Tech Must Respect India's Cultural Roots: Sachchidanand Joshi
IGNCA Member Secretary Sachchidanand Joshi says AI and digital growth must be balanced with India's civilisational values and social fabric.
In an era defined by rapid digital transformation, the path to progress for India lies in a delicate balance between cutting-edge innovation and deep-seated civilisational values. This was the core message delivered by Sachchidanand Joshi, Member Secretary of the Indira Gandhi National Centre for the Arts (IGNCA), during a high-level panel discussion in New Delhi.
Speaking at the launch of the 'India Tech Playbook' by author Santosh Tiwari, Joshi emphasized that while Artificial Intelligence (AI) and digital expansion are propelling the nation toward unprecedented heights, they must not come at the cost of India's social fabric or intellectual depth.
Bridging Tradition and Digital Transformation
Joshi highlighted how technology is already reshaping the lives of citizens in even the most remote corners of the country. He cited the Araku Valley in Andhra Pradesh as a prime example; an area once plagued by Left-Wing Extremism has seen a massive shift, with street vendors and small merchants now seamlessly utilizing digital payment systems.
However, he issued a cautionary note regarding the rise of automation. "Culture is intrinsically connected with people, their experiences, and their expressions, as reflected in India's Shruti and Smriti traditions," Joshi stated. He warned that an over-reliance on AI should not distance individuals from their human memory or disrupt the social structures that define the nation.
Key priorities for India's journey to becoming a global tech leader, according to Joshi, include:
- Data Sovereignty: Ensuring India maintains control over its own digital assets.
- Cybersecurity: Protecting the digital landscape from evolving threats.
- Cultural Preservation: Nurturing the traditions that form the bedrock of Indian identity.
The Need for Robust Infrastructure and Inclusivity
Adding to the discussion, Aruna Sharma, former Secretary to the Government of India, advocated for a "Whole of Economy" approach. She argued that for new technologies to succeed sustainably, they must be supported by massive backend infrastructure.
"Every new technological development must be supported by adequate backend systems. For instance, the transition to electric vehicles demands a parallel expansion of charging networks," Sharma explained. She also pointed to the success of the Unified Payments Interface (UPI) and Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) as vital tools that have empowered rural women through financial inclusivity, though she warned against the risks of online fraud and unregulated cryptocurrency platforms.
A Global Hub for Innovation
The panel also touched upon India's growing dominance in specialized sectors. Gunveena Chadha, Secretary General of the Indian Beverage Association, noted India's significant strides in fintech, spacetech, and medtech. She highlighted how affordable, high-end healthcare has positioned India as a medical hub for patients arriving from Africa and the Middle East.
Regarding the impact of AI on the arts, Chadha suggested that technology should serve as an enabler to amplify human creativity rather than a tool to displace artistic talent.
Looking Toward 2047
The event, themed 'Civilisation to Innovation: Culture, Technology and India’s Economic Future', concluded with a vision for the future. Author Santosh Tiwari explained that his book aims to prepare the next generation for "sunrise sectors" such as:
- Semiconductors
- Quantum computing
- Aerospace
- Green energy
Ultimately, the consensus among experts was that India is uniquely positioned to achieve tech-led growth by 2047, provided its innovations remain humane, inclusive, and firmly anchored in the philosophy of 'Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam'—the belief that the world is one family.