India's second independence

A global leadership opportunity in the AI age beckons

- NITIN SETH

INDUSTRIAL REVOLUTIONS reshape global power dynamics. The first saw the rise of the UK and Europe with coal and steam power.

The second, driven by electricity and mass production, elevated the US and Japan. China emerged during the third revolution with electronics and IT, while the US surged ahead.

The fourth revolution we are in-the digital age, driven by the internet, AI, IoT, blockchain and Gen AI-is shifting global power dynamics yet again. While the US and China have taken the lead, India is swiftly gaining ground in this global race.

The essential nature of data and AI is democratisation, making it accessible to everyone, regardless of background or expertise. India stands at a unique advantage.

DEMOCRATISATION OF INFORMATION, KNOWLEDGE AND TECHNOLOGY

India's phenomenal growth is evident in its 820 million active internet users and a 78 per cent smartphone penetration rate. It accounts for nearly half of the world's digital transactions. Social media platforms are widely used for content consumption and creation. E-learning platforms have democratised access to education, and government efforts like Digital India have further democratised technology access nationwide.

STRENGTH OF DIGITAL NATIVES

More than half of India's population is below the age of 30. These digital natives are adept at adopting and adapting to new digital technologies.

They consume and create extensive digital content. And their growing affinity towards digital activities like e-commerce, social media influencing and digital education makes them a valuable resource.

DIGITAL PUBLIC INFRASTRUCTURE AND GLOBAL IT SERVICES HUB