Significance of Technology Policy reforms for India

Source: The post focus of global technology policy has been created, based on the article “Beyond the manifestos, technology challenges for India’s next government” published in “Indian Express” on 1st May 2024.

UPSC Syllabus Topic: GS Paper 3-Science and technology-indigenization of technology and developing new technology.

Conext: The article discusses how important it is for India’s next government to update and enhance its technology policies and capabilities. It highlights how major countries like China and the US are focusing on technology to boost their economies and geopolitical influence. Significance of Technology Policy reforms for India

For details information on What Indian scientists want from the upcoming government read here

What is the current focus of global technology policy?

China’s Technological Ambitions: China is intensifying efforts to master advanced technologies such as electric vehicles, commercial spaceflight, and quantum technology. President Xi Jinping emphasizes technological progress to surpass the US and boost China’s global standing.

US Strategic Initiatives: The US, under President Biden, has enacted major legislation like the Infrastructure Investment Act and the CHIPS Act to regain leadership in high-tech sectors. These acts are part of a broader strategy to limit Chinese access to American technology and strengthen US technological supremacy globally. Additionally, the US is forming strategic alliances, such as the Quadrilateral forum with Australia, India, and Japan, and the Chip-4 alliance with Japan, South Korea, and Taiwan, to consolidate its tech leadership.

Europe’s Response: French President Macron advocates for increased investments in AI, quantum computing, and green technologies to close the gap with the US and China.

What has been India’s approach?

Digital Technology for Services: India has leveraged digital technologies extensively to enhance the efficiency of government service delivery to the public.

Renewable Energy Focus: The Indian government has emphasized investments in renewable energy sources as a key part of its development strategy.

Semiconductor Production: There has been a concerted effort to place India back on the map in the semiconductor industry, recognizing its strategic and economic importance.

AI Development Strategy: India is accelerating its capabilities in artificial intelligence, aiming to keep pace with global advancements and applications in various sectors.

Strategic International Partnerships: Technology plays a pivotal role in India’s foreign policy, especially in strengthening strategic partnerships with the U.S. and Europe.

What does India need to do Next?

1. India needs a comprehensive reform of its technology departments to align with current technological imperatives.
2. There’s a critical need to significantly boost national expenditure on research and development to foster innovation and stay competitive globally.
3. Greater participation from the private sector in research, development, and production of modern technologies is essential.
4. The government must modernize science and technology monopolies that were established post-Independence to meet the demands of a technology-driven economy and national security.

Question for practice:

Discuss India’s current approach to technology policy and the recommended steps it needs to take for enhancing its technological capabilities in line with global trends.