India is the world’s largest country in terms of population with over 1.4 billion people. While China’s population is declining, India’s is growing by around 10 million a year. The country is the world’s fifth largest economy with growth of 7 percent. By 2030, India will be the world’s third largest economy – beaten only by China and the US. For many reasons, India is looking to Scandinavia.
At the G20 summit in 2023, India’s Prime Minister Narendra Modi had the opportunity to present his country as a major power. There he promised that when the country celebrates its100 years’ anniversary in 2047, when the British were kicked out, India will have an economy per capita that compares with China, Brazil, Mexico, Turkey and Bulgaria.
According to the QS World University Rankings 2023, Scandinavian institutions are among the finest in the world, with 26 universities ranked in the top 500 and three in the top 100. Five of Scandinavia’s higher education institutions have also been ranked among the 100 best in the world according to the newest annual assessment by Chinese company Shanghai Ranking Consultancy. Several Indian students have chosen higher education in Scandinavia.
India, with its rich history, diverse culture, and growing influence, is for many reasons poised to play a significant role on the global stage – also in Scandinavia.
India is home to a thriving tech industry, with companies like Tata Consultancy Services (TCS), Infosys, and Wipro leading the way. Indian engineers, entrepreneurs, and scientists are making strides in fields such as artificial intelligence, space exploration, and biotechnology. Their innovations will undoubtedly shape the world.
India with its massive population, and its youth are increasingly well-educated and ambitious. As this demographic continues to grow, it will contribute significantly to global trends in consumption, labor, and culture. The recent spotlight on Scandinavia results from the rise in international students attending its renowned universities.
India has already embarked on its first-ever winter expedition to the Arctic, marking a significant milestone. The Himadri research station, located in the International Arctic Research base at Svalbard, Norway, is now being manned during the winter season. Four Indian scientists are currently stationed at Himadri during this winter expedition. This initiative makes Himadri only the fourth research station in the Arctic to be continuously staffed throughout the year.
The issue has received a lot of attention in the Indian press. It is not only a symbol of climate research, but also a sign of India’s increased importance in the world. The Scandinavian region is known for its stunning coastlines, magnificent fjords, the allure of the northern lights, and its Viking heritage. The region comprises Norway, Sweden, Denmark and, in cultural contexts, Finland and Iceland.
From a purely financial point of view, Scandinavian companies will want to gain access to a market approaching 20 per cent of the world’s population. Scandinavian participants already collaborate with Indian companies and institutions in everything from technology and space travel to ocean management.
And Scandinavia has become the newest hotspot for international education – hidden among the snow-capped mountains and panoramic ocean views in Northern Europe.
These countries, also known as the Nordic countries, are among the happiest in the world and provide the highest quality of life. The Nordic countries, rich in natural resources, are famous for being home to brands like IKEA, Volvo, Nokia, Skype, Spotify and ABBA.
Indian culture, including its music, dance, cuisine, and cinema, has a global appeal. Bollywood movies, yoga, and Indian cuisine have already made their mark worldwide and in Scandinavia. This soft power will continue to influence people across borders.
India’s middle class will import Scandinavian products and travel to Norwegian fjords and search for the Northern Lights in the Arctic. Indian companies will also become more visible in Scandinavia – beyond the Indian food and yoga culture.
Research and development are prioritized heavily at Scandinavian universities. Denmark has the biggest population of research students, and the institutions there are affiliated with research organizations to aid in the quest for hands-on experience.
The Indian diaspora is spread across the globe, with successful professionals, academics, and artists contributing to various fields. Their achievements and connections bridge cultures and economies, fostering collaboration and understanding.
This form of behavior constitutes so-called soft power. In world politics, soft power means as much as military power. It opens doors and contributes to economic growth and political opportunities. At the same time, international politics is about positioning and strategic planning.
While India faces significant environmental challenges, it is also at the forefront of sustainable practices. Innovations in renewable energy, water conservation, and waste management will have a global impact.
The northern regions are the only part of the globe where Norway is a major power. The combination of sea and northern areas is the country’s trump card in international politics and in meeting with the great powers. This distinguishes Norway from other small countries such as Belgium and Switzerland.
India’s future depends on its ability to restructure its vast agriculture that could be hit hard by climate change in addition to addressing its conflicts with neighboring countries. Scandinavia has several special prerequisites that can interact with this growing superpower.
India is Looking to Scandinavia, written by Tor Kjolberg
Feature image (on top): Photo © Eye on Asia