India’s economic trajectory and democratic resilience are not just domestic concerns—they are global imperatives. That was the central message delivered by Andres Velasco, former finance minister of Chile and current dean of the School of Public Policy at the London School of Economics, during a keynote address at the India Global Dialogue held in New Delhi on October 5, 2025. Velasco emphasized that “the world needs India to do well,” citing the country’s scale, diversity, and strategic importance in shaping the future of global governance, trade, and climate action.
Velasco’s remarks come at a time when India is navigating complex challenges—from geopolitical tensions and climate disruptions to digital transformation and youth unemployment. Yet, he argued, India’s ability to balance growth with democratic values makes it a “beacon of possibility” in an increasingly polarized world.
Andres Velasco’s Key Observations on India’s Global Role
| Theme | Commentary from Velasco |
|---|---|
| Economic Scale | “India’s growth lifts millions and stabilizes markets” |
| Democratic Resilience | “India’s pluralism is a global asset” |
| Climate Leadership | “India’s energy transition is critical for the planet” |
| Digital Innovation | “India’s tech ecosystem is shaping global norms” |
| Youth Potential | “India’s young population is a demographic dividend” |
Velasco praised India’s recent economic performance, noting its 7.8% GDP growth in Q2 FY25 and its emergence as the world’s fifth-largest economy. He also highlighted India’s leadership in digital public infrastructure, including Aadhaar, UPI, and ONDC, as models for inclusive innovation.
“India is showing the world how to build digital systems that serve the poor, not just the privileged. This is not just innovation—it’s transformation,” Velasco said.
India’s Global Economic Indicators – Snapshot 2025
| Indicator | Value/Status | Global Ranking/Impact |
|---|---|---|
| GDP Growth (Q2 FY25) | 7.8% | Among top 3 globally |
| Digital Transactions (UPI) | 12.4 billion/month | Largest real-time payment system |
| Renewable Energy Capacity | 180 GW | 4th largest globally |
| Youth Population (Under 35) | 65% of total | Largest youth cohort worldwide |
| Startup Ecosystem | 110,000+ startups | 3rd largest globally |
Velasco also addressed India’s geopolitical balancing act, especially its role in the Global South and its nuanced diplomacy between major powers. “India is not just a bridge—it’s a pillar. Its voice matters in climate negotiations, trade reform, and digital governance,” he said.
He urged global institutions like the IMF, World Bank, and UN to give India greater representation and decision-making authority. “You cannot design global rules without India at the table. It’s not just unfair—it’s ineffective,” Velasco added.
India’s Strategic Global Engagement – Areas of Influence
| Domain | India’s Role/Contribution |
|---|---|
| Climate Negotiations | Co-leader of International Solar Alliance |
| Trade Reform | Vocal advocate for WTO equity |
| Digital Governance | Pioneer of DPI frameworks |
| Global South Leadership | G20 Presidency, Voice of developing nations |
| Peacekeeping & Security | Contributor to UN missions, regional stability |
Velasco’s speech was followed by a panel discussion featuring Indian economists, diplomats, and tech leaders. Dr. Arvind Subramanian, former Chief Economic Adviser, echoed Velasco’s sentiments, stating, “India’s success is not just about numbers—it’s about narrative. We must tell our story with confidence and clarity.”
The India Global Dialogue also featured sessions on climate finance, AI regulation, and inclusive growth. Velasco participated in a closed-door roundtable with NITI Aayog officials and young policy scholars, where he emphasized the need for “radical pragmatism” in policymaking.
India Global Dialogue 2025 – Key Themes and Sessions
| Session Title | Focus Area | Lead Speakers |
|---|---|---|
| Climate Finance for the Global South | Green bonds, carbon markets | CEA, World Bank, TERI |
| Regulating AI for Democracy | Ethical AI, data sovereignty | MeitY, IIT Delhi, Mozilla Foundation |
| Youth and Inclusive Growth | Skilling, entrepreneurship, migration | NSDC, UNDP, Andres Velasco |
| India’s Role in Global Governance | Multilateral reform, South-South ties | MEA, LSE, Brookings India |
Velasco’s visit to India also included interactions with students at Ashoka University and IIM Ahmedabad, where he spoke about the importance of “policy imagination” and “economic empathy.” He encouraged young Indians to think globally while solving locally.
Social media platforms lit up with praise for Velasco’s remarks, with hashtags like #IndiaGlobalDialogue, #AndresVelascoIndia, and #IndiaAtTheCenter trending across Twitter/X, LinkedIn, and YouTube. Thought leaders, economists, and students shared clips and quotes, calling his speech “visionary” and “refreshingly honest.”
Public Sentiment – Social Media Buzz on Andres Velasco’s India Remarks
| Platform | Engagement Level | Sentiment (%) | Top Hashtags |
|---|---|---|---|
| Twitter/X | 1.2M mentions | 88% inspired | #IndiaGlobalDialogue #VelascoVision |
| 950K interactions | 85% strategic | #IndiaAtTheCenter #GlobalSouthVoice | |
| 870K views | 82% supportive | #IndiaFuture #VelascoExplained | |
| YouTube | 720K views | 80% educational | #IndiaPolicyTalks #VelascoInIndia |
Velasco concluded his address with a powerful message: “India’s story is not just India’s. It belongs to all of us who believe in democracy, dignity, and development. The world needs India to do well—not just for India’s sake, but for the sake of a shared future.”
In conclusion, Andres Velasco’s endorsement of India’s global role underscores the country’s rising influence in shaping economic, digital, and democratic norms. As India continues to navigate its complex domestic and international landscape, voices like Velasco’s offer both validation and challenge—urging India to lead with purpose, pragmatism, and pride.
Disclaimer: This article is based on publicly available speeches, verified media reports, and official event coverage. It does not constitute political endorsement or prediction of policy outcomes. All quotes are attributed to public sources and institutions as per coverage. Readers are advised to follow official updates from the India Global Dialogue and participating institutions for verified information.

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