Ajay Kumar

Time to reclaim the billions that global tech giants make off Indian users

Millions of Indian users generate billions in economic value for global digital platforms, yet most of it flows abroad. India must capture this value locally

To truly transform governance, reforms must ask 'why' certain rules exist

Asking why is a powerful tool for meaningful reform. It sparks critical thinking and challenges outdated assumptions

Rewiring public procurement for innovation faces single-vendor hurdle

For RDI to deliver fully, it must be backed by reforms in public procurement to actively support locally developed products

As GPS disruptions grow, India eyes indigenous quantum navigation boost

As disrupting GPS has become a key tactic, QQMNS offers India a chance to leapfrog traditional systems with a sovereign, denial-proof alternative

India must develop own maritime security to protect digital lifelines

A strategic shift is redefining how nations view undersea cables - from commercial infrastructure to assets critical for sovereignty and global influence

Operation Sindoor: India needs information-defence, not just rebuttals

Counter-narratives do exist today, but coming from unofficial sources, they often get lost in the noise of disinformation

Civil-military synergy: More urgent than ever for national security

It is time for third-generation reforms to improve coordination between the two arms, as modern threats demand unified civilian-military responses, not siloed strategies

Mudra loans power millions of small businesses, fuelling India's growth

By expanding the list of beneficiary businesses, the scheme is increasing support for micro and small enterprises and helping India in achieving its ambition to become a $5 trillion economy

India's untapped data goldmine is a key strategic asset for India

Why expanding domestic data capacity is not just an economic need, but a strategic asset for India's technological, geopolitical, and security resilience

Seller is king in defence as exporters aim to keep India as a key buyer

In the defence market, sellers often maintain the upper hand despite the exceptionally high costs of their products

A new orbit for India: Startups, innovation propel space ambitions

While Isro pioneered cost-effective space innovations, startups are taking efficiency to the next level

Regulation.ai@India: Striking a balance between innovation and safety

India must not delay implementing comprehensive AI regulations to ensure technology serves humanity's best interests and upholds core values

Unlocking India's economic potential: Key tech policy priorities for 2025

This year should be a watershed year, transforming India into a "Product Nation," with Rs l trillion allocated for Research & Development to the private sector

Clearing the way for air taxis: India needs second-generation drone reforms

With drone technology breaking new ground, air taxis are poised to revolutionise urban mobility, offering a promising solution to the crippling traffic congestion that plagues many cities

Reaching new policy heights: Mission Karmayogi to reshape bureaucracy

Distrust has emerged as a major barrier in policymaking across India, deeply rooted in the colonial legacy of governance

The quantum clock is ticking: Strong policy framework needed for India

India must urgently develop a robust policy framework for the adoption of quantum technologies to build on the initial successes achieved by its startups

Why India must do more to move towards a trust-based governance model

The emphasis on processes over outcomes is rooted in a belief that individuals and businesses cannot act ethically and effectively without strict guidance and supervision. The govt needs to trust more

Defence reforms 2.0 for Modi 3.0

AI, exports, private sector participation, and manpower rationalisation must lead the initiatives

Breaking the minerals monopoly

India can draw inspiration from Indonesia's success in nickel to lead globally in critical minerals

The rise and rise of technology

As technology's influence on geopolitics continues to expand, it is crucial that the new government implements strategic policy initiatives akin to the JAM trinity