At the World Economic Forum (WEF) in Davos, Indian leaders across political parties set aside differences to present a unified front in promoting the nation’s growth story. Union ministers, Chief Ministers, and state ministers showcased a cohesive message of “India First,” underscoring the nation’s economic potential and collaborative strength.
India sent its largest-ever delegation to Davos, including five Union ministers, three Chief Ministers, government officials, and civil society representatives. Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister Chandrababu Naidu, a key leader of the BJP-led NDA alliance, emphasized the unity of purpose among the Indian delegation. “We may belong to different political parties, but here in Davos, we are all one,” Naidu said. “India First, our people first—that is our slogan.”
Naidu highlighted India’s economic reforms, demographic advantage, and strong government policies under Prime Minister Narendra Modi. “India’s brand is very strong under PM Modi’s leadership,” he added.
Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis echoed the sentiment, describing Davos as a platform where “cooperative and competitive federalism” thrives. “We speak in one voice, but we are also competing to showcase our states’ strengths and attract investments. Together, if all states grow, India grows,” Fadnavis said. He also stressed the importance of learning from emerging technologies and applying them back home.
Kerala’s Law and Industries Minister, P. Rajeev, representing a state governed by the Communist Party of India (Marxist), acknowledged the central government’s role in recognizing Kerala’s streamlined processes. Tamil Nadu Minister TRB Rajaa, from the DMK, also embraced the “Team India” approach, emphasizing that India’s global stature now allows it to influence global policy. Rajaa proposed the idea of hosting a Davos-like economic summit in India, specifically suggesting Jammu as a potential venue. “If India calls, the world will come,” he remarked.
Union ministers Jayant Chaudhary and Chirag Paswan praised the unity and global reception of the Indian delegation. Paswan credited India’s growing respect on the global stage to PM Modi’s leadership, which has transformed the nation into one of the world’s fastest-growing economies.
The WEF Annual Meeting 2025, held from January 20 to 24 in Davos-Klosters, Switzerland, is themed “Collaboration for the Intelligent Age.” India’s pavilion features eight states—Kerala, Telangana, Uttar Pradesh, Andhra Pradesh, Maharashtra, Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, and West Bengal—each seeking investment opportunities and showcasing their unique strengths to global business leaders.
Indian leaders at Davos not only portrayed a united “Team India” but also shared best practices among states, reinforcing the country’s commitment to collective growth and collaboration on the global stage.
