The chapter discusses the history of manufacturing in India and China. It highlights how both countries looked inward after gaining independence, but while their economies largely stood still, neighboring East Asian Tigers boomed by embracing technology and having cheap labor. Ultimately, China's economic model was influenced by Singapore's authoritarianism and anti-corruption measures which led to explosive growth since opening up in 1978 with almost 800 million people being pulled out of poverty.

India has experienced significant export growth, focusing on high-skilled manufacturing and services such as software, business-process outsourcing, and engineering goods. The digitization of the economy is providing opportunities for small entrepreneurs to expand their businesses through apps like Udaan while also transforming stagnant industries with access to smartphones and cheap data.

India's booming population, set to surpass China over the next decade, is an advantage for India as it has around three decades before its population too is considered old. If India plays its cards right, 500 million people will enter the middle-income class over the next decade fueling massive domestic demand and filling in gaps left behind by China.

India's import tariffs have been increasing since 2018, and the import process remains convoluted and time-consuming due to customs disputes. The Make in India campaign may only benefit politically connected firms, while high tariffs could restrict exports.

India is the largest supplier of human hair due to its tradition of sacrificing hair at temples and saving it from households. However, companies face challenges in exporting value-added products as they need to import items like keratin glue and lace, which are subject to high taxes meant for protecting local markets. Lowering importation barriers could help grow the industry further.

India's job market is dominated by self-employment and casual labor, with only 10% of workers earning a steady salary. The country also has one of the lowest female participation rates in the workforce, which could hinder its progress compared to other countries like Bangladesh that are playing to their strengths.

The state of Tamil Nadu has seen an increase in female participation rates due to the establishment of manufacturing facilities, with some factories being run entirely by women. While gender and caste inequalities still exist, secure work may offer a way out for many women. The Indian government has taken steps to make doing business easier but will need to do more if it wants to compete globally.

India cannot simply replicate China's model of manufacturing due to the rise in automation. However, India will continue to develop its own processes and become a major hub for sourcing and developing products for the world market while ensuring that society works for everyone by giving them a stake in it. The focus should be on creating policies that show people how they can have a better future, not just for themselves but also their children.