Indian Government Releases Plans for Advancing Critical Technology Sectors

The Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology has recently unveiled draft roadmaps aimed at driving indigenous research and development initiatives in key technology areas. These vital sectors include cyber forensics, quantum computing technologies, mobile security, cryptography, and Internet of Things (IoT) security. Compiled by the Centre for Development of Advanced Computing, the roadmaps are designed to address a range of challenges over the next few decades, leading up to the centenary of Indian independence in 2047.

One of the highlighted focuses is the cybersecurity roadmap, which outlines ambitions to establish “Social Media Analytics” by 2026, while aiming for completion of “Dark Web Forensics” by 2030. Ongoing efforts to detect child exploitation and human trafficking are scheduled to commence in 2027 and extend beyond 2047. Additionally, the development of GPS and vehicle forensics is set to be finalized by 2027 and 2029, respectively. Solutions to banking fraud and UPI payment forensics are targeted for completion by 2029 and 2030, respectively.

Within the realm of quantum computing, the roadmap indicates that research and development endeavours to construct quantum computers will persist until 2034. On the mobile security front, the focus is on fortifying “enterprise-grade” security systems and creating an “indigenous system for secure [operating systems] and mobile device hardware.”

While the roadmaps project activities extending well into 2047 and beyond, the cryptography roadmap emphasises the completion of domestic digital encryption development targets. Specifically, goals for ‘asymmetric cryptography’ and for IoT devices are slated to be accomplished by 2028-33, including the implementation of “quantum-resistant cryptography” to withstand exponentially stronger decryption efforts.

The release of these draft roadmaps signifies a concerted effort by the Indian government to lay the groundwork for the nation’s technological advancement and secure its position as a global leader in critical technology sectors. With a clear strategic vision in place, India is poised to make significant strides in cyber forensics, quantum computing, mobile security, cryptography, and IoT security in the coming years. As these plans come to fruition, they are expected to contribute to India’s innovation landscape and bolster the nation’s standing in the global technology arena.