Ashwini Vaishnaw has been appointed to lead the Railways, Electronics & IT, and the Information & Broadcasting (I&B) ministries.
His role in the Electronics & IT ministry, in particular, comes with a robust agenda to propel the nation into a new era of technological advancement.
The top five priorities for the Electronics & IT ministry:
1. Integration of Artificial Intelligence: The industry has been aggressively talking about
Artificial intelligence (AI) integration into various sectors. So, the ministry will aim to transform AI into a digital good, enhancing its practical applications across industries. This involves creating a conducive environment for AI adoption and developing regulatory frameworks to leverage AI for economic and social benefits.
2. Advancing the Semiconductor Mission: The
semiconductor industry in India has seen promising beginnings, with significant investments from companies like Micron and Tata. Vaishnaw's focus will be on the second phase of this mission. This effort aims to position India as a global hub for semiconductor production, reducing dependency on imports and boosting exports.
3. Electronics Manufacturing and Export: India's electronics manufacturing sector, particularly the mobile phone industry, has made significant strides. The next step is to transition from import substitution to export-oriented manufacturing. This shift is not limited to mobile phones but extends to IT hardware and telecom technologies.
4. Data Protection and Digital Legislation: The Digital Personal Data Protection (DPDP) Act has been ratified, but the implementation rules are still pending. Establishing a robust framework for data security is urgent, as well as ensuring that personal data is protected and that businesses comply with stringent data protection standards.
5. Overhauling the Information Technology (IT) Act: The Information Technology (IT) Act has been in place for over two decades and is due for an overhaul. The forthcoming Digital India Act will replace the IT Act, addressing contemporary digital challenges and setting the stage for the next phase of digital governance.
By focusing on these five critical areas, Vaishnaw will aim to drive innovation, enhance manufacturing capabilities, and establish a secure and regulated digital environment.