Despite geopolitical uncertainty the Indian economy is poised for sustainable and inclusive growth, said Hindustan Unilever Chairman Nitin Paranjpe, while speaking at the company’s annual general meeting.

“The world today is characterised by uncertainty and chaos. However, amidst this incomprehensibility, the Indian economy appears poised to continue its path to sustainable and inclusive growth. We are building capabilities to cater to the needs of an evolving and aspiring India. Simultaneously, we are striving to ensure this growth journey does not negatively impact the environment and leaves no one behind. We are navigating short-term challenges to partner the nation’s long-term ambitions,” said Paranjpe, addressing shareholders.

India remains one of the fastest-growing economies, projected to grow at approximately 6.3 per cent during Financial Year 2025-26. According to IMF data, India’s GDP has more than doubled from USD 2.1 trillion in 2015 to overUSD 4.3 trillion in 2025, and projected to soon surpass Japan’s, and become the fourth-largest economy.

“What India may have lacked in physical infrastructure, having missed out on the first, second and third industrial revolution,s the nation is making up for during the fourth Industrial Revolution with the kind of digital public infrastructure (DPI) it has created. By 2030, 69 per cent of the country’s population will be of working age. With a median age of less than 29 years and the lowest dependency ratio, India will remain the largest provider of human resources,” he said.

Indian consumers

HUL stated that the Indian consumers demand are rapidly evolving.

 Consumers today seek holistic wellness. To meet this growing demand, we leveraged Unilever’s brand repertoire to launch Liquid IV, a science-backed hydration drink in India. We have also made strategic investments in science-backed wellness brands such as Oziva and Wellbeing Nutrition. The Indian consumer is evolving, seeking newer products, better experiences, and aspiring for more. As a business serving the needs of an ever-aspiring consumer and partner to a nation focused on its growth, we bear significant responsibility,” he said. 

Further, the company has increased its focus on digital marketing. Paranjpe stated that the company is leveraging technology to ensure a smooth customer experience online and offline.

“The recently established Premium Retail Organisation (PRO) exemplifies our focus on shopper needs and execution. The PRO exclusively focuses on creating demand and distributing our premium beauty portfolio through Beauty and Pharma channels, reaching consumers where they are,” added Nitin Paranjpe. 

Published on June 30, 2025