma Gandhi did it first.” He noted that Savarkar burned foreign-made clothes at Pune’s Ferguson College in 1905.
Addressing strained ties with Pakistan, Sampath remarked, “We come from a civilisation where we are taught that there is one truth and there are different ways to reach it… but there are some opposite opinions which believe in ‘my way or the highway’ and brand those who do not follow their ideology as infidels or kafirs.” Citing the Taliban’s destruction of the Bamyan Buddhas in the 1990s, he said such acts stem from ideologies not limited to medieval times. He also stressed the need to address the dwindling Hindu population in Pakistan and Bangladesh.
<h3>‘The Digital Democracy’: Lakh Pati Didis, Drone Didis Share Their Transformational Journeys</h3>
In a session titled <a href=”https://news.abplive.com/india-at-2047/abp-network-india-at-2047-summit-here-is-how-rural-women-lead-indian-digital-revolution-1770246″>‘Tech for All: The Digital Democracy’</a>, several women entrepreneurs shared their transformative journeys using technology in rural India.
Sunita Sharma recounted how drone technology revolutionised fertiliser application. “Previously, it took five to six labourers to spray fertilisers over one acre of land. Today, a drone can accomplish the same task in just seven minutes,” she said. Sharma received her drone free of cost through the Namo Drone Scheme after completing a 15-day training programme.
Jaswinder Kaur also highlighted her transition from hesitance to success, having sprayed over 1,500 acres with drones, thanks to the encouragement from her family. Sunita Devi and Devki Devi shared how solar energy helped them generate sustainable incomes and support their communities.
Ramilaben Parmar explained how renting out agricultural machinery has enabled small-scale farmers to cut production costs. Meanwhile, Vaishaliben Gadiya spoke about empowering villagers by providing access to banking services through her training in the financial sector.
<h3>Amul MD Jayen Mehta On India’s Economic Future</h3>
<a href=”https://news.abplive.com/india-at-2047/abp-india-2047-summit-swami-shivadhyanam-saraswati-on-overcoming-bad-moods-through-yogic-living-1770299″>Jayen Mehta</a>, Managing Director of Amul, during a session titled ‘Made In India: Take on the World’, said the dairy giant aims to touch a turnover of ₹1 lakh crore this year. He highlighted Amul’s cooperative model and said, “Today, if you pay ₹100 for an Amul product, ₹80 will directly go to the farmer’s pocket.”
Mehta added that if Amul’s model is replicated across other sectors, it could accelerate India’s economic growth. “In the next three to five years, $1 trillion will come from the cooperative sector,” he said.
<h3>Swami Shivadhyanam Saraswati Reflects On Yoga, Australian chef Gary Mehigan On Food Culture</h3>
<a href=”https://news.abplive.com/india-at-2047/abp-india-2047-summit-swami-shivadhyanam-saraswati-on-overcoming-bad-moods-through-yogic-living-1770299″>Swami Shivadhyanam Saraswati</a>, in conversation with journalist Dibang, delved into the deeper dimensions of yoga during a session on its transformative potential. He traced his spiritual lineage to Swami Sivananda Saraswati of Rishikesh and stressed, “Yoga is far more than the 84 asanas.” He described yoga as a discipline aligning intellect, emotions, and actions, and a remedy for psychosomatic ailments through sanyam (discipline) and mindful living.
Australian celebrity chef <a href=”https://news.abplive.com/india-at-2047/dark-kitchens-to-food-capsules-australian-chef-gary-mehigan-food-alarming-future-abp-india-at-2047-summit-1770321″>Gary Mehigan</a>, former MasterChef Australia judge, raised concerns about the declining culture of home-cooked meals. Speaking about the rise of food capsules, Mehigan said, “Terrified of food capsules… I couldn’t think of a world more terrifying, more bland, more soulless than one without delicious and wonderful food. It’s like life without art or music or love. I hope it never happens.”
