India's rich gold and diamond reserves can drive growth: Vedanta Chairman
New Delhi, Oct 17
Vedanta Group Founder and Chairman Anil Agarwal on Friday said that today, nothing can happen without India's presence.
Speaking at the NDTV World Summit 2025, Agarwal said I always believe that the world has progressed because of what lies 'below the ground.'
Addressing the summit's session on "Building Bharat: Purpose, Profit, Planet," Agarwal emphasised India's immense potential in mining and natural resources.
"The only way to move forward is to produce your own gas, copper, silver - anything you talk about is 'below the ground,'" he said.
He revealed that Vedanta currently fulfills half of the country's silver requirement and highlighted the need for larger companies to step up with a unified goal of taking India forward.
The Vedanta founder also spoke about the opportunities available for India's youth.
"Opportunities have come for our young people - and they are bubbling. Indian boys are now bubbling; what they wanted to do after going out, they will do it here now," he said, expressing optimism about the energy and ambition of the country's young generation.
Agarwal also pointed out India's vast reserves of precious resources. "The world's best reserve of gold is in India. The best reserve of diamonds is also in India," he said, highlighting the country's rich mineral wealth.
Reflecting on his own journey, Agarwal shared his humble beginnings. "I am just a boy from Bihar who didn't know anything. Khali tamannayein thi ki kuch karna hai (I just had a wish to do something)."
"I never sat on a plane or a double-decker bus. These were all dreams. I am originally from Rajasthan who later moved to Bihar," he recalled.
The NDTV World Summit 2025 is a two-day event. Today is the first day, and it will conclude tomorrow (October 18).
— IANS
Reader Comments
His journey from Bihar to becoming industrial giant is truly inspiring! Agarwal sir proves that with determination, anything is possible. Young entrepreneurs should learn from his story.
While I appreciate the optimism, we need to ensure mining doesn't harm our environment. Sustainable development should be the focus, not just extraction. Hope they consider ecological balance too.
As someone working in mining sector, I can confirm India has incredible mineral wealth. But we need better policies and infrastructure to extract them efficiently. Good to see this discussion happening!
"Indian boys are now bubbling" - this resonates so much! The youth energy in our country is amazing. With proper opportunities and resources, we can definitely become global leaders in mining and manufacturing.
Interesting perspective. India's gold and diamond reserves could transform the economy if managed properly. Hope the benefits reach local communities and not just big corporations.
We welcome thoughtful discussions from our readers. Please keep comments respectful and on-topic.