India’s tech vision takes off: major announcements at IEEE Future Networks Forum

During the week before last, India targeted the future tech innovation roadmap with wide-ranging initiatives for 6G communication, AI, quantum technologies and space at the IEEE Future Networks World Forum 2025. One of the important things that came out was the proposal of a nearly ₹1 trillion (US$ 12 billion) R&D and Innovation Fund aimed at unleashing the potential of next-generation technologies, and thereby also growing India’s innovation ecosystem. The government presented missions in quantum cyber physical systems, national AI strategies, communications and startup acceleration. They referred to the forum as a watershed moment – the transition from fundamental research to commercialization, worldwide competitiveness and building new ecosystems. The quality of Indian research was not the only issue; the speakers mentioned that the country must also focus on the rapid conversion of innovations into marketable products and supply chains. The announcements are made at a time when India struggles with strategic and economic priorities: digital-divide fixing, native tech capacity building and innovation that corresponds to national development outcomes. Analysts opine that the success will mainly depend on the method of execution: the flow of funds, collaboration with industry, foresight in regulation and availability of skilled workforce will all be factors determining if India can actually accomplish its deep-tech plans.