India is in an “exceptionally strong position”, supported by favourable demographics and reforms, Jim O’Neill told CNBC-TV18, even as global uncertainty rises. He said signs since the pandemic show reforms “are beginning to bear fruit” and growth has accelerated, putting India on track to become the world’s third-largest economy.
O’Neill added that India is uniquely placed, being central to BRICS while also “highly sought after” by liberal democracies as a partner. He sees a broader shift of economic gravity towards Asia, benefiting India and China.
However, he cautioned that energy remains a key risk, warning that “the last thing India needs is persistently rising crude oil prices”. He also flagged the need to improve basic education to fully harness its demographic advantage.
First Published: Mar 18, 2026 3:47 PM IS
