Core Insights - The concept of "crossing the river by feeling the stones" remains relevant and emphasizes the importance of practical exploration in reform and governance [1][2][4] Group 1: Reform Methodology - "Crossing the river by feeling the stones" should be integrated with top-level design, where systematic thinking guides practical exploration [2] - Top-level design provides direction for grassroots exploration, while experiences from practical exploration can refine top-level strategies [2] Group 2: Practical Examples - Historical reforms, such as the household contract responsibility system, were based on understanding the needs and sentiments of the people [3] - Recent healthcare reforms addressing cross-province medical billing have improved access and satisfaction for citizens, demonstrating effective policy implementation [3] Group 3: Challenges in Implementation - Some officials struggle with accurately "feeling the stones," leading to ineffective policies that do not fit local conditions [4] - Issues arise from superficial understanding and a lack of genuine engagement with grassroots realities, resulting in policies that fail to address actual needs [4] Group 4: Importance of Grounded Research - Successful strategies, like the targeted poverty alleviation initiative, stem from thorough field research and direct engagement with affected communities [5] - Officials are encouraged to prioritize on-the-ground investigations over office-based decision-making to better understand and address community needs [5] Group 5: Adaptability in Reform - The environment for reform and public needs are constantly evolving, necessitating ongoing adjustments to strategies and policies [6] - Continuous learning and adaptation are essential to ensure that reforms remain relevant and effective in meeting the changing demands of the populace [6]

Group 1: Reform and Economic Development - Reform is a driving force for development, and as reforms deepen, the complexity of interest conflicts increases, making progress challenging [1][2] - The combination of top-level design and practical exploration has been a key reason for the success of reforms over the past 40 years [2][3] - The overall economic scale of China ranks second globally, with GDP expected to exceed 130 trillion yuan in 2024, and manufacturing value added accounting for about 30% of the global total [2] Group 2: Systematic Approach to Reform - Further comprehensive reform is a complex system project that requires both a "design blueprint" and a "construction blueprint" [3] - The core of top-level design is the goal system, which includes both long-term and short-term objectives that must be dynamically adjusted [3][4] - The 20th Central Committee's Third Plenary Session proposed over 300 important reform measures, focusing on institutional and systemic changes [4] Group 3: Addressing Economic Challenges - To address insufficient effective demand, macroeconomic regulation should be strengthened, establishing a long-term mechanism to encourage consumption, investment, and export growth [5] - Improving the scientific and standardized level of planning is crucial for enhancing the macroeconomic governance system [5] Group 4: Rural and Agricultural Modernization - The modernization of agriculture and rural areas lags behind industrial and urban modernization, necessitating the breaking down of the urban-rural dual structure [6] - The 20th Central Committee's Third Plenary Session emphasized the need for integrated development of new industrialization, urbanization, and rural revitalization [6] Group 5: Innovation and Technology - Education, technology, and talent are foundational supports for Chinese-style modernization, requiring comprehensive reforms in these areas [7] - The focus is on enhancing the national innovation system's overall effectiveness and promoting technological innovation to drive industrial upgrades [7]