Is Data the New Oil and Are Data Centres the New Refineries? Ashwini Vaishnaw Explains
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Synopsis
India's digital landscape is transforming rapidly, with Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw emphasizing the importance of data as a valuable resource. Discover how India is positioning itself as a leader in digital infrastructure and technology, ensuring opportunities for local talent while attracting global investments in AI and telecommunications.
Key Takeaways
- Data is increasingly recognized as a vital resource for economic growth.
- India is striving for self-sufficiency in critical minerals and digital infrastructure.
- The rollout of 5G has positioned India as a global leader in telecommunications.
- Significant investments in AI are being made to advance research and development.
- India's UPI framework is being adopted by numerous countries worldwide.
New Delhi, Oct 18 (NationPress) Highlighting India's ambitious digital transformation strategy, Union Minister for Electronics and Information Technology, Ashwini Vaishnaw, referred to data as “the new oil” and data centres as “the new refineries.”
During his address at the 'NDTV Word Summit', the minister underscored the government's vision of Aatmanirbharta, emphasizing that India is on a path to become self-reliant in critical minerals and digital infrastructure in the near future.
“We need to ensure that the talent within our nation finds opportunities domestically rather than seeking them abroad,” Vaishnaw stated, addressing the audience.
Discussing India’s Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI), Vaishnaw mentioned that the government is “going big on digital credit,” as part of its initiative to enhance access to financial services through technology.
Praising the rapid and efficient implementation of the 5G network across the country, the minister noted that India's accomplishments have captured global attention.
“India's rollout of 5G has astonished the world. We now possess the second-largest 5G network worldwide, enabling connectivity to remote areas, with approximately 90 percent of the country covered,” he remarked.
Vaishnaw also highlighted India's expanding footprint in the realm of artificial intelligence (AI), announcing that the Bengaluru-based startup Sarvam is set to unveil its indigenous AI model by December this year or January next year, expressing enthusiasm for utilizing Sarvam's model upon its release.
The minister commended Google's proposal to create an AI hub in Visakhapatnam with a $15 billion investment, asserting that it will bolster the advancement of AI research in India. “It is vital for our nation to have computing facilities. The capacity to conduct high-quality research and develop AI applications will significantly enhance with these resources,” he noted.
According to Vaishnaw, 6G technology will entirely supersede the current 4G and 5G networks in telecommunications. “6G will be a completely different paradigm; everything in your hand will be integrated into that network,” he explained.
He emphasized India's leading role in global digital infrastructure, highlighting that over 13 countries are currently utilizing India's UPI framework, while more than 50 nations have shown interest in adopting the Aadhaar architecture.
Point of View
It is evident that India's commitment to digital transformation under the leadership of Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw is both ambitious and strategic. By focusing on self-reliance in critical sectors and enhancing digital infrastructure, India positions itself as a key player on the global stage. As the government emphasizes local talent and international collaboration, the potential for innovation and growth is immense, ensuring a brighter future for the nation's digital economy.
NationPress
18/10/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What did Ashwini Vaishnaw say about data?
Ashwini Vaishnaw referred to data as “the new oil” and emphasized the importance of data centres as “the new refineries.”
What is India's goal regarding digital infrastructure?
India aims to achieve self-sufficiency in critical minerals and digital infrastructure as part of its Aatmanirbharta vision.
How is India advancing its digital public infrastructure?
The government is focusing on “going big on digital credit,” enhancing access to financial services through technology.
What is the significance of the 5G rollout in India?
India's 5G network rollout has gained global attention, making it the second-largest in the world, covering approximately 90 percent of the country.
What future technology did Vaishnaw mention?
Vaishnaw discussed the upcoming 6G technology, stating it will completely replace the current 4G and 5G networks.
