India to become top three economy, host Olympics, land astronaut on the Moon by 2047: PM Modi

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday expressed confidence that India would achieve its ambition of becoming a developed nation by 2047, asserting that the country would emerge as one of the world’s top three economies, host the Olympic Games and send an Indian astronaut to the Moon. 

Addressing a public gathering in Chennai, Modi called on people, particularly the youth, to think differently, pursue ambitious ideas, and work towards building a self-reliant India. 

Earlier in the day, the Prime Minister urged young Indians to seize the “infinite opportunities” available in the country, saying the ideas and solutions they develop for a developed India would shape not only the nation’s future but also that of the world. 

Reiterating his vision for India ahead of the centenary of its independence, Modi listed the country’s key aspirations, including becoming a global manufacturing hub and strengthening self-reliance. 

‘Develop India by 2047. We will do it’: Modi 

“Develop India by 2047. We will do it ... Top three economy. We will do it. Self-reliant India. We will do it. Global manufacturing hub. We will do it. Hosting the Olympics. We will do it. An Indian on the moon. We will do it. Yes, we will do it. We will do it. Develop Tamil Nadu. Develop India,” he said. 

“I am the representative of Kashi. Quoting the great poet Bharathiyar, whose words inspire us to live fearlessly, I urge all of you here to give yourselves a chance to be fearless. Work on your ideas. Dream big, think differently, and be fearless,” Modi said. 

Highlighting the role of educational institutions in nation-building, the Prime Minister cited the Jaigopal Garodia Hindu Vidyalaya Matriculation Higher Secondary School as an example of how patriotism can be instilled in children alongside formal education. 

Recalling an initiative he had previously mentioned in his monthly radio programme Mann Ki Baat, Modi said the school had demonstrated how small contributions could make a meaningful difference. 

He referred to an initiative inspired by Girija-amma, under which every child saved ₹1 to contribute towards the welfare of the country’s soldiers. The initiative eventually raised around ₹40 lakh as thousands of children participated. “Small contributions can make a big difference; even a modest effort can create a significant impact,” Modi added.