An air of ambition is sweeping across India as we advance into the second quarter of what many are calling the ‘Indian century.’ People from various walks of life, including the young and old, urban and rural dwellers, students and professionals, are catching a whiff of opportunity following a year rich with noteworthy achievements.

To decode the whirlwind of enterprise, aspiration, and innovation expected in the coming year, the Economic Times (ET) sought insights from leaders and changemakers across diverse sectors. These fields range from technology, digital commerce, and policy to healthcare, banking, philanthropy, and beyond.

Several influential figures have penned exclusive contributions for this special edition titled “#25 for 2025,” while others have shared their perspectives through interviews with ET’s dedicated reporters across the country.

The Role of India in a New Era of Innovation

As we plunge into a new era defined by innovations driven by artificial intelligence (AI), India finds itself as a leading player on the global technology stage. The country is poised to expand its influence even further.

A burgeoning pool of digital data is fostering the creation of unique generative AI applications at home, while Indian-origin engineers abroad are busy engineering next-generation technological innovations.

Geopolitical Landscape and Economic Recovery

While geopolitical tensions continue to simmer globally, the aftermath of the pandemic that disrupted economies worldwide has begun to recede. India’s role in this evolving world order will be shaped by both its technological advancements and its steady progression toward becoming one of the top-ranking economies globally.

A clear indicator of this growth can be seen in the increasing production of iPhones in India, catering to both global and local customers. Notably, the latter group is projected to emerge as Apple’s third-largest market by 2026, driven by an evolving appetite for premium products linked to rising disposable incomes.

Market Success and Investment Trends

This year has also seen considerable market successes, with Hyundai India’s ₹27,870-crore issue marking the largest in the country. Despite some minor setbacks, the markets reached record highs in 2024, as millions transitioned to retail equity investments.

India’s athletes and cricketers have posted illustrious victories on the global stage. Notably, towards the end of 2024, an 18-year-old Indian prodigy became the world chess champion, further fueling national pride.

A Surge of Creative Professionals

Moreover, this youthful nation is cultivating a new generation of creative professionals making waves across various international platforms in fashion, film, art, and gastronomy.

Consequently, 2025 is expected to be a year of even more significant firsts, marking breakthroughs across India’s business, economic, and creative landscapes.

Conclusion

In conclusion, as India stands on the cusp of monumental growth and innovation, it is essential to acknowledge the collective ambition that fuels this journey. With its eyes set on the future, India is not only shaping its destiny but also redefining its role on the global stage.