What inspired the team to investigate Shenzhen, China, also known as „China’s Silicon Valley”?
The team had been seeing posts about India becoming a superpower and wanted to explore what was happening in China, especially its rapid industrial and technological development. They were in Shenzhen for a project and used the opportunity to study the city.
What three factors does economist Robert Solow highlight as essential for a country’s growth?
Capital, labor, and technology.
What was surprising about the Air Quality Index (AQI) in Shenzhen when the team checked it?
The AQI was just 31, even in an industrial hub, which was much lower (and better) than expected.
What is WeChat, and how is it described in the text?
WeChat is an all-in-one app in China, described as a combination of WhatsApp, Netflix, Uber, PayTM, and Spotify. It’s used for messaging, payments, booking cabs, watching videos, and more, with 1.3 billion monthly active users.
Why are electric vehicles (EVs) so common in Shenzhen, especially among taxis?
The government has a lottery system for gas vehicle number plates to reduce congestion and pollution, making EVs more accessible. EVs are also cheaper to operate compared to gas vehicles.
How has automation transformed factories in Shenzhen, according to the team’s observations?
Factories use advanced automation, with giant machines producing goods at high speed. Only a few humans are needed to oversee production or work on assembly lines, demonstrating a high human-to-machine efficiency ratio.
Why is labor in China no longer considered cheap, and what makes the country competitive in manufacturing?
Labor costs in China are now higher than in many Asian countries. However, the country remains competitive due to government support, including high-quality infrastructure, fast clearances, and cheap credit for businesses.
What was Shenzhen’s status before 1979, and what changed its trajectory?
Shenzhen was a small fishing village with a population of about 30,000. In 1980, it became China’s first special economic zone (SEZ), attracting foreign investment, offering tax incentives, and fostering innovation.
What is the „sponge city” concept mentioned in the text, and why is it implemented in Shenzhen?
The „sponge city” concept involves creating green spaces, permeable pavements, and parks to absorb rainwater and prevent flooding. It’s part of Shenzhen’s urban planning to manage water efficiently and sustainably.
What lessons does the author believe India can learn from China’s devel The importance of good policies and deliberate investments in infrastructure, education, and technology to foster innovation.
The need to upskill the workforce to adapt to a rapidly evolving economy.
Embracing technology to revolutionize daily life and industries.
Combining bold ambition with actionable strategies to unlock India’s talent potential.
