In the face of rising geopolitical tensions and the dominance of foreign technology, India is intensifying its pursuit of technological sovereignty. The country, which has historically relied on foreign tech and chips—especially from China—has recognized the urgent need to build its own capabilities. This shift is underscored by the government's commitment to invest $50 billion in enhancing tech capacity, aiming to foster a self-reliant ecosystem [577c6939].
India's tech landscape has evolved dramatically since the 1970s and 80s, when self-reliance was a core principle. However, post-1990s market liberalization led to increased dependency on foreign technologies. By 2022-23, India became a net exporter of mobile phones, with a net export bill exceeding $10 billion, yet Indian companies contribute only 5-10% of value addition in tech manufacturing [577c6939].
The threat landscape is also concerning, with India facing approximately 3,201 cyberattacks weekly, many of which are attributed to state-sponsored actors. This reality highlights the critical need for robust cybersecurity measures as the country seeks to bolster its technological infrastructure [577c6939].
Moreover, the rise of deep-tech start-ups, which often register in the US, poses a risk of losing intellectual property (IP) to foreign jurisdictions. India currently spends only 0.6-0.7% of its GDP on research and development (R&D), significantly lower than China's 2.41%, indicating a pressing need for increased investment in innovation [577c6939].
The historical context of India's past prosperity serves as a reminder of the potential that exists within the nation. As the most populous country in the world, India stands at a crossroads where it must navigate the complexities of a digital empire while striving for technological independence [577c6939]. This comprehensive strategy reflects a commitment to not only bolster domestic industries but also to enhance India's global competitiveness in the digital age, aligning with the broader 'Atmanirbhar Bharat' initiative [60ed032b].