- India has shown capability in developing key technologies but struggles with commercialization.
- Emphasizes the need for collaboration among academia, industry, and government.
Importance of Core Technologies
Definition
- Core Technology: Foundational and critical technologies that drive innovation and growth across industries and national priorities.
Key Characteristics
- Foundational Nature: Serves as building blocks for other technologies.
- Wide Applicability: Used in defense, healthcare, education, and manufacturing.
- Strategic Importance: Influences a nation’s economic and geopolitical power.
Examples of Core Technologies
- Semiconductors: Used in electronics and AI.
- Artificial Intelligence (AI): For machine learning and automation.
- Quantum Computing: Utilizes quantum mechanics for advanced processing.
- Cybersecurity: Protects digital infrastructure.
- Space Technology: Involves satellites and space exploration tools.
Economic and National Security Benefits
Economic Growth
- Investment in core technologies is essential for India’s economic growth.
- Global AI market projected to reach $900 billion by 2030; India’s investments through the National AI Mission expected to grow.
National Security
- Technologies like cybersecurity and AI surveillance are vital for modern security threats.
- CERT-In handled over 1.39 million cybersecurity incidents in 2022.
Reducing Technological Dependence
- Emphasizes self-reliance in critical sectors like semiconductors.
- The Semicon India program aims for domestic chip production.
Building a Knowledge-Based Society
- Investments enhance education and healthcare through initiatives like the Digital India Mission.
Climate Resilience and Sustainability
- Advanced technologies are crucial for India’s energy transition and climate action goals.
- Commitment to achieving 500 GW of renewable capacity by 2030.
Boosting Startups and Entrepreneurship
- A robust tech ecosystem supports over 100 unicorns and 157,000 startups, shaping global business.
Geopolitical Leverage
- Partnerships like India-US iCET enhance strategic positioning and global collaboration.
Challenges Hindering Core Technology Growth
Inadequate R&D Investment
- Low R&D spending at 0.65% of GDP limits innovation, especially in AI and robotics.
- Comparison with countries like Israel and South Korea highlights the issue.
Workforce Shortage
- Lack of skilled workforce in emerging technologies; only 51% of graduates are employable.
Dependence on Imports
- Heavy reliance on imports for semiconductors and advanced machinery undermines self-reliance.
Policy Inconsistencies
- Frequent policy changes and lengthy approval processes deter investments.
Weak Collaboration
- Limited partnerships between academia and industry lead to isolated research efforts.
Limited Deep-Tech Funding
- Skewed startup funding towards consumer tech, inadequate support for deep-tech sectors.
Measures to Enhance Core Tech Development
Increase R&D Investment
- Aim for at least 2% of GDP in R&D, creating a National Core Technology Fund for advanced research.
Establish Infrastructure
- Prioritize building semiconductor fabs and AI labs to attract global tech giants.
Develop a National Talent Strategy
- Implement strategies for skilling and reskilling to meet industry demands.
Boost Domestic Manufacturing
- Invest in high-tech sectors to reduce import dependency and support startups.
Create Unified Innovation Ecosystem
- Strengthen collaboration among academia, startups, and industries to foster innovation.
Focus on Cybersecurity
- Prioritize indigenous cybersecurity infrastructure and threat monitoring tools.
Leverage Global Partnerships
- Deepen collaborations with global tech leaders for technology transfer.
Enhance Accessibility in Rural Areas
- Ensure core technologies reach underserved rural areas through broadband initiatives.
Adopt a Circular Economy
- Integrate sustainability into core tech development by promoting recycling and eco-friendly practices.
Strengthen IP Framework
- Simplify IP processes to encourage innovation and attract foreign investments.
Encourage Gender Diversity
- Increase women’s participation in STEM fields through scholarships and mentorship programs.
Build Strategic Reserves of Rare Earths
- Invest in domestic exploration of rare earth minerals to reduce import reliance.
To become a technology-driven developed economy, India must address commercialization gaps in core technologies. Strengthening collaboration between academia, industry, and government is essential for fostering a thriving innovation ecosystem.