India marked its 79th Independence Day in 2025 by reflecting on a new dimension of freedom – technological sovereignty. Political independence alone no longer suffices. Modern society depends heavily on technology controlled by a few global companies. This dependence poses risks in security, economy and national integrity. India now aims to build self-reliant software and hardware ecosystems to secure its future.
Current Technological Vulnerabilities
India’s critical infrastructure runs on foreign software and cloud services. These include banks, transport, and power grids. A small number of companies from one country control these systems globally. If these services are withdrawn or compromised, India faces serious disruption. Recent incidents have shown this threat is real and urgent. Dependence on external technology providers is a national security risk.
Pathway to Software Autonomy
India lacks a fully trusted operating system or foundational software developed domestically. This creates reliance on foreign technology with potential backdoors or hidden controls. The open-source software model offers a practical solution. India can develop its own versions of Linux and Android that are secure and free of external control. Success depends on sustained support, maintenance and a large user base. Collaboration among India’s IT professionals is crucial to build and maintain these systems long term.
Challenges in Hardware Sovereignty
Achieving independence in hardware is more complex than software. Semiconductor fabrication demands huge investment and long-term commitment. India must start by focusing on chip design and assembly, building expertise through partnerships. Outsourcing fabrication initially can be a pragmatic step. Hardware sovereignty requires patience and strategic planning to reduce reliance on foreign supply chains.
Open Source as a Social Movement
India’s technology independence should embrace open-source principles. This approach encourages collaboration and societal benefit rather than confrontation. While open-source software like Android and Linux is widespread, control of cloud infrastructure remains centralised and foreign. India needs a renewed social movement to reclaim control over software and hardware. The country has the talent and resources; what is needed is collective will and organisation.
Building Sustainable Development Models
Developing trusted software requires continuous updates and dedicated teams. These teams must operate like product units in companies with clear business models. The mission must be financially sustainable beyond government or private funding. The shift from free to supported open-source software is already underway globally. India can leverage this trend to build reliable, secure technology ecosystems.
Implementing a National Mission
India must launch a focused mission to plan and execute technology autonomy projects. This is not an academic exercise but a practical development effort involving engineers and project managers. Industry and academia possess the expertise needed. The government’s role is to enable a self-sustaining ecosystem. This mission represents a long-term commitment to secure India’s technological future.
Questions for UPSC:
- Critically analyse the importance of technological sovereignty for national security in the digital age with suitable examples.
- Explain the role of open-source software in promoting digital independence and how it can impact India’s technology sector.
- What are the challenges in achieving semiconductor hardware sovereignty? How can India overcome these challenges through policy and partnerships?
- Comment on the impact of global technology dependence on India’s economic and strategic autonomy. What measures can be taken to mitigate these risks?
