What Should India's Critical Technology Policy Look Like?

High Tech Geopolitics
Written By Saurabh Todi

Published June 12, 2024

Executive Summary

In the information age, nations' power relies on technological advancements. Critical and emerging technologies (CETs) significantly impact national security and economic growth, with each country defining CETs based on its security environment. Although many countries have comprehensive strategies for CETs, India lacks a cohesive approach, relying on seemingly ad hoc measures. This lacuna needs to be addressed.

This paper proposes a step-by-step framework to visualise the development of a CET as a dynamic process, determine how aspects of the technology life cycle should be assessed for prioritisation, and suggest what policy actions the government should take regarding CETs. The paper illustrates the proposed framework through the example of mRNA vaccine technology and Small Modular Reactors (SMRs).

Author

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Saurabh Todi
Saurabh Todi

Saurabh tracks the geopolitics of emerging technologies, especially in biotechnology and nuclear power. His research interests also include export controls, WMD issues, and the geostrategic dynamic between India, China, and the United States. He manages the Network for Advanced Study of Technology Geopolitics (NAST) Fellowship at the Takshashila Institution and is a consultant with Inklude Labs.

Saurabh Todi
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