23 Jun 2023
India’s tech ecosystem has demonstrated remarkable resilience in recent years, showcasing consistent growth and emerging as a trusted leader in the pursuit of future technologies. With a Global Innovation Index (GII) ranking of 40th in 2022, India is increasingly recognized as a prime destination for investments in technological advancements, innovations, and research and development (R&D).
Role of Technology
Technology has played a pivotal role in driving India’s economic growth and improving the overall quality of life in society. Various sectors have successfully integrated technological innovations, resulting in enhanced efficiency, productivity, and reduced production costs while elevating product quality. India’s growing enthusiasm for tech adoption has attracted significant foreign investments, leading to job creation, further bolstered by skill development initiatives.
Following are some key Imperatives for future technology growth in India:
Education and Inclusivity
Promoting inclusive growth through collaborative efforts will be crucial for advancing technological progress across diverse sections of society. Education plays a vital role in bridging gaps between different segments, enabling societies to overcome historical divides.
Digital Infrastructure
Urban India has been at the forefront of digital transformation, boasting excellent infrastructure and connectivity. Extending this urban model to rural areas, encompassing high-speed internet access, improved broadband connectivity, and digital literacy and education, represents a groundbreaking journey India has embarked upon. Prime Minister Narendra Modi launched 5G services on October 1, 2022, which are now available in over 500 Indian cities.
Digital Literacy and Skill Development
In the digital age, having a digitally literate workforce is essential. Promoting digital skills training from early education to higher levels ensures inclusive participation in India’s growth story. Bridging the digital divide, particularly between rural and urban areas, by ensuring affordability across classes and regions, remains crucial. Fostering STEM education (Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics) in educational institutes and bridging the gender divide in STEM will play a pivotal role in this endeavour.
Entrepreneurship and Innovation
India boasts a vibrant and rapidly growing start-up ecosystem spanning various sectors, including agriculture, manufacturing, and e-commerce. Encouraging this ecosystem through R&D, capital provisions, and incubation support will foster entrepreneurship and drive innovative solutions across industries.
The Role of Government and Industry
Collaboration between the government, industry, and academia is of paramount importance in aligning technology with national priorities such as agriculture, healthcare, manufacturing, and financial services. Public-private partnerships, along with global collaborations, facilitate crucial knowledge exchange, resource pooling, and joint research initiatives. Increased investment in research and development (R&D) is critical for driving future technology growth and advancing sustainability goals. Such collaborations and partnerships will expedite R&D efforts in fields like artificial intelligence and machine learning, Internet of Things (IoT), biotechnology, nanotechnology, cloud computing, and renewable energy.
Promoting Tech-Enabled Development
Establishing an enabling regulatory framework is essential for fostering technological advancement. This framework should encompass provisions for cybersecurity, data privacy, consumer protection, and supportive policies that promote innovation. Implementing robust cybersecurity frameworks, data protection laws, and awareness campaigns to build trust and safeguard sensitive information in the digital ecosystem are imperative for future technology growth. India’s policy-driven innovation landscape, coupled with strong intellectual property protection, enhances technological development by safeguarding the interests of innovators. A robust dispute settlement system will contribute to the rising number of patents and trademarks, stimulating creativity and innovation.
The Government of India remains committed to creating an enabling environment for future technology growth and driving the nation’s progress. By embracing future technologies, Indian industries can leverage opportunities to promote sustainable development, including energy-efficient technologies, optimized resource utilization, eco-friendly transportation, and the promotion of a circular economy that prioritizes the well-being of society as a whole.