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In recent years, Prime Minister Modi has expressed the aspiration for the 21st century to be India's century, aligning with the vision of Swami Vivekananda, who envisioned India as the center of world civilization in this era. This ambitious goal has been detailed in my book "India 2050," outlining strategies for its attainment. However, the Prime Minister has now shifted focus, aiming for India to achieve developed status by 2047, coinciding with the centenary of its Independence. Specifically, he envisions India becoming a $30 trillion economy and the world's third-largest economy by 2047. While this goal is ambitious, it has inherent limitations.

Firstly, GDP alone is an inadequate measure of a nation's well-being, as highlighted by economists like Simon Kuznets, the originator of the concept. Furthermore, pegging economic goals to current dollar values disregards fluctuations in exchange rates and inflation, which are not indicative of national welfare. Additionally, the year 2047 lacks inspirational significance, as it predates significant milestones in India's history, such as the establishment of the name Bharat for India, which occurred in 2050. Moreover, the pursuit of GDP growth within the framework of developed countries' production and consumption patterns contradicts India's stance on reevaluating the current development paradigm, as articulated in forums like the Global Summit on LiFE Economy.

The need for a new development paradigm is underscored by Mahatma Gandhi's warnings against blindly adopting Western industrialism, which he foresaw would lead to environmental degradation and global exploitation. Indeed, the flaws of the current paradigm are evident in the existential threat posed by climate change, exacerbated by Western-style production and consumption. While some developed countries are striving for net-zero emissions by 2050, progress remains inadequate due to the reluctance to fundamentally alter the existing paradigm.

A successful paradigm shift, as elucidated by Thomas Kuhn, requires several conditions: the recognition of anomalies in the existing paradigm, the emergence of an alternative paradigm, advocacy by influential figures, and readiness within the intellectual community. However, despite growing awareness of the shortcomings of the current paradigm, substantive change is yet to materialize.

The current paradigm's emphasis on materialism, individualism, and competition has led to social isolation, environmental degradation, and global inequities. To address these imbalances, a new paradigm must prioritize spirituality, community, and cooperation. India, with its rich tradition of holistic thinking, is uniquely positioned to lead this transformation.

Over the next 25 years, India can serve as a beacon of this new paradigm by establishing Special Educational Zones (SEZs) to foster collaboration with global academic and research institutions. Through interdisciplinary research and innovative policies, India can embody a holistic approach to development by 2047 or 2050.

Collaboration with the United States, as a dominant player in shaping the current paradigm, is crucial for effecting change. As America's global influence wanes, there is an opportunity for mutual learning and cooperation between India and the US to chart a new course for the 21st century.

The specifics of this new paradigm will evolve over time but may include reimagining urbanization, promoting plant-based diets, prioritizing mental and physical well-being through practices like Yoga, and addressing income inequality. Ultimately, the era of enlightenment will give way to an era of fulfillment, guided by India's leadership and collaboration with the global community.