The India Today Conclave South 2025 opened in Coimbatore with a compelling message from Raj Chengappa, Group Editorial Director of India Today Magazine, who described South India as the true economic powerhouse of the nation.

In his welcome address, Chengappa drew attention to the fact that although the six southern states account for only 20 per cent of India’s population, they generate nearly one-third of the national GDP. This remarkable statistic, he said, underscores the unmatched productivity of the region and its central role in pivoting India’s growth. The remarks were made in a press release shared by the organisers of the Conclave.

Chengappa also urged a shift in perception, saying the region should not be seen as “Down South” but as “Up South,” reflecting its leadership in development and progress across multiple parameters. He emphasised that the South’s achievements in governance, entrepreneurship, culture, and technology stand as proof that the region is a cornerstone of India’s economic future.

The two-day conclave, being held on September 8 and 9 in Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu, is centred around the theme “Ideas from the South, for the Nation.” It brings together leading political figures, policy thinkers, entrepreneurs, cultural icons, and innovators from across the southern states. The discussions will focus on the transformative forces shaping the region, from disruptive technology and economic opportunities to governance reforms and evolving cultural identities.

Over the years, the India Today Conclave South has emerged as a premier platform for dialogue, often sparking debates that extend well beyond the event itself. Previous editions have ignited conversations on governance, entrepreneurship, and technology while providing insights into the aspirations of the southern states. This year’s edition builds on that legacy, seeking to underline how ideas born in the South are not only driving regional growth but also playing a decisive role in shaping the trajectory of the nation as a whole.