- Transformative Role of Technology: Technology is essential for economic and social growth.
- Challenges: Regulatory hurdles and adoption barriers threaten sustainable growth.
Key Drivers of India’s Tech Revolution
- Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI):
- Includes UPI, Aadhaar, and ONDC.
- Promotes financial inclusion, e-commerce, and digital payments.
- UPI transactions reached 16.99 billion in January 2025, worth over ₹23.48 lakh crore.
- Startup Ecosystem & Deep Tech:
- India has over 120,000 startups, focusing on AI, semiconductors, and space tech.
- Deep tech startups attracted around $10 billion in funding in 2023.
- AI and Automation:
- AI adoption is reshaping productivity across various sectors.
- The IndiaAI Mission aims to democratize AI access.
- 5G and Future Telecom:
- Rapid rollout of 5G is enhancing connectivity, especially in rural areas.
- Projections suggest 330 million 5G subscribers by 2026.
- Policy Reforms:
- Initiatives like PLI schemes and Make in India promote innovation.
- Simplified regulations for startups attract global investment.
- Sustainability:
- Integration of green technology in tech development.
- Commitment to net-zero by 2070.
Key Issues in India’s Tech Revolution
- Regulatory Uncertainty:
- Frequent policy changes hinder innovation.
- India ranks 63rd in the World Bank’s Doing Business Report.
- Digital Divide:
- Rural internet penetration remains low, limiting access to tech.
- 45% of the population lacks internet access as of 2023.
- Research and Workforce Challenges:
- Low R&D spending at 0.65% of GDP.
- Talent shortages in critical tech sectors.
- Cybersecurity Threats:
- Increasing cyberattacks and data breaches.
- Over 79 million cyberattacks reported in 2023.
- Dependence on Foreign Tech:
- High reliance on imported semiconductors and cloud services.
- Semiconductor imports rose 18.5% to ₹1.71 lakh crore in 2023-24.
- Ethical and Social Implications of AI:
- Risks of bias and job displacement due to AI.
- Concerns about digital monopolies and lack of competition.
Measures to Strengthen Technological Capabilities
- Expand Digital Public Infrastructure:
- Enhance DPI in health, education, and agriculture.
- Boost Semiconductor Manufacturing:
- Accelerate domestic chip production and incentivize startups.
- Develop Indigenous AI and Cloud Solutions:
- Invest in sovereign AI models to reduce foreign dependency.
- Enhance Cybersecurity:
- Strengthen national cybersecurity frameworks.
- Foster Deep-Tech R&D:
- Create research hubs for emerging technologies.
- Reform Tech Policy:
- Streamline regulations and develop ethical AI frameworks.
- Future-Ready Workforce:
- Strengthen STEM education and digital skilling initiatives.
Way Forward
- A forward-looking policy framework is essential for inclusive and sustainable technological growth in India. By addressing regulatory gaps and fostering innovation, India can achieve technological leadership.