How Can Gautam Adani’s Call for Technological Self-Reliance Secure Our Future?
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Synopsis
In a compelling address at IIT Kharagpur, Gautam Adani stresses the urgent need for India to pursue technological self-reliance, warning that our future security hinges not just on protecting borders but on leading in technology. Discover how this vision could shape India's place in the global landscape.
Key Takeaways
- Technological independence is crucial for national security.
- India relies heavily on imports for semiconductors and oil.
- Adaptation to technological advancements is essential for competitiveness.
- The current era is described as India's second freedom struggle.
- Data sovereignty is vital to protect economic interests.
Kharagpur (West Bengal), Aug 18 (NationPress) Adani Group Chairman Gautam Adani emphasized the necessity for the nation to bolster its technological and economic autonomy, asserting that the security of our future relies on more than mere border protection.
Speaking to students and faculty at IIT Kharagpur, the billionaire entrepreneur articulated that the genuine battleground today revolves around achieving technological leadership instead of remaining merely low-cost participants in the global competition.
"In terms of technology dependence, we import 90 percent of our semiconductors. A single disruption or sanction could paralyze our digital economy. Regarding energy vulnerability, 85 percent of our oil is imported, and one geopolitical event could hinder our progress," Gautam Adani stated.
He elaborated, "When our data traverses beyond India's borders, it transforms into raw material for foreign algorithms, generating wealth abroad and enhancing foreign dominance. In terms of military dependence, numerous critical systems are imported, tying our national security to the political motivations and supply chains of other nations. This is the freedom we must now strive for: the freedom of self-reliance — the freedom of Atmanirbharta — to truly be free," the Adani Group Chairman underscored.
Reflecting on the swift global transformations, Gautam Adani remarked that the current technological revolution is unprecedented.
As robotics and artificial intelligence redefine various sectors, he cautioned that cost advantages could vanish instantly, jeopardizing India’s competitive edge.
Gautam Adani characterized this era as India’s "second freedom struggle", where companies and institutions that resist adaptation may fade away, while new disruptors could ascend to global prominence.
He told the students that the world has never encountered an industrial and intelligence revolution of this magnitude.
"What I can tell you is this — Tomorrow’s trillion-dollar disruptors will impose their will on others. Some will dominate the world in ways no company has ever achieved before," the Adani Group Chairman concluded.
Point of View
I believe Gautam Adani's insights underscore the critical nature of technological independence for national security. In an era of rapid advancement and global interdependence, our focus should be on building robust domestic capabilities while navigating geopolitical challenges. This approach is essential for sustaining India's growth and resilience.
NationPress
20/08/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What did Gautam Adani emphasize in his speech?
Gautam Adani highlighted the importance of technological and economic independence, warning that India's future security relies not only on border protection but also on achieving technological leadership.
How much of India's technology and energy needs are imported?
Currently, India imports 90% of its semiconductors and 85% of its oil, which poses significant risks to its digital economy and energy security.
What is meant by 'Atmanirbharta'?
'Atmanirbharta' refers to the concept of self-reliance, emphasizing the importance of developing domestic capabilities in technology and other sectors to enhance national security.
Why does Adani refer to this era as India's 'second freedom struggle'?
Adani describes this period as a 'second freedom struggle' because companies that fail to adapt to technological advancements risk becoming obsolete, while new innovators could dominate the global market.
What are the implications of foreign data control for India?
When Indian data crosses borders, it becomes a resource for foreign entities, which can undermine India's economic interests and national sovereignty.
