Post-Pandemic Economic Resilience and Trade Transformations in India

Abstract The COVID-19 pandemic significantly disrupted global supply chains, exposing the vulnerabilities of India's trade networks and reliance on imports, particularly from China. In response, India initiated strategic measures to build economic resilience, such as promoting self-reliance through the Atmanirbhar Bharat initiative and introducing Production Linked Incentive (PLI) schemes to boost domestic manufacturing across key sectors. These efforts have strengthened supply chain diversification, improved trade logistics, and enhanced digital integration to reduce trade costs. Despite global challenges, India’s economic trajectory remains strong, with an 8.2% GDP growth rate in FY23/24, driven by robust manufacturing and public investments. The country’s foreign exchange reserves have reached unprecedented levels, providing a cushion against external shocks. Looking ahead, India aims to achieve its $1 trillion merchandise export target by 2030 through deeper integration into global value chains and by overcoming barriers to trade. This paper explores India's resilience-building strategies, growth prospects, and the long-term challenges it faces in achieving sustained economic development and global competitiveness.