India presented its export-driven growth strategy, skilling initiatives in artificial intelligence (AI), and its vision of becoming a global semiconductor hub at the World Economic Forum in Davos. Union Minister for Information & Broadcasting, Railways, Electronics & IT Ashwini Vaishnaw outlined India’s balanced approach to economic development and the nation’s expanding role in global manufacturing and technology.
Balanced Growth Through Manufacturing and Services
Vaishnaw emphasised the synergy between manufacturing and services as essential for sustainable development. “It cannot be manufacturing or services; it has to be manufacturing and services together,” he said, underscoring their combined role in driving India’s economic trajectory.
Shift to Export-Led Growth
India’s transition from import substitution to an export-focused strategy was highlighted, with sectors like pharmaceuticals, chemicals, and garments seeing significant global demand. The domestic production of mobile phones, now at 99%, was showcased as a key milestone of the “Make in India, Make for the World” initiative.
India’s AI Potential: Becoming the “Use Case Capital”
Vaishnaw spotlighted India’s potential to lead in developing AI use cases for global industries. He noted that as AI models become commoditised, India is uniquely positioned to create innovative applications tailored to international markets. “Experts believe India has the potential to lead the