Strategic Roadmap for Colleges to Contribute to Viksit Bharat 2047

The vision of Viksit Bharat 2047 represents India’s aspiration to emerge as a developed, inclusive, and knowledge-driven nation by the centenary of its independence. Higher education institutions, particularly colleges, play a pivotal role in realizing this vision by fostering human capital, innovation, and socio-economic development. This study examines the strategic role of colleges in contributing to national progress through quality education, research advancement, skill development, and community engagement. The paper analyzes key policy frameworks such as the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, which emphasizes multidisciplinary education, digital learning, and experiential pedagogy aimed at enhancing students’ competencies and employability. Furthermore, the study highlights the significance of digital transformation, industry–academia collaboration, entrepreneurship promotion, and sustainable campus initiatives in strengthening the institutional capacity of colleges. Using a qualitative and conceptual approach based on secondary data from academic literature, policy reports, and institutional practices, the research proposes a strategic roadmap that integrates academic excellence, technological adoption, innovation ecosystems, and inclusive governance. The findings indicate that colleges can act as dynamic hubs of knowledge creation, skill formation, and social transformation. By aligning institutional strategies with national priorities, higher education institutions can significantly contribute to economic growth, sustainable development, and the realization of Viksit Bharat 2047.