New Delhi, March 25 -- India stands at a crossroads as one of the fastest-growing large economies in the world, yet it also has among the highest levels of inequality, with little movement seen in recent years. On paper, India's growth story remains strong even as global conditions are uncertain. According to the latest national accounts with a revised base year of 2022-23, India's real gross domestic product (GDP) grew by 7.2% in 2023-24 and 7.1% in 2024-25. The economy is estimated to grow roughly 7.6% in 2025-26.

There is no denying that these numbers signal a clear trend. India has sustained annual GDP growth above 7% for several years despite global shocks, supply disruptions and tighter financial conditions. Public investment in in...