A Technology Mission represents a concerted effort aimed at harnessing the power of innovation and advancing technological capabilities to address pressing societal challenges and drive economic growth. This strategic initiative typically involves government support, private sector collaboration, and academic expertise to foster research, development, and deployment of cutting-edge technologies across various sectors. By fostering a culture of innovation and providing targeted resources, a Technology Mission seeks to accelerate progress, spur job creation, enhance competitiveness, and ultimately improve quality of life for citizens. Whether focusing on renewable energy, healthcare solutions, digital infrastructure, or other critical areas, a Technology Mission embodies a forward-thinking approach to harnessing the potential of technology for the betterment of society.
India’s Computerization Program: Key Milestones
- 1955-1970: Exploratory Phase
- Establishment of Indian Institutes of Technology (IITs).
- Early efforts in designing and producing computers.
- Appointment of Bhabha Committee (1963) highlighting the importance of electronics and computers.
- The establishment of the Department of Electronics (DoE) in 1970, laid the groundwork for future development.
- 1971-1978: Emphasis on Indigenous Development
- DoE focuses on the self-reliant development of computers.
- Electronics Corporation of India Ltd. (ECIL) was established to design and develop computers with significant local components.
- R&D projects initiated with UNDP assistance.
- 1978: IBM Exit and Private Sector Entry
- IBM asked to reduce equity and manufacture IBM 360 series computers, leading to its exit from India.
- The government opens computer manufacturing to the private sector.
- Companies begin making minicomputers using imported microprocessors.
- 1984-1986: Liberalization and Policy Reforms
- Removal of controls on the computing hardware industry and imports.
- Reduction in import duties, enabling faster adoption of computers.
- Recognition of software development as an industry with tax concessions.
- Entry of foreign manufacturers for quality assurance and competitive pricing.
- Encouragement of computer use in offices and schools.
- 1991: Economic Liberalization and Software Technology Parks
- India faces a financial crisis and receives IMF assistance.
- The economy opens up, leading to the establishment of Software Technology Parks (STPs) with satellite communication links.
- Indian software companies gain the ability to develop applications for international clients from India.
- 1998: Proactive Measures for IT Growth
- The government under Atal Bihari Vajpayee emphasizes IT as India’s future.
- IT task force recommends policy changes, including tax holidays on export earnings for software services companies.
- Import duty exemption on computers and software packages for exporting software.
- Multinational companies are encouraged to establish software development and R&D centres.
- Software and services exports grow significantly, contributing 6.4% of GDP and employing 2.4 million professionals by 2010.
Despite initial challenges, government initiatives in the 1970s provided the foundation for the later success of the private hardware and software industry in India, leading to significant contributions to the country’s economy and global IT leadership.
FAQs
1. What is a Technology Mission?
A: A Technology Mission is a strategic initiative launched by governments or organizations aimed at fostering innovation, research, and development in specific technological domains to address critical societal or economic challenges.
2. What are the primary objectives of a Technology Mission?
A: The primary objectives of a Technology Mission typically include:
- Accelerating technological advancements in key sectors.
- Stimulating economic growth and competitiveness.
- Solving complex societal problems through innovation.
- Fostering collaboration between academia, industry, and government.
- Facilitating the adoption and deployment of cutting-edge technologies.
3. How are Technology Missions typically funded?
A: Technology Missions are often funded through a combination of government allocations, public-private partnerships, grants, venture capital investments, and contributions from international organizations or philanthropic entities.
4. What are some examples of successful Technology Missions?
A: Examples of successful Technology Missions include:
- India’s “Digital India” initiative aimed at transforming India into a digitally empowered society and knowledge economy.
- NASA’s “Artemis” program focused on returning humans to the Moon and eventually establishing a sustainable human presence on Mars.
- China’s “Made in China 2025” plan to upgrade the country’s manufacturing capabilities through innovation and technology adoption.
5. How do Technology Missions impact society?
A: Technology Missions have far-reaching impacts on society, including:
- Driving job creation and economic growth by fostering innovation and entrepreneurship.
- Improving quality of life through the development of advanced healthcare, education, and infrastructure technologies.
- Addressing environmental challenges by promoting sustainable technologies and practices.
- Enhancing national security through advancements in defense and cybersecurity.
- Narrowing the digital divide by increasing access to technology and digital literacy programs.
In case you still have your doubts, contact us on 9811333901.
For UPSC Prelims Resources, Click here
For Daily Updates and Study Material:
Join our Telegram Channel – Edukemy for IAS
- 1. Learn through Videos – here
- 2. Be Exam Ready by Practicing Daily MCQs – here
- 3. Daily Newsletter – Get all your Current Affairs Covered – here
- 4. Mains Answer Writing Practice – here
