Chennai, July 2025
“Economic growth and equity are the two legs that propel a nation forward. Without equity, growth is unsustainable and incomplete.” This powerful observation by Dr. C. Rangarajan, former Governor of the Reserve Bank of India and current Chairman of the Madras School of Economics set the tone for SRM Institute of Science and Technology (SRMIST) national workshop on Achieving Sustainable Development Goals by 2030, held in Chennai on June 26 and 27, 2025.
Echoing the essence of the Sustainable Development Goals, the statement underscored the necessity of pursuing progress that is balanced and inclusive, making economic advancement and opportunity a reality for all.
The two-day national workshop, “India 2030: Innovate, Integrate, Inspire- The Path to Achieving Sustainable Development Goals,”sponsored by the ICSSR brought together over 700 research scholars, faculty, and students from across the state. The event aimed to foster innovative ideas, integrate diverse perspectives, and drive action towards achieving the Sustainable Development Goals by 2030.
Prof. A. Vinay Kumar, Pro Vice-Chancellor of SRMIST, spoke of the Chief guest, Dr. Rangarajan as a “true wisdom tree,” noting highlights from his autobiography, Forks in the Road, which explores developmental economics and fiscal federalism.
In his keynote address, Dr. Rangarajan shared his insights on “Macroeconomics, Growth with Equity, and Social Infrastructure”. He highlighted India’s current nominal GDP of approximately $3 to 4 trillion and projected that, to transform into a “Developed nation” by 2047, the country needs to maintain a nominal income CAGR of 11.47%, implying a real GDP growth rate of 7.4%, against inflation of around 4%.
He further emphasized the need for robust growth in the near term and underscored the potential of sunrise industries and artificial intelligence.
The event was mediated by Dr. A. Duraisamy (Dean) and Dr. S. Albert Antony Raj (Deputy Dean), with planning and coordination by Dr. K. Selvasundaram, the Organizing Secretary. The vote of thanks was delivered by Dr. M. Sivasankari, who acknowledged the contributions of speakers, participants, and the organizing committee. Special commendations were given to faculty members Dr. L. S. Abhilash and Dr. M. Selladurai for their key supporting roles in managing the event seamlessly.
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