As India moves towards becoming a developed economy by 2047, with a target GDP of $25-35 trillion. The vision of Viksit Bharat, or Developed India, has taken centre stage, reflecting the country’s aspirations for comprehensive growth and progress. To achieve this ambitious goal, the government has prioritised innovation, digital transformation, AI-driven automation, and skill development. Recent policy initiatives and budget allocations reflect a commitment to empowering citizens and propelling India to new heights in the coming decades.

A Comprehensive Development Strategy

The government’s multifaceted development strategy encompasses five key pillars: digital empowerment for enhanced public service delivery, establishing India as a global centre for research and development, equipping youth with future-ready skills in AI and automation, ensuring cybersecurity while fostering a safe digital environment, and prioritising data protection and privacy. By focusing on these critical areas, India aims to create a more inclusive, prosperous, and secure future for its diverse population while leveraging its demographic dividend to achieve sustainable growth.

Driving Growth Through Digital Transformation and AI-Driven Information Management

Digital transformation and AI lie at the heart of India’s development plans, with Budget 2024 prioritising these aspects. The integration of AI-driven information management systems into e-governance initiatives is crucial for improving efficiency, transparency, and accountability. These systems can automate data processing, derive valuable insights, and enable data-driven decision-making across various sectors such as healthcare, education, and agriculture. By adopting a digital-first approach powered by cloud and AI, the government seeks to streamline processes, reduce bureaucratic hurdles, and provide personalised services to all citizens. Initiatives aimed at promoting digital literacy, bridging the digital divide, and creating a robust AI-ready hybrid digital infrastructure will support India’s growing economy.

Fostering Innovation, AI Skills, and Industry 4.0 Adoption

To drive skill development in AI and Industry 4.0, the government is investing in R&D for cutting-edge technologies. The National Government Cloud, managed by NIC, offers public and private cloud services through a single portal for government projects. The recent budget increase for AI education supports skilling initiatives, benefiting one crore youth through internships, preparing them for the job market. Corporate involvement and CSR funding can be pivotal in providing full-time jobs. These efforts aim to build AI expertise, support innovation, and boost India’s Industry 4.0 transition. Technologies like IoT, big data, and robotics are set to transform manufacturing, enhancing efficiency and attracting foreign investment, positioning India as a global manufacturing hub.

Prioritising Data Protection, Privacy, and Security

As India progresses on its digital journey, data protection, privacy, and security have become paramount concerns. The proposed Digital Personal Data Protection (DPDP) bill demonstrates the government’s commitment to safeguarding citizens’ personal data rights in the digital ecosystem. The bill aims to establish a comprehensive framework for data protection, ensuring that personal data is collected, processed, and stored securely and transparently. It also grants individuals the right to access, correct, and delete their data, empowering them with greater control over their digital footprint.

Investing in cybersecurity education and infrastructure will help India secure its digital assets and create a trusted environment for AI-driven innovation and growth. The National Cybersecurity Strategy and the establishment of a dedicated cybersecurity agency aim to create a robust framework for addressing emerging cyber threats in an AI-enabled world. By strengthening its cybersecurity capabilities, India can protect its critical infrastructure, sensitive data, and digital economy from cyber-attacks and breaches.

Uniting for Viksit Bharat

India’s journey to becoming a developed nation by 2047, as envisioned under Viksit Bharat, represents a collective effort requiring every citizen’s participation. By harnessing the power of AI, innovation, skill development, and digital empowerment, India has the potential to become a global leader in the second half of the 21st century. This transformative journey presents an opportunity for India to showcase its capability to the world and inspire other nations to pursue inclusive, sustainable, and AI-driven growth.

Through a united effort of breaking down information silos and focusing on leveraging cutting-edge technologies like AI and Industry 4.0, India is poised to overcome challenges and emerge as a beacon of innovation, growth, and social progress. The government’s initiatives, coupled with the talent and entrepreneurial spirit of its citizens, will pave the way for India to achieve its vision of becoming a developed nation, where every individual has access to opportunities and can contribute to the nation’s growth story. As India embarks on this transformative journey, it is essential to ensure that the benefits of AI and digital transformation reach all sections of society. Inclusive growth and equitable access to technology will be key to bridging the digital divide and creating a level playing field for all citizens.

Views expressed by Saurabh Saxena, Regional Vice President, OpenText, India

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