Should Indian Tech Firms Focus on National Needs?

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Should Indian Tech Firms Focus on National Needs?

Synopsis

Prime Minister Modi's recent address in Bengaluru highlights the importance of Indian technology firms focusing on national needs. With an emphasis on self-reliance, he calls for prioritizing local innovation and manufacturing to strengthen the country's economic growth and digitalization efforts.

Key Takeaways

  • Indian tech firms should prioritize local needs.
  • The vision of ‘Tech Atmanirbhar Bharat’ aims for self-reliance.
  • Significant growth in exports since 2014.
  • Bengaluru is pivotal in innovation and manufacturing.
  • Digitalization is enhancing accessibility to government services.

Bengaluru, Aug 10 (NationPress) Prime Minister Narendra Modi called upon the nation's technology firms on Sunday to place India’s needs at the forefront of their agenda, rather than concentrating on creating software and products for international markets.

This statement was made during his address at the IIIT Auditorium in Electronics City, Bengaluru, following the foundation stone laying for the Metro Phase 3 project.

The Prime Minister emphasized: “Given the current landscape, our primary focus should be on ‘Tech Atmanirbhar Bharat'. Indian tech firms have established a strong presence globally, developing software and products for the world. Now is the time to prioritize the needs of India. We must advance in manufacturing innovative products. Software and applications are now integral to every sector, and India should strive to lead in this domain. This is highly important.”

“In emerging sectors, we need to aim for a leading role. Within the ‘Make in India’ initiative, Bengaluru and Karnataka must bolster their manufacturing capabilities. I urge that our products adhere to the ‘zero defects, zero effect’ criteria—meaning no defects in products and no adverse effects on nature during production. I am confident that the talent in Karnataka will drive the vision of an Atmanirbhar Bharat,” PM Modi stated.

He noted that economic growth is a driving force behind the country’s advancement.

“Before 2014, India's total exports were valued at $480 billion. Today, they have surged to $850 billion. We previously imported mobile phones, but we are now among the top five exporters of mobile handsets. Bengaluru plays a crucial role in this development,” he added.

“In 2014, our electronic exports were approximately $6 billion; they have now risen to $38 billion. Automobile exports in 2014 were $16 billion, which has now doubled. India is now the fourth-largest automobile exporter. This growth reinforces our vision of an Atmanirbhar Bharat,” PM Modi remarked.

The Prime Minister reiterated that “the evolution of New India is closely linked with Digital India. Our nation is progressing towards becoming a global leader in AI and gaining traction in the semiconductor industry. India will soon produce its own ‘Made in India’ chip. Additionally, we have become a global benchmark for low-cost, high-tech space missions. India is advancing in cutting-edge technology, with the empowerment of the underprivileged at the core of this progress.”

He mentioned that digitalization has extended even to rural areas.

“Through UPI, over 50% of the world’s real-time transactions occur in India. Technology is serving as a bridge between citizens and the government. Approximately 2,200 government services are accessible via mobile phones. Through the ‘Umang’ app, citizens can perform tasks from home,” he noted.

“We are also investing in AI-driven theft detection technology. Our goal is to ensure that even the most marginalized individuals in society benefit from the digital revolution. Bengaluru is actively contributing to this initiative,” the Prime Minister concluded.

Point of View

This approach emphasizes the importance of self-reliance and domestic innovation, ensuring that India's technological advancements benefit its citizens first. As the nation strives for economic growth and leadership in technology, this vision aligns with the aspirations of a rapidly evolving India.
NationPress
01/09/2025

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the main focus of PM Modi's address?
PM Modi emphasized the need for Indian tech firms to prioritize the needs of India over international markets, promoting the concept of 'Tech Atmanirbhar Bharat'.
How has India's export situation changed since 2014?
India's total exports have increased from $480 billion in 2014 to $850 billion today, showcasing significant growth in various sectors.
What does 'zero defects, zero effect' mean?
It refers to the standards that products should have no defects and should not harm the environment during production.
How is Bengaluru contributing to India's tech landscape?
Bengaluru plays a crucial role in India's tech industry, being a hub for innovation and manufacturing, particularly in the mobile and electronics sectors.
What role does digitalization play in PM Modi's vision?
Digitalization is seen as a bridge between citizens and the government, enhancing access to services and promoting economic growth.