EP-430 | Economist Surjit Bhalla's Shocking Take on Indian Economy | ANI Podcast with Smita Prakash

EP-430 | Economist Surjit Bhalla's Shocking Take on Indian Economy | ANI Podcast with Smita Prakash

Author: Asian News International (ANI) July 12, 2026 Duration: 1:43:40

Surjit Bhalla is an economist, author, and columnist. He was a part-time member of Prime Minister Narendra Modi's Economic Advisory Council. He also served as Executive Director at the IMF for India, Bangladesh, Bhutan, and Sri Lanka.


In this episode of the ANI Podcast with Smita Prakash, Surjit Bhalla shares his views on why India may not achieve its Viksit Bharat goal by 2047 if it continues with business as usual. He also says, "Senior babus who make decisions but are never held accountable are India's real deep state."


The conversation covers Prime Minister Narendra Modi, India's economy, the rupee, China, foreign direct investment, demonetisation, GDP, and the reforms India needs to accelerate economic growth.



00:00 – Introduction

03:03 – India's Economic Future

12:51 – Why India Overprotects Its Industries

16:42 – Lessons From Vietnam

21:07 – Viksit Bharat 2047 Target Realistic?

24:25 – India's Growth Story

36:43 – Why India Hesitates to Reform

42:24 – Agriculture and Dairy Sector

50:14 – China's Agriculture Model

56:39 – Manufacturing in West Bengal

1:01:15 – India's Next Window for Reforms

1:09:46 – Why Isn't FDI Coming to India?

1:13:51 – India's Job Challenge

1:21:13 – The Freebies Debate

1:30:06 – Demonetisation

1:34:27 – India's Middle Class Really Growing?

1:38:11 – Advice for Prime Minister Modi


Conversations that shape our world often happen behind closed doors or in the quiet moments after the headlines fade. ANI Podcast with Smita Prakash pulls up a chair to those discussions, offering a direct line to the minds of influential figures. Hosted by veteran journalist Smita Prakash, this series moves beyond the soundbite, creating a space where politicians, athletes, artists, and thinkers can explore the nuances of the issues that define contemporary India and global affairs. The dialogue here is driven by curiosity and a commitment to depth, allowing guests to elaborate on their perspectives, their decisions, and the personal experiences that inform their public lives. You will hear candid reflections on current events, policy debates, and cultural shifts, all through the lens of those at the center of the story. Produced by Asian News International, the podcast leverages a legacy of journalistic access and integrity, ensuring every conversation is both insightful and substantive. It’s more than an interview; it’s an opportunity to understand the motivations and narratives driving today’s news. For anyone looking to move past the surface and engage with the substance of politics, society, and human endeavor, this podcast provides a consistently thoughtful and compelling listen.
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ANI Podcast with Smita Prakash
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