In a landmark achievement, India has officially overtaken Japan to become the fourth-largest economy globally, with its nominal GDP reaching $4.18 trillion, according to government sources and recent IMF data. Officials from NITI Aayog announced the milestone, signaling the nation's rapid ascent on the world stage.

India's economy surged past Japan's stagnant growth, propelled by an average 8% expansion over recent years. This positions the country behind the United States, China, and Germany, marking a dramatic shift from its 10th rank a decade earlier. Prime Minister's economic advisors hailed it as a "defining moment," crediting reforms like digital infrastructure and manufacturing incentives.

Projections indicate India could dethrone Germany—holding steady at about $5 trillion GDP—within 2.5 to 3 years, potentially by 2028. Morgan Stanley forecasts the crossover as early as 2028, while IMF and World Bank models support a 2030 timeline at $7.3 trillion. NITI Aayog's CEO emphasized sustained 7-8% growth as key to this leap.

Driving factors include a booming services sector, rising exports, and a demographic dividend from 1.4 billion people. Initiatives like Make in India have attracted billions in FDI, with tech and renewables leading the charge. However, challenges persist: per capita income remains low at $2,700 compared to peers, and experts urge focus on jobs, education, and inequality to sustain momentum. India's trajectory promises greater global influence, from WTO negotiations to supply chain dominance. As one analyst noted, "This isn't just numbers—it's India's moment to reshape the economic order."