BL Santhosh Advocates Rethinking Priorities Between GDP Growth and Livability
GDP or country’s livability, need to rethink priorities as society: BL Santhosh
Hindustan Times
Image: Hindustan Times
During a lecture in Chandigarh, BL Santhosh (national general secretary of the Bharatiya Janata Party) emphasized the need for society to choose between increasing Gross Domestic Product (GDP) and enhancing livability. He argued that while institutions like courts and hospitals are essential, a focus on reducing their necessity could lead to a more balanced society.
- 01BL Santhosh highlights the need to prioritize livability over GDP growth.
- 02He critiques the focus on increasing institutions like courts and hospitals.
- 03Santhosh references historical transformations to underscore societal evolution.
- 04He contrasts Western profit motives with Indian concepts of auspicious gain.
- 05The lecture was attended by notable figures including Punjab's governor and Panjab University's vice-chancellor.
Advertisement
In-Article Ad
In a recent lecture in Chandigarh, BL Santhosh, the national general secretary of the Bharatiya Janata Party, posed a critical question about societal priorities: should India focus on boosting its Gross Domestic Product (GDP) or enhancing livability? He argued that while the nation has made strides in healthcare and education, it has not sufficiently addressed the underlying issues of disease and crime. Santhosh criticized the tendency to increase the number of institutions like courts and hospitals instead of fostering a society where such institutions are less necessary. He invoked the philosophy of Integral Humanism, attributed to Pandit Deendayal Upadhyay, and discussed four pivotal historical developments that have shaped modern society, including the American and French Revolutions, Marxist theory, and Darwin's theory of evolution. Santhosh emphasized the contrast between the Western notion of profit and the Indian idea of 'Shubh Laabh' (auspicious gain), warning that an unrestrained pursuit of profit can lead to societal exploitation. He called for a shift from individualistic thinking towards a collective national identity. The event was organized by The North News and attended by Punjab governor Gulab Chand Kataria and other dignitaries.
Advertisement
In-Article Ad
Santhosh's insights could influence local policymakers to reconsider development priorities, potentially leading to a more balanced approach to urbanization and social welfare.
Advertisement
In-Article Ad
Reader Poll
Which should be prioritized for national development?
Connecting to poll...
More about Bharatiya Janata Party
Women Show Strong Support at PM Modi's Kolkata Roadshow Ahead of West Bengal Elections
Times Now News • Apr 27, 2026

Final Campaign Push in West Bengal Ahead of Assembly Elections 2026
The Hindu • Apr 27, 2026
TMC Confident of Victory in West Bengal Elections, Claims No Outsiders Post 11 AM on May 4
The Economic Times • Apr 27, 2026
Read the original article
Visit the source for the complete story.



