India has transformed from a “lumbering elephant” into a “sleek, agile tiger” poised for global leadership, but its leap forward depends on investing in its people, said MP and author Dr Shashi Tharoor at the 21st convocation of the Great Lakes Institute of Management in Chennai.

Addressing over 700 graduates from the Class of 2025 across full-time and executive programmes, Dr Tharoor highlighted India’s rise as the world’s fourth-largest economy and the third-largest start-up ecosystem, boasting more than 140,000 start-ups and over 160 unicorns in sectors such as fintech, e-commerce and healthcare.

“What makes a nation is not just GDP or military might, but investment in good governance, gender equity, social welfare and the well-being of its citizens,” he told the gathering, urging graduates to confront inequality and promote inclusive growth.

Citing successes from the Mars Orbiter Mission to the global adoption of India’s Unified Payments Interface, he cautioned against complacency while millions remain below the poverty line. “Better governance is essential in this era of global instability,” he said.

Looking ahead, Dr Tharoor noted that by 2034, millennials, Gen Z and their successors will make up 80% of the global workforce. “You are the leaders of tomorrow. Strive to strengthen infrastructure, expand digital connectivity, reduce income inequality and promote lasting financial inclusion,” he urged.

The ceremony saw 16 gold medals awarded to academic and domain toppers. Director Dr Debashis Sanyal encouraged graduates to invest their formative years in “building not just careers, but character and contribution,” quoting Swami Vivekananda.

Academic topper Narendhar R reflected on the cohort’s resilience, saying the year had tested their limits but reinforced the value of community, perseverance and integrity.

Also Read: Shashi Tharoor launches BA in Philosophy, Politics & Economics at JGU