India Bets Big on Itself as Alternative in Global Tech Governance
Introduction
Today, when technology is setting the agenda for economic and geopolitical leadership, global tech governance has become a battleground for superpowers. For half a century, the United States and China have set the norms and policies governing digital infrastructure, artificial intelligence, data privacy and cybersecurity. But India has now emerged as a strong competitor, emerging as an alternative global power in guiding technology. Equipped with a strong IT base, a fast-moving digital economy and diplomatic prowess, India is creating a new paradigm that accommodates innovation, security and inclusiveness within the digital sphere.
India’s Digital Transformation
India’s emergence as a global technology player is due to its ambitious digitisation efforts. Through the flagship Digital India initiative, India has made tremendous progress in digitisation, connecting millions of citizens online, enhancing governance through technology and spurring innovation in sectors such as fintech, healthcare and e-commerce.
Unified Payments Interface (UPI): UPI has played a pioneering role in real-time payment systems in India, transforming financial transactions and inspiring other countries to adopt similar models.
Aadhaar and digital identity: With over 1.3 billion individuals enrolled in the Aadhaar biometric identity program, India is a global leader in digital identity management.
5G and connectivity: India is deploying domestic 5G infrastructure, reducing dependence on international providers of technology and raising its cybersecurity profile.
These efforts not only strengthen India’s indigenous technological strength but also lay a solid foundation for shaping global digital policy paradigms.
India’s contribution to global tech governance
With a combination of regulatory policies, diplomatic initiatives, and technological innovation, India is emerging as a viable alternative in global tech governance. There are a few areas where India is making a significant impact:
1. Data Protection and Privacy Laws
Understanding the importance of data sovereignty, India has enacted the Digital Personal Data Protection Act (DPDPA) 2023. Unlike the Western model, which is strongly inclined towards user-centric data protection (e.g., GDPR in the EU) or the state-led data policies of China, India’s model attempts a middle path. The policy preserves data privacy but enables innovation and economic growth.
India’s position with regard to data sovereignty and localization has had an influence on other emerging countries looking to create comparable frameworks to protect their digital ecosystems from foreign control.
2. Open and Inclusive Internet
India has been a proponent of an open and inclusive internet that addresses linguistically and socio-economically diverse groups. Unlike China’s censored internet or the corporate-controlled digital environment of the West, India promotes a pluralistic digital environment in which innovation and user rights co-exist.
It has been staunchly against digital protectionism and is committed to multilateral frameworks of internet governance, as can be seen from its engagement with organisations such as the UN’s Internet Governance Forum (IGF) and the G20 Digital Economy Working Group.
3. Artificial Intelligence and Ethical AI
India is increasingly asserting itself in global AI governance, advocating for responsible AI development. Initiatives such as the National AI Strategy and the AI for All Framework emphasise ethical considerations, transparency and AI access for developing countries.
By emphasising AI solutions to societal problems, including healthcare, agriculture and education, India is positioning itself as a human-centred AI leader. This strategy is different from the profit-based AI development model in the West and the surveillance-based AI model in China.
4. Cybersecurity and Digital Resilience
India is strengthening its cybersecurity framework to defend against cyber threats and cyber warfare. Through efforts such as the National Cyber Security Strategy and the creation of the Indian Cyber Crime Coordination Centre, India is actively working to combat cyber threats.
Furthermore, India’s collaboration with like-minded countries on cybersecurity policies – such as the Quad (with the US, Japan and Australia) and the Indo-Pacific Digital Partnership – reflects its dedication to international digital security.
5. Semiconductor and Technology Manufacturing
Given the realisation of reducing dependence on Chinese semiconductor value chains, India has launched the Semiconductor Mission with incentives for manufacturing chips. Joint ventures with foreign players such as Taiwan’s TSMC and US companies are cementing India’s position as a semiconductor hub.
This action follows global efforts towards diversifying the semiconductor supply chain and avoiding dependence on a single country, especially with geopolitical tensions over China's leadership in chip production.
India's Diplomatic Initiatives in Tech Governance
India's diplomatic initiatives towards building global tech governance are seen in its active role in international organisations and alliances. Some of its significant contributions include:
G20 Leadership: India used its G20 Presidency to drive international digital public infrastructure, promoting inclusive and sustainable digital development for all countries.
Quad Tech Collaboration: In partnership with the US, Japan, and Australia, India is advancing emerging technologies, cybersecurity, and AI governance.
Global Partnership on AI (GPAI): India is contributing to international AI governance through international collaboration aimed at responsible AI development.
BRICS Tech Cooperation: As a member of BRICS, India is shaping digital economic policies and strengthening technology ties with emerging economies.
Challenges and Way Forward
India is making remarkable progress in global tech governance, yet challenges remain:
Regulatory uncertainty: Frequent changes in digital policies create uncertainty among businesses and investors.
Lack of infrastructure: Despite progress, digital infrastructure, especially in rural areas, needs to be further developed.
Balancing privacy and innovation: Finding the right balance between user privacy, national security, and the growing digital economy remains a difficult challenge.
Competition from global tech giants: The US and Chinese tech giants remain the leaders in the digital space, and hence, it is essential for India to encourage domestic tech companies.
Conclusion
India’s emergence as a world leader in tech governance stems from its enthusiasm for digital inclusiveness, cybersecurity, ethics of AI, and an open internet. Powered by a mix of regulatory imagination, technological innovation and diplomatic exchange, India is offering an alternative model of digital governance that blends innovation and inclusiveness.
Grappling with tech policy and digital security challenges around the world, India’s contribution will be crucial in shaping a more balanced and equitable global technology landscape. Whether it can establish itself as a counterweight to hegemonic powers will depend on its ability to maintain regulatory stability, deepen digital infrastructure and forge closer international partnerships in the years to come.
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