India at 80: Young, progressive, and forging a special partnership with Israel - opinion

India celebrates 80 years of independence. Ambassador JP Singh highlights India's journey from a fledgling nation to a global power, citing economic growth, digital transformation, and green energy achievements. He also emphasizes the elevation of India-Israel relations to a Special Strategic Partnership following PM Modi's visit to Israel in February 2026.

India marks 80 years of independence on August 15, 2026. The article, authored by India's ambassador to Israel, JP Singh, reflects on India's transformation from a nation born in partition and poverty to a global economic and technological power. It highlights key milestones: the adoption of a democratic constitution in 1949, economic liberalization in 1991, and recent achievements such as 7.7% GDP growth in FY2025-26, the success of digital public infrastructure like UPI, and the rise of a startup ecosystem ranked third globally. The piece also emphasizes India's commitment to green energy, with 50% of installed electricity capacity from non-fossil sources achieved in 2025, and its ambition to produce 5 million metric tonnes of green hydrogen annually by 2030. On the international front, India positions itself as a first responder in humanitarian crises and a voice for the Global South, as seen in its G20 presidency and advocacy for UNSC reform. The article concludes by underscoring the elevation of India-Israel relations to a Special Strategic Partnership following PM Modi's visit to Israel in February 2026, highlighting shared democratic values and innovation.