New Delhi | October 14, 2026
India is developing a long-term roadmap spanning 20 to 25 years to reduce dependence on foreign countries for critical technologies and strengthen its resilience against global disruptions, Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw said on Wednesday.
Speaking at the Bloomberg New Economy Forum in New Delhi, Vaishnaw said India aims to build domestic capabilities in strategically important sectors while remaining integrated with global technology supply chains. The strategy focuses on reducing vulnerabilities arising from geopolitical tensions, changing trade policies and international supply chain disruptions.
India Adopts a Phased Technology Strategy
Vaishnaw outlined a three-stage approach to developing domestic technology capabilities. Short-term targets will cover three to five years, medium-term goals will span five to 15 years, and long-term objectives will extend over 20 to 25 years.
The government intends to identify critical areas where dependence on overseas suppliers could expose India’s manufacturing sector and economy to external risks. However, the minister clarified that the objective is not complete self-sufficiency but greater resilience and a stronger position in global supply chains.
Semiconductor Manufacturing Takes Centre Stage
Semiconductors are a major priority under India’s technology development strategy. Vaishnaw stressed that building a sustainable semiconductor industry requires more than chip design and manufacturing facilities.
The country also needs domestic capabilities in essential materials, industrial chemicals, gases and substrate materials. The second phase of the India Semiconductor Mission places greater emphasis on developing this broader ecosystem.
The minister noted that manufacturing efforts can deliver lasting results only when supporting industries and supply networks are established alongside production facilities.
India Expands Electronics and Telecom Capabilities
Vaishnaw pointed to India’s mobile phone industry as an example of technological progress. The country has moved beyond assembling finished devices towards manufacturing modules and components, with some products now being exported.
He also highlighted the development of an indigenous end-to-end 4G telecommunications technology stack through collaboration between government agencies and private companies. According to the minister, the system was developed in three-and-a-half years and deployed across more than 100,000 towers.
Research and Development Remain Key Challenges
The minister called for higher research and development spending, particularly in applied research that can translate scientific advances into practical industrial applications.
He also warned that artificial intelligence could significantly reshape employment, particularly in the services sector. Rising debt levels in advanced economies could create additional financial pressures and contribute to global economic uncertainty.
Vaishnaw said India is working to strengthen its financial, economic and technological resilience. He noted that the country’s public debt-to-GDP ratio had declined from 61% to 55% over the preceding five years, according to his remarks.
India Seeks Technology Partnerships and Greater Resilience
India’s long-term approach combines domestic capability development with cooperation among trusted international partners. Cisco Chairman and CEO Chuck Robbins, who participated in the forum discussion, supported the approach of developing strategically important technologies while collaborating with reliable companies.
The roadmap reflects India’s effort to strengthen technological security, expand manufacturing and reduce critical supply chain vulnerabilities without withdrawing from international markets. Its success will depend on sustained investment, research, skilled workers and coordination between government and industry.
