The World Economic Forum (WEF) recently announced its decision to establish the Center for the Fourth Industrial Revolution (C4IR) in Hyderabad, Telangana. This center, an autonomous, non-profit organization, will primarily focus on healthcare and life sciences related themes. This article will shed more light on the Fourth Industrial Revolution (4IR), its applications, associated challenges, and a brief overview of previous industrial revolutions.
Understanding the Fourth Industrial Revolution (4IR)
The Fourth Industrial Revolution is defined by the integration of technology into everyday life, thereby bridging the gap between the digital, physical, and biological worlds. It heavily relies on data and encompasses technologies such as cloud computing, big data, autonomous robots, cybersecurity, simulation, additive manufacturing, and the Internet of Things (IoT). The term 4IR was first coined by Klaus Schwab, executive chairperson of the WEF, in 2016.
Examples of 4IR Applications
Several modern innovations demonstrate the progression and potential of the Fourth Industrial Revolution. The pacemaker, for instance, embodies the essence of 4IR with its wireless sensors that monitor vital parameters and influence the heart rate accordingly. Physicians can instantly access this information on their smart devices.
Similarly, xenobots, the world’s first living robots created from the stem cells of the African clawed frog, showcase the blending of biological and digital realms. These tiny entities have demonstrated the ability to self-reproduce and could potentially be used for tasks like clearing microplastics or repairing human tissues.
The Modern Coach Factory in Uttar Pradesh has also debuted smart railway coaches equipped with several sensors designed to enhance passenger comfort. These sensors keep a check on sanitation, safety, fire risks, and unauthorized travel using face recognition technology.
Challenges Related to 4IR
Despite its promising future, the Fourth Industrial Revolution also brings several challenges. As automation and artificial intelligence progress, concerns about job displacement and unemployment arise. The greater interconnectivity also exposes individuals and businesses to risks of cyber-attacks.
Moreover, ethical concerns such as accountability, bias, and transparency are also mounting as AI and automation become more advanced. Furthermore, the lack of digital infrastructure in some regions could result in a digital divide and uneven economic development.
A Look Back at Previous Industrial Revolutions
Prior to the Fourth Industrial Revolution, there were three other significantly transformative industrial revolutions. The First Industrial Revolution occurred in the 1800s and leveraged water and steam power for mechanized production, with the steam engine being a prominent example. The Second Industrial Revolution happened in the early 1900s and harnessed electric power for mass production—the advent of electricity being a prime example. The Third Industrial Revolution used electronics and information technology to automate production during the late 1900s, with the computer and the internet serving as key examples.
Each revolution has left an unerasable mark on the world, paving the way for the next. With the onset of the Fourth Industrial Revolution, it remains to be seen how e-Governance will become an integral part of governments worldwide.
