During his address at Columbia Business School in New York, KT Rama Rao (BRS leader and former Telangana IT Minister) asserted that India is transitioning from being viewed solely as a low-cost labor market to a hub of capabilities and innovation. He emphasized that India produces approximately 1.5 million engineers each year, making it one of the largest talent pools globally. With a median age of 27 and 65% of the population under 35, India boasts a youthful demographic that is essential for driving long-term economic growth. KTR also highlighted the importance of digital infrastructure, which has streamlined operations across various sectors, enhancing efficiency and reducing friction. He reiterated that India's strengths lie not only in its cost competitiveness but also in its growing capabilities, making it an attractive destination for global investment. Additionally, KTR reflected on Telangana's rapid development under the leadership of K Chandrashekar Rao, emphasizing the state's transformation into a model of growth within a decade.