6 in 10 urban Indians want Social Progress prioritized over Economic Growth in the COVID19 recovery: Social Progress Imperative-Ipsos Survey

A new Ipsos survey in partnership with the Social Progress Imperative, conducted in 10 markets, among 10,000 individuals, shows majority of urban Indians (59%) will like Social Progress to take precedence over Economic Growth (41% prefer economic growth), in the COVID19 recovery. 

Global view is almost similar, with at least 53% choosing Social Progress over Economic Growth (47%).

In the US (52%) and UK (51%) – economic growth prioritization preference is a tad higher over social progress.

"The gap between Social Progress vis-à-vis Economic Growth is not very stark. Both work in tandem. At the same time, urban Indians want the interests of the citizens safeguarded and provided greater emphasis in the post pandemic recovery, while the economy too gets back on rail. The pandemic has been disruptive in many ways and has led to displacement and job losses. Need of the hour is to build strong messaging that links economic growth to social progress. The cause of demand renewal could be furthered if people realize that economic growth supports social progress," says Amit Adarkar, CEO, Ipsos India. 

Current Priority - Health & Wellbeing or Economic Growth ?                                                             

As the world continues to grapple with the corona virus, we asked citizens in 10 countries about what their govts should be focusing more on: health and wellbeing or economic growth.

Overwhelming view across markets – 7 in 10 globally (72%) and 6 in 10 Indians (64%) – want their govt to concentrate on health and wellbeing over economic growth.   

Particularly in Chile (83%), Canada (79%), Peru (79%) and Spain (77%), there is a strong consensus on health and well-being accorded utmost priority, in the current scenario.

‘Until the pandemic ends or is blown away and the curve flattens, urban Indians will like the govt to continue focusing on health and wellbeing even at the cost of economic growth. India has been treading with caution and has made no knee jerk decisions which could spark spread of the virus. And while the economy has taken a massive hit, the govt is in no tearing hurry to relax the guard completely, “ added Adarkar.