In this powerful TEDx talk, Umesh Rathod challenges us to rethink the role of education in building Viksit Bharat. A developed India shaped by innovation, entrepreneurship, and bold ideas. He takes us on a journey through the missed opportunities of post-independence India and asks: what if our academic system had been designed to cultivate creators instead of clerks? Drawing from current challenges, including limited industry-academia connectivity and outdated learning models, Umesh sir introduces a new vision, where colleges become startup launchpads, faculty evolve into mentors and market enablers, and students are empowered to solve real-world problems. With a focus on student archetypes, the NEP 2020 framework, and a transformative “5C” model, he lays out a clear path to unlock the true potential of academia. This is more than a call for reform it’s a blueprint to redesign education as the foundation of a thriving, innovative, and inclusive India. Mr. Umesh Rathod. He is an educator, mentor, author, researcher, and policy advocate, consultant deeply committed to shaping the future of India through education and entrepreneurship. As a teacher and mentor, he supports young minds with empathy and strength, teaching strategy, marketing, and entrepreneurship with real-world wisdom. As an author, he’s made his mark with bestselling titles like The fun of being in a startup, Startup Chanakya & Startup, Theories Examples & Activities. His work in promoting inclusive education, STEM initiatives, and a strong startup ecosystem is both commendable and impactful. This talk was given at a TEDx event using the TED conference format but independently organized by a local community. Learn more at https://www.ted.com/tedx