BS EDIT: Can India Grow Rich Before It Grows Old?

Published On Jun 25, 2025

A Rare Opportunity

India’s working-age population surged in 2019. The window to convert this into wealth closes in 30 years

Falling Behind China

China grew at 9.3% during its demographic phase. India’s pace is slower — about 3 points behind

Ambition Has Slipped

India once aimed for double-digit growth. Today, even 8% — needed for Viksit Bharat — feels distant

Human Capital Gaps

Structural shifts have stalled. More Indians are back in agriculture, not moving up the value chain

What Must Change

Fix school education, align skilling with jobs, boost migration, and bring more women into the workforce

No Second Chance

Demographics won’t wait. Without urgent reforms, India risks getting old before getting rich