WHAT CAN MAKE INDIA THE WORLD’S BRIGHT SPOT?

KIRAN MAZUMDAR-SHAW,

Chairman & managing director, Biocon

First, we need to focus on ease of doing business with a thrust on startups. Second, technology must be used for health, education and skilling. Third, science and engineering should be leveraged to push high-tech manufacturing and servicing. We need to make India the industrial research hub in Asia.

MANISH TEWARI,

Congress leader, former union minister

India needs to fix its politics. The template needs to change from an increasingly polarised discourse on every issue. Respecting diversity, building an environment where critical thinking, disruptive innovation and alternative viewpoints are welcomed are the building blocks of the bright spot paradigm.

JWALA GUTTA,

Badminton player

First, I think we need to respect each other’s opinions. We live in a democratic country but hardly know or practice our rights. Second, we need to take our politics seriously. The youth thinks it’s none of their business but they are mistaken. Third, we need to take stands for the betterment of our society.

ALOK NATH,

Actor, Bollywood

Indians need to be more disciplined about life and work. We, especially the media, should be genial and nice towards each other. They, at times unnecessarily demean the nation through presentation of news. If you focus on the good, the negativity will dim. The youth need to know and learn about being positive.

DEREK O’BRIEN,

Rajya Sabha MP, Trinamool Congress

Let us never forget our ‘live and let live’ tradition, despite attempts to disturb our tolerance. Next, retaining our equanimity as the world breaks into competing sets of paranoia and bigotry. Finally, getting industry and agriculture to hold hands to rev up our economy, creating jobs, optimism and prosperity.