Media Release
Udupi, Jan 27: Renowned journalist Shekhar Gupta emphasised the need for India to aim for a growth rate exceeding 7%.
Delivering the ninth Dr M V Kamath endowment memorial lecture at an event organised by the Manipal Institute of Communication (MIC), Gupta highlighted that India has not witnessed substantial growth over the past decade. He called for introspection rather than self-congratulation.
Praising the Modi government for its efficient distribution mechanisms for the poor, Gupta acknowledged that the system has significantly reduced corruption. However, he expressed concern that India appears to be stuck in a cycle of stagnation, with no substantial progress to showcase. He noted that the tendency to conflate domestic politics with international issues often detracts from meaningful development, as everything becomes focused on electoral gains.
Gupta remarked that Indians often assume a moral right to preach to the world, rooted in the strength of their ancient civilization. However, he pointed out that the global order is undergoing significant redefinition. He highlighted India and Tanzania as examples of multi-civilisational societies that have endured over time.
The senior journalist observed that India has grown stronger with each passing decade, both internally and externally, and has become more cohesive as a society. He described social cohesion as a gift to the world, adding that the Indian Constitution provides a legal framework compelling diverse communities to coexist peacefully.
Gupta criticised the country's economic performance, noting that the growth anticipated during the Congress-era economic reforms has not been sustained. While India initially positioned itself as a democratic alternative to China, it has now shifted to a narrative of cultural superiority.
Discussing global politics, Gupta cited the example of Donald Trump as evidence of a transformed world order. He urged India to establish international platforms and let others tell its story instead of constantly narrating it domestically. He argued that criticism accompanying development should be ignored.
He also criticised the Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA), describing it as an unnecessary provocation. Gupta lamented the lack of contestation in Indian history and emphasised the urgent need for improvements in public education, which he described as being in a state of serious decline.
Manipal Academy of Higher Education (MAHE), pro vice-chancellor, Technology and Sciences, Dr Narayana Sabahith, registrar, Dr Giridhar Kini, COO, Dr Raviraja NS, MIC director, Dr Padma Rani were present.
About Manipal Academy of Higher Education
Manipal Academy of Higher Education (MAHE) is an Institution of Eminence Deemed-to-be University. MAHE offers over 400 specialisations across the Health Sciences (HS), Management, Law, Humanities & Social Sciences (MLHS), and Technology & Science (T&S) streams through its constituent units at campuses in Manipal, Mangaluru, Bengaluru, Jamshedpur, and Dubai.
With a remarkable academic track record, state-of-the-art infrastructure, and significant contributions to research, MAHE has earned recognition and acclaim nationally and internationally. In October 2020, the Ministry of Education, Government of India, awarded MAHE the prestigious Institution of Eminence status. Currently ranked 4th in the National Institutional Ranking Framework (NIRF), MAHE is the preferred choice for students seeking a transformative learning experience and an enriching campus life and for national & multi-national corporates looking for top talent.