EDUCATION AS THE FOUNDATION FOR VIKSIT BHARAT @2047: BUILDING HUMAN CAPITAL FOR A SUSTAINABLE AND INCLUSIVE FUTURE

Abstract

India's vision of Viksit Bharat @2047 seeks to transform the nation into a socially inclusive, economically prosperous, technologically advanced, and culturally vibrant society by the centenary of its independence. Education is recognized as the cornerstone of this transformation, with the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 providing a comprehensive roadmap for developing future-ready citizens and strengthening human capital. This chapter explores how education can accelerate national development by fostering innovation, sustainability, digital transformation, and the integration of the Indian Knowledge System. It examines key dimensions including human skill development, education for sustainable development, artificial intelligence and emerging technologies, educational equity and inclusion, teacher education and professional development, research and entrepreneurship, industry–academia collaboration, educational leadership, mental health and holistic well-being, internationalization of higher education, and lifelong learning. The chapter also discusses the challenges that may hinder the realization of the Viksit Bharat vision and proposes strategic directions to address them. By emphasizing learner-centered, inclusive, and innovation-driven educational reforms, the chapter argues that a resilient and future-oriented education system will serve as the primary catalyst for achieving the aspirations of Viksit Bharat @2047 and ensuring sustainable national progress.