India’s ascent on the global trade stage was in full focus at the Economic Times World Leaders Forum, held on August 22–23 at Taj Palace, New Delhi. The high-profile gathering was attended by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Union Ministers, leading state chiefs, international business icons, and industry leaders. Among the participants was Vinet K. Chadha, Managing Director of Combined Logistics Solutions, who witnessed firsthand how India is reshaping its trade and logistics landscape.
Export Ambitions and Self-Reliance
Prime Minister Narendra Modi highlighted India’s export momentum—from agriculture exports crossing ₹4 lakh crore to electric vehicles reaching over 100 countries. He underlined reforms in ports, shipping, and taxation aimed at boosting logistics efficiency and making India a more attractive trade partner.
Defense Minister Rajnath Singh showcased the “Make in India” success story, citing a 35-fold increase in defense exports over the last decade to ₹23,622 crore, serving nearly 100 countries.
State leaders echoed the vision. Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Mohan Yadav reported ₹66,000 crore worth of exports while maintaining fiscal stability without new loans. Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu stressed the importance of creating global Indian brands and announced plans for India’s first quantum computing facility by 2026.
Infrastructure: The Backbone of Growth
Union Minister Nitin Gadkari outlined a massive infrastructure push—green highways, tunnels, ropeways, and alternative fuel initiatives—designed to cut logistics costs (currently ~10% of GDP) and strengthen last-mile connectivity. These public-private partnerships are crucial to India’s $5 trillion economy ambition.
Navigating Global Trade Uncertainty
External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar underscored India’s strategic autonomy in energy and agriculture amid rising protectionism. Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal emphasized regulatory reforms, strategic FDI, and balanced engagement with key partners like China and the EU to safeguard domestic interests while boosting export competitiveness.
International leaders added perspective. Sir Martin Sorrell pointed to the E7 economies surpassing the G7, while Christopher Wood of Jefferies praised India as “the best long-term stock market story.” John Kerry and Matteo Renzi emphasized India’s pivotal role in renewable energy and Europe–India trade ties.
Innovation and Opportunities
Speakers, including PwC’s Mohamed Kande and Times Internet’s Satyan Gajwani, highlighted digital trade, localization, and India’s T.I.C.K. strengths—Talent, Infrastructure, Community, and Knowledge—as drivers of growth. David Steinbach of Hines underlined that transparency and the rule of law will remain critical to attracting foreign investment.
The Road Ahead
With record exports, policy reforms, green infrastructure, and a focus on sustainable industries, India is positioning itself as a resilient, self-reliant, and globally competitive trade hub. As industry leaders like Vinet K. Chadha observed at the forum, the power of national reforms, state-level innovation, and international collaboration will help India navigate global uncertainties and solidify its role as a major economic force.
By Mr. Vineet Chadha, Managing Director, Combined Logistics Solutions Pvt. Ltd.
