VIJAYANAGAR LEGACY & INCLUSIVE GROWTH

NEWS- Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, during a visit to Hampi, stated that the ideals of prosperity and inclusive governance reflected in the Vijayanagara Empire remain relevant to India’s goal of becoming a developed nation by 2047.

CORE IDEA

“Prosperity for All” — Vijayanagar demonstrates how statecraft, economy, culture and social inclusion can work together for sustained growth.

KEY LESSONS FROM VIJAYANAGAR EMPIRE

1. Inclusive Economic Model

• Agrarian expansion through tanks, canals, and river-based irrigation
• State support to farmers, artisans, traders
• Thriving internal and overseas trade (horses, textiles, spices)
  Lesson: Growth must be broad-based, not elite-centric

2. Urban Planning & Infrastructure

• Well-planned cities with markets, roads, water systems
• Hampi as a multi-functional urban centre (economic + religious)
  Lesson: Infrastructure is the backbone of inclusive development

3. Religious & Cultural Pluralism

• Patronage to multiple sects (Shaiva, Vaishnava, Jain traditions)
• Temples acted as economic institutions (employment, land grants)
  Lesson: Cultural inclusion strengthens social stability

4. Strong but Accountable Governance

• Decentralised administration (Nayankara system)
• Emphasis on law, order and revenue efficiency
  Lesson: Development requires capable institutions, not just welfare

5. State as Economic Enabler

• Protection of trade routes
• Regulation of markets without stifling enterprise
  Lesson: Modern state must be facilitator, not controller