India's DPI can help build a tech ecosystem that the world trusts

Its design mitigates risks from a tech cold war and enables democracies to harness the gains of technological advancement

There is global consensus that the Fourth Industrial Revolution has ushered in a new era. At discussions of the World Economic Forum, Davos, most focused on artificial intelligence (AI) and supply chain disruptions. At the heart of these discussions are three critical transitions: the AI and machine learning (ML) revolution, green energy transition and supply chain diversification. These transitions have not only redefined the technological landscape, but have become central to the global geopolitical chessboard, influencing alliances, rivalries and power dynamics. As we step into 2024, the world is witnessing a complex interplay of nations vying for dominance in AI and other emerging technologies.

The initial salvo in this technological Cold War was China's systematic weaponization of technology, blending state-backed initiatives with corporate endeavours, which sought to turn technical dominance into a geopolitical tool. China's assertive use of telecom hardware, especially its 5G deployment, for geopolitical influence prompted democratic nations to reassess their Chinese dependency for critical infrastructure. The deployment of technology as a strategic weapon had raised alarms over data security, privacy and surveillance.