- Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw highlighted India's strategic investments in AI, infrastructure, and indigenous technology creation.
- The government has allocated over $1.2 billion to AI development while modernizing railways with high-speed projects.
- Despite global uncertainties, India’s approach to innovation and infrastructure aims to secure economic and technological dominance.
At the 25th ET Awards for Corporate Excellence, Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw asserted that India’s “pragmatic outlook” is driving its global rise.
Citing strategic investments in technology and infrastructure, He stressed that India is “not just a user but a creator of technology,” in reference
The government has allocated over $1.2 billion to artificial intelligence (AI), prioritizing computing power, indigenous startups, AI education, and advanced AI models.
Vaishnaw emphasized democratizing technology, ensuring its benefits reach all citizens. However, challenges persist—low private R&D spending, high import tariffs, and talent shortages threaten India’s AI ambitions.
In infrastructure, particularly railways, Vaishnaw highlighted modernization efforts, safety enhancements, and efficiency-driven projects. The government’s focus on high-speed rail, station redevelopment, and indigenous manufacturing underlines its commitment to transformation.
Despite economic uncertainty and global AI regulations, Vaishnaw remains optimistic about India’s position. He believes that a balanced approach—embracing innovation while mitigating risks—will be crucial in shaping India’s technological future.
The ET Awards platform formulated a critical narrative: India is not just competing but asserting itself in the global technological and industrial landscape, driven by calculated, long-term strategies.
Edited by Harshajit Sarmah
