New Delhi: South India has all it takes to become a 1.5 trillion dollars economy by 2025 Vice President M. Venkaiah Naidu said in a virtual conference 'Mystic South – Global Linkages Summit’ organised by the Confederation of Indian Industry (CII).

Naidu said, "The culture of South India is one of its biggest strengths and should be used as a soft power to bring the world to its doors".

Naidu urged that in a post-pandemic world, India should take advantage of changing global trends in technology.

"Global trends such as automation, shifting supply chains, demographic changes and a greater focus on sustainability and health are assuming a new significance in the wake of the pandemic. For India, these trends could catalyse growth & become the hallmarks of a post-pandemic economy, " he said.

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He exuded confidence that South India has the potential to become the economic powerhouse of the country with its skills and soft power.

He said, "South India has all it takes to become a $1.5 Trillion Economy by 2025. The region is a classic example of ‘Unity in Diversity’, and combines manufacturing with services, culture with modern values and education with skills."

He further said that India is now at a decisive point in regaining its economic growth. Now is the time for all the stakeholders to join hands and ensure sustained momentum. The industry should work with the Government on various reforms that need to be implemented with greater vigour.

"I am pleased to know that the Southern States are amongst the top in the ‘Ease of Doing Business’ rankings in India, " he added.