He criticised modern trends replacing traditional kitchens with “dark kitchens,” adding, “Young children sitting in front of their own devices, completely detached from each other and not bonding over a meal—breaks a cycle of humanity that’s been in place for millennia.”
<h3>Is India War Ready?</h3>
Former Indian High Commissioner <a href=”https://news.abplive.com/news/india/situation-serious-but-here-s-what-ajay-bisaria-said-on-india-pakistan-tensions-1770360″>Ajay Bisaria and Lt. Gen. Devendra Pratap Pandey</a> also weighed in on India’s military and diplomatic prowess. “The difference between India and Pakistan is that our military decisions are taken by our Prime Minister; and their orders are issued by the army chief. Our international diplomacy has been way more successful than Pakistan’s,” wrote Bisaria.
Reflecting on the handling of cross-border tensions, Bisaria said, “We will take necessary steps in our own time,” while also recalling the efforts undertaken to bring back Capt. Abhinandan Varthaman.
“India is ready to deal with Pakistan and China at the same time. But there are enemies within who question the Army’s intent. We should stay away from instigation. Those who want proof can seek it from Pakistan,” Lt. Gen. Devendra Pratap Pandey said.
“India has emerged from the time when it was short on ammunition and personnel. Now, we have the capability to retaliate with full force as per orders. We shall hit back when Pakistan would be tired and least expecting it,” he stressed.
The India@2047 Summit served as a platform to articulate a bold vision for India’s future—anchored in innovation, heritage, empowerment, and unity.
<h3>“Cricket Is Not Just for Boys”: Sportswomen On Gender, Grit, India’s Sporting Future </h3>
Speaking on the theme ‘Testing Endurance, Creating a Sporting Culture’, legendary sportswomen <a href=”https://news.abplive.com/india-at-2047/mithali-raj-rani-rampal-lovlina-borgohain-india-2047-summit-testing-endurance-tough-for-women-struggle-cricket-hockey-boxing-1770333″>Mithali Raj</a>, Rani Rampal, and Lovlina Borgohain shared deeply personal stories of grit, gender bias, and inner strength.
Former Indian women’s cricket team captain Mithali Raj revealed that her original aspiration was to become a dancer. “My brother would go for training at 6 AM, and when I saw him play, I developed a desire to play cricket. But my father said, ‘Cricket is only for boys, it’s not for girls.’ My brother’s coach saw my potential and told my father to invest in me,” she recalled.
Raj also reflected on gendered comparisons in cricket, especially being called “Lady Sachin.” “He is my role model… it’s an honour. Earlier, comparisons with men’s cricket felt jarring because women’s cricket wasn’t in sync with men’s—who had a head start of decades,” she said. In a candid moment, she revealed that a marriage prospect once asked her, “If my parents are ill, will you go play for India?”—a question that left her taken aback.
Rani Rampal, former captain of the Indian women’s hockey team, described her struggles growing up as a girl child in Haryana. “My parents said sports was not an option for me, and people discouraged them. My father had a soft corner for me; our family was boycotted after they allowed me to play,” she said, adding, “My dream was to inspire other girls.”
Rampal also spoke emotionally about her retirement: “When you end something, you recall where you started. The beginning was not pleasant—be it gender or poverty. My coach taught me human values and how to become a good person.”
Olympic medallist Lovlina Borgohain credited meditation, spirituality, and breathing exercises for helping her deal with pressure. “During your menstrual cycles, your body behaves differently… It’s a fight within yourself to perform despite pain,” Raj added, highlighting the resilience required of women athletes.
<h3>Gautam Gambhir Hits Back At Criticism Over Coaching, Addresses Virat Kohli & Rohit Sharma’s Future In Team India</h3>
In candid remarks, Indian men’s cricket team head coach <a href=”https://news.abplive.com/india-at-2047/gautam-gambhir-on-commentators-indian-cricket-team-abp-live-india-2047-summit-1770361″>Gautam Gambhir</a>, addressing criticism around his coaching stint, declared, “Hindustan ki cricket kisiki jagir nahi hai (Indian cricket does not belong to any one person).” Dismissing the idea that cricket commentators could dictate terms, Gambhir said, “They think Indian cricket is their personal property. They are absolutely wrong. It belongs to 140 crore Indians.”
He added, “I welcome criticism—it’s been just 8 months—but there are some who’ve been in the commentary box for 25 years and only know how to question others.”
Responding to questions on player selection, Gambhir clarified, “Till the time Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli are performing, they should be in the team. Performance ensures selection—not the coach, selector, or BCCI.”
Asked about his dynamic with Virat Kohli, Gambhir quipped, “It’s just two Delhi boys having fun. If that’s a problem, I’ll tell BCCI not to post about it.”
On his aggressive demeanour, he said, “I want to be a winner. Nobody wants to lose. I don’t want to change that.” Reflecting on his role in India’s 2011 World Cup win, he remarked, “One thinks about being part of a World Cup-winning team. No one remembers individual scores.”
<h3 class=”p1″>Jubin Nautiyal Reflects on Rejections, Roots, and Musical Authenticity</h3>
Renowned playback singer <a href=”https://news.abplive.com/india-at-2047/jubin-nautiyal-talks-about-his-journey-and-latest-song-eega-at-abp-india-at-2047-summit-1770379″>Jubin Nautiyal</a> delved into the spiritual connection of music, the importance of authenticity, and staying true to one’s individuality in an ever-evolving industry.
In a candid conversation moderated by ABP anchor Pratima Mishra, Jubin recounted how his journey in music began. Reflecting on the early setbacks in his career, including rejections from music reality shows like Indian Idol, Jubin expressed gratitude for those experiences. 
Highlighting his cultural background, the Raatan Lambiyan singer spoke about his tribal roots before performing his latest song Eega for the audience, offering a live taste of his evolving sound and deep connection to his heritage.
Addressing the trend of remixing classic tracks, Jubin remarked on the intent behind such renditions. “Old songs had a lot of conviction. I believe that if one is getting the opportunity to celebrate those songs and present a legendary song in front of a younger generation then why not,” he stated.
He also emphasised the value of sincerity over showmanship. “Never sing to impress but to express. What is destined for you cannot be taken away by anyone, and no one can give you more than what is written in your destiny,” said Jubin.
<h3>’Khadi Needs Push, Ecosystem Needs Change’: Raymond Chairman Reflects On India’s Textile Industry</h3>
Business leader <a href=”https://news.abplive.com/business/abp-network-india-at-2047-summit-reaching-top-is-easy-staying-there-is-not-says-gautam-hari-singhania-1770406″>Gautam Hari Singhania</a>, Chairman and MD of Raymond Ltd, lauded India’s textile legacy during his address. “Even today, the charkha and khadi remain symbols of revolution and self-reliance,” he said. Highlighting Raymond’s presence in 55 countries, he added, “Our journey mirrors India itself—grounded in tradition, bold in ambition, global in reach.”
On global trade tensions and the US-China tariff war, he remarked, “These aren’t difficult times—they’re full of opportunity. While a pessimist sees a problem, an optimist sees potential.”
He stressed the importance of promoting Khadi, noting, “The entire ecosystem needs to change… There’s a lot of talent that needs support.”
<h3>Aamir Khan On ‘Sitare Zameen Par’ And Pahalgam Attack Retaliation</h3>
Actor <a href=”https://news.abplive.com/india-at-2047/aamir-khan-india-2047-summit-kashmir-mahabharata-sitaare-zameen-par-1770428″>Aamir Khan</a> also spoke at the summit, announcing his film ‘Sitare Zameen Par’ as a sequel to Taare Zameen Par. “It takes the theme of inclusion forward by ten steps. It will make us laugh and realise our shared emotions,” he said.
Reflecting on the pandemic’s impact, Khan shared, “During Covid, I realised I neglected personal relationships. I’ve changed. I now spend evenings with my mother and children.”
On the Modi government’s backing of the film industry, Khan said, “In my 35-year career, this is the first time the government has thought about the entertainment industry. It shows intent to support and grow this sector.”
Reacting to the terror attack in Pahalgam, Khan said, “I was shocked, saddened, and angered. I skipped the Andaz Apna Apna re-release premiere because of it,” adding, “I trust PM Modi will take a decision in the nation’s best interest.”
<h3>PM Modi Reveals ‘GEP-Centric’ Approach, Makes Important Assertion On Water Sharing With Pakistan</h3>
The summit concluded with <a href=”https://news.abplive.com/news/india/india-s-water-will-flow-for-india-s-interest-pm-modi-on-indus-water-treaty-suspension-1770437″>Prime Minister Narendra Modi</a> presenting his vision of Viksit Bharat. Emphasising reforms and global engagement, PM Modi stated, “India is not just doing reforms, but actively becoming a vibrant hub of trade and commerce.”
Prime Minister Narendra Modi, addressing the ABP India At 2047 Summit, presented his vision for a developed India by 2047, while underscoring key reforms undertaken by his government and reaffirming the centrality of national interest in policy decisions.
Towards the end of the summit, PM Modi took the stage to articulate his ‘Viksit Bharat’ roadmap, highlighting economic, defence, digital, and social reforms, and asserting that India is evolving from a GDP-centric model to one based on the “Gross Empowerment of People (GEP)”.
Touching upon the sensitive issue of Indus Water Treaty suspension, the Prime Minister said, “Earlier, India’s water was being given to others. Now India’s water will flow for the country’s benefit; it will stop for India’s interests and be used for the country.”
Speaking about India’s growing global engagement, the Prime Minister said, “India is not only doing reforms but also actively engaging with the world to become a vibrant trade and commerce hub.” He added that the India-UK Free Trade Agreement would be a catalyst for youth employment and economic growth, stating, “It is great news for youth, as it will give a boost to economic activities. Indian businesses and MSMEs will see new paths open up.”
Reflecting on past governance, he said major reforms were historically delayed due to vote-bank politics and fear of losing power. “For every decision made earlier, considerations were made as to what the world and vote bank will think… For selfish interests, major reforms were delayed,” PM Modi said. He asserted that, “The only way a country progresses is to follow ‘Nation First’.”
Addressing social reforms, PM Modi highlighted the removal of taboos around issues like Triple Talaq. “So many subjects in the past were tabooed for discussion because there was fear regarding upsetting vote bank. Like Triple Talaq, which destroyed the lives of women. We made a law for their benefit,” he said, adding that amendments to the Waqf Law are now underway to benefit women, the poor, and Pasmanda Muslims.
Emphasising the country’s leap in technology and tradition, he remarked, “Today India is moving forward with development and heritage, tradition and technology. We are among top nations in digital transactions while we are also taking Yoga and Ayurveda traditions to the world.”
Reflecting on the progress since 2014, PM Modi said, “In 2014, our government was formed in such a situation when the countrymen’s trust in the government had almost broken. Some people even started questioning whether democracy and development can go together in our country. Today… one can proudly say – Democracy can deliver.”
He cited the upliftment of 25 crore people from poverty over the last decade and the impact of schemes like the Mudra Yojana in supporting small entrepreneurs.
On India’s defence capabilities, PM Modi stated, “India is emerging as a major defence manufacturer and exporter. Our defence exports are going to over 100 countries… We have India-made INS Vikrant, INS Surat, INS Nilgiri.”
Highlighting the country’s export performance, he said, “In the electronics sector, India has emerged as a major exporter. Our local products have gone global… In a decade, India has nearly doubled its exports. To boost it, we announced ‘Mission Manufacturing’ in this year’s budget.”
Concluding with a futuristic outlook, PM Modi said, “This decade will decide India’s direction for the future. It is the period to write a new chapter for the country. I see this spirit in all citizens, institution, and sectors.”