Tackling digital colonialism in AI era

In an era dominated by artificial intelligence, India is taking significant strides to combat digital colonialism, a modern form of control where global tech giants dominate digital spaces. By emphasizing data sovereignty, India aims to reclaim control over its digital assets, ensuring that data generated within the country remains under its jurisdiction. This move is not only about safeguarding privacy but also about empowering local businesses to thrive in a competitive digital landscape. To further this agenda, India is actively promoting the development and use of local AI technologies. By nurturing homegrown AI talent and startups, the country seeks to reduce its dependency on foreign technology and create a robust ecosystem that caters to its unique needs. This strategic focus on local innovation is designed to foster economic growth and enhance digital self-reliance, positioning India as a formidable player in the global AI arena. Central to these efforts are initiatives like the Open Network for Digital Commerce (ONDC) and India Stack, which aim to democratize digital infrastructure. ONDC is set to transform e-commerce by making it more accessible to small businesses, while India Stack provides a set of APIs to facilitate digital transactions and identity verification. Together, these initiatives are laying the groundwork for a more inclusive digital economy, ensuring that India's digital future is shaped by its own citizens and not dictated by external forces.

— Authored by Next24 Live