In the last decade, India has undergone a “remarkable” metamorphosis in the digital and technological domains, as stated by Rajeev Chandrasekhar, the minister of state for electronics and technology, during the DNPA Conclave & Awards 2024 in New Delhi on Tuesday.
“We have transitioned from predominantly serving as a back office nation to evolving into an innovation-driven economy that encompasses entire ecosystems, whether established or emerging. The Indian flag, startups, and innovation are now ubiquitous,” he asserted.
India has solidified its role as a participant in futuristic technologies, a stance Prime Minister Narendra Modi is determined to safeguard, nurture, and perpetuate, according to his remarks at the DNPA conclave, organized in collaboration with the Network 18 Group.
DNPA stands as a prominent industry body representing the digital arms of India’s leading 18 news publishers, spanning print and electronic media. Notable members include Hindustan Times, Dainik Jagran, Dainik Bhaskar, The Indian Express, Malayalam Manorama, Eenadu Television, India Today, Amar Ujala, Zee Media, ABP Network, Lokmat, Times of India, NDTV, Express Network, Mathrubhumi, The Hindu, India TV, and Network 18.
“The Indian technological and innovative framework is akin to a rocket in orbit, now an irresistible force on the global stage,” emphasized the minister.
In response to inquiries about the success of Indians in the sector, the minister shared an anecdote, stating, “Upon assuming office, I led a delegation of 30 startups to the UK. Upon arrival, the UK High Commission informed me that ministers were eager to meet the heads of these startups rather than myself.”
“At that moment, Boris Johnson, the then UK PM, grasped my hand and inquired about the secret behind Modi nurturing such talented youth in India,” he recalled.
“The government has merely facilitated talent,” he reflected on his response.
Contemplating the transformations in India, he remarked, “This is merely the surface. The upcoming wave of startups will be profound and significantly more seismic than the current landscape.”
The conference will be succeeded by the DNPA Digital Impact Awards, acknowledging and honoring India’s digital initiatives that provide on-demand governance and services to its citizens.