Rajeev Chandrasekhar, a Minister of State for Electronics and IT, highlighted India's transformation from being a support hub for the IT industry to becoming a hub of innovation in the digital realm. Speaking at the DNPA Conclave and Awards 2024 on February 6, Chandrasekhar discussed the remarkable technological progress India has made in the past decade. "In the last decade, India has witnessed phenomenal growth in technology. We have shifted from being merely a support system for the IT sector to becoming an innovative economy deeply integrated into the digital landscape. Whether it's artificial intelligence (AI), semiconductors, or web3 technologies, Indian startups and innovation are at the forefront of shaping the future," Chandrasekhar remarked. He emphasized that India and its skilled workforce are now recognized as valuable contributors to global technological advancements, moving away from the perception of being just a cost-effective solution or a back-office destination. This shift is significant in the evolving global tech industry landscape. Chandrasekhar attributed India's tech momentum to its supportive policy framework, noting that qualitative changes in policies have created an environment conducive to growth and innovation. However, he also pointed out a critical challenge facing the tech industry: the need to elevate India's talent pool to meet global standards. "To sustain our momentum, we must ensure that our talent pool, especially in areas like semiconductors and AI, is of global caliber. Research and innovation are essential to compete on the international stage," Chandrasekhar stressed. India's digital-first strategy is marked by a focus on innovation and research, with Chandrasekhar underscoring the importance of embracing technologies like AI while also investing in developing a skilled workforce capable of driving future advancements. Empowering Digital Citizens: Safer Internet Day Focuses on Online Safety