South India is emerging as a frontrunner in sustainability and future mobility, with Tamil Nadu and Karnataka leading the way in renewable energy and electric vehicle (EV) manufacturing, said R Mukundan, Vice President, Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) & MD & CEO, Tata Chemicals Ltd.
“With Tamil Nadu and Karnataka generating over 22 GW of wind and solar power, and Tamil Nadu spearheading electric two-wheeler and auto component manufacturing, South India is well-positioned for sustainable growth,” he said while speaking at the CII Mystic South Global Linkages Summit 2025.
Sustainable industrialization is non-negotiable. Investments in solar energy, green hydrogen, and other renewable sources will be vital for South India’s progress. Strengthening EV infrastructure and fostering industry-policy collaborations will be key to enhancing the region’s global competitiveness in sustainable technologies,” he added.
Highlighting South India’s financial and economic transformation, Mukundan underscored the significance of seamless credit access and strong fiscal policies in achieving the region’s ambitious $10 trillion economy target. “Strategic investments and industrial expansion will be crucial in driving India’s economic momentum, while fostering innovation and entrepreneurship. Public-private partnerships are also reshaping development by ensuring efficiency in infrastructure, manufacturing, and renewable energy sectors,” he pointed out.
Additionally, the region’s vast coastline presents a tremendous opportunity to establish itself as a hub for international trade. The global trade corridor passes right through South India—leveraging this strategically can propel economic growth. “With its longest coastline among global regions, South India holds a geographic edge in trade and economic growth, said R Dinesh, Immediate Past President, CII & Executive Chairman, TVS Supply Chain Solutions Ltd.
“South India’s unique strengths in manufacturing, technology, and human capital give it a strategic edge. Its natural maritime advantage positions it as a key player in international trade and economic expansion,” he added.
R Nandini, Chairperson, Southern Region, CII & MD, Chandra Textiles, further highlighted the region’s economic contributions. “South India accounts for 31% of India’s GDP and attracts 40% of the country’s FDI inflows. With a highly skilled workforce exceeding 150 million and high literacy rates, it is well-positioned to lead knowledge-based industries such as education and human capital development,” she said.
A report, ‘2047 Southern Odyssey: Powering Ahead to a $10 Trillion Economy,’ was unveiled at the summit, outlining a roadmap for South India’s economic aspirations.