Introduction
Rahul Gandhi, the Leader of Opposition in Lok Sabha and Congress MP, has once again sparked a crucial debate on India’s industrial and technological future. In a recent post on X (formerly Twitter), he emphasized the significance of a robust production base, criticizing Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s approach to artificial intelligence (AI) and drone technology. His remarks come at a time when global technological advancements are reshaping industries and economies.
The Role of Drones and AI in Modern Warfare
Gandhi shared a video highlighting how drones have transformed warfare by integrating advanced components such as batteries, motors, and optics. These innovations enable enhanced maneuverability and communication on the battlefield. However, he stressed that drones are not merely a singular technology but a result of an advanced industrial ecosystem, one that India currently lacks.
He pointed out that while PM Modi frequently speaks about AI, the country’s competitors are actively progressing in emerging technologies. Gandhi’s remarks suggest that without a strong production base, India’s position in the global technology race remains precarious.
The Need for a Strong Industrial Ecosystem
Rahul Gandhi urged the government to shift its focus from rhetoric to action, advocating for a well-structured industrial policy that fosters technological innovation and job creation. He emphasized that India possesses immense talent, scale, and drive but requires a strategic vision and industrial prowess to secure a competitive edge on the global stage.
“India has immense talent, scale, and drive. We must have a clear vision and build real industrial prowess to give our youth jobs and lead India into the future,” said Gandhi in his statement.
Manufacturing as the Foundation of National Security
Earlier this month, during the motion of thanks on the President’s Address in Lok Sabha, Gandhi reiterated that manufacturing is a fundamental pillar of India’s national security. He stressed that production capabilities are crucial not only for economic growth but also for ensuring the country’s security in an era where wars are fought between industrial systems rather than just armies.
He warned that India is falling behind China, which has been investing in critical sectors such as batteries, robotics, and optics for over a decade. China’s lead in these areas presents a significant challenge to India’s industrial ambitions.
The Failure of ‘Make in India’
Gandhi criticized the Modi government’s ‘Make in India’ initiative, claiming it has failed to revitalize the manufacturing sector. He cited data indicating that the sector’s contribution to GDP has declined from 15.3% in 2014 to 12.6%—the lowest in 60 years. This downturn, he argued, highlights the inefficacy of the current policies in driving industrial growth.
A Roadmap for India’s Industrial Future
Despite acknowledging China’s technological lead, Gandhi remains optimistic that India can catch up with the right vision. He proposed a comprehensive strategy under an INDIA-led government that would:
- Revamp Education: Align academic curricula with industrial needs to create a skilled workforce.
- Enlist Experts: Bring together top minds in engineering, research, and business to drive technological advancements.
- Expand Financial Support: Ensure widespread access to capital for industrial ventures and startups.
- Align Trade and Foreign Policies: Develop policies that promote domestic manufacturing and reduce dependency on imports.
The Risk of Dependency on Chinese Imports
Gandhi highlighted India’s heavy reliance on Chinese imports for essential industrial components like motors and batteries. This dependency, he argued, poses a threat to national security and economic sovereignty. He called for urgent policy interventions to reduce reliance on foreign imports and strengthen domestic manufacturing capabilities. source (ANINEWS)
Conclusion
Rahul Gandhi’s latest statements underscore the urgent need for India to transition from policy rhetoric to tangible industrial action. His critique of the Modi government’s handling of AI, drones, and manufacturing points to a broader issue: without a strong production base, India risks falling behind in the global technological race. A strategic, well-planned industrial policy could not only boost economic growth but also secure India’s position as a leader in emerging technologies.
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