1. Introduction

While the country was once primarily seen as a vast market for digital services and internet platforms, it is now actively contributing to global technology development through Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI), indigenous innovation, thriving startups, and investments in emerging technologies.

India’s technology strategy focuses on strengthening the entire innovation ecosystem—from digital connectivity and computing infrastructure to semiconductor manufacturing, artificial intelligence (AI), research, and advanced skills development. Government-led mission-mode programmes in AI, semiconductors, quantum technologies, supercomputing, cloud computing, and cybersecurity have significantly enhanced the country’s technological capabilities. Combined with trusted digital governance systems and growing international partnerships, these initiatives are positioning India as a reliable global technology partner and supporting the vision of Viksit Bharat 2047.

2. Origin and Intent

Twelve years ago, India embarked on a determined journey to make technology a central pillar of national development. Through strategic investments and long-term policy support, the Government launched dedicated programmes aimed at building capabilities in critical and emerging technologies, including semiconductors, artificial intelligence, quantum computing, supercomputing, blockchain, and cloud infrastructure.

The foundation of this transformation has been the Digital India programme, which significantly expanded the country’s digital infrastructure. Today, internet connections in India have crossed 100 crore, broadband access has expanded rapidly, and optical fibre networks have more than doubled since 2019. Affordable data costs and widespread internet availability have accelerated digital adoption across urban and rural regions alike. This robust digital ecosystem now serves as the backbone for India’s next-generation technology initiatives and innovation-driven growth.

3. Key Developments

A major priority of recent policy initiatives has been strengthening India’s position in strategic and advanced technologies. One of the most significant efforts is the Semicon India Programme, under which approved projects represent investments exceeding ₹1.64 lakh crore across semiconductor fabrication facilities, compound semiconductor units, and packaging plants. These investments are expected to strengthen domestic manufacturing capabilities and reduce dependence on imported chips.

India has also made notable progress in high-performance computing. Under the National Supercomputing Mission, 38 supercomputers with a combined computing capacity of 47 petaflops have been deployed across the country, supporting scientific research, weather forecasting, healthcare, and advanced data analysis.

To encourage indigenous semiconductor design, the Design Linked Incentive (DLI) Scheme has provided support for chip design, prototype development, tape-outs, and industry participation. Together, these initiatives are helping create a stronger and more self-reliant technology ecosystem.

4. Impact

India’s technology strategy places significant emphasis on strengthening the country’s innovation and research pipeline. Recognising that sustained innovation requires long-term investment, the Government has established mechanisms to support research-intensive sectors and emerging technologies.

The Anusandhan National Research Foundation (ANRF) and the ₹1 lakh crore Research Development and Innovation (RDI) Scheme are designed to expand funding for scientific research, technological advancement, and innovation-led industries. These initiatives aim to bridge the gap between research institutions, academia, startups, and industry, enabling the development of cutting-edge technologies and commercially viable solutions.

As a result, India is building stronger research capabilities while creating an environment that encourages innovation, entrepreneurship, and technological self-reliance.

5. Conclusion

India is steadily building a future-ready technology ecosystem through sustained investments in artificial intelligence, semiconductors, quantum technologies, supercomputing, and related fields. Mission-driven programmes are strengthening indigenous innovation, expanding research capabilities, and improving digital infrastructure across sectors.

Beyond infrastructure development, emerging technologies are increasingly driving industrial growth, competitiveness, and economic transformation. India’s technology landscape now includes more than 2,100 Global Capability Centres (GCCs), a rapidly growing startup ecosystem, expanding data-centre infrastructure, and deeper international engagement through digital public infrastructure and technology partnerships.

As emerging technologies continue to reshape the global economy, India’s investments in AI, semiconductors, quantum technologies, biotechnology, cloud computing, and digital public infrastructure are positioning the country to play a defining role in the technological landscape of the 21st century. While the journey towards Viksit Bharat 2047 continues, the foundations of a technology-driven future are already firmly in place.