The fifth Kautilya Economic Conclave was inaugurated in New Delhi on October 3, 2026. Here is what the three-day event is about.

The conclave is organised by the Institute of Economic Growth in partnership with the Union Ministry of Finance. It brings together global policymakers, economists and industry leaders. This year’s theme is “Resilience in an Age of Flux”.

Vice-President C.P. Radhakrishnan opened the event. He said India’s economic strength depends on whether growth reaches every citizen and region, adding that “GDP alone cannot be the sole indicator of development”.

In his address, he cited key numbers. More than 590 million Jan Dhan accounts had been opened by August 2026. GST registrations rose from about 6.65 million in 2017 to 16.5 million in May 2026. More than 250 million Indians have moved out of extreme poverty.

He also pointed to 9.2 million self-help groups covering over 100 million rural women, and more than 34.6 million Lakhpati Didis, as signs of women-led development.

IEG president N.K. Singh and board of governors chairman Michael Debabrata Patra attended the inaugural session. The Vice-President called for stronger research partnerships between Indian and global institutions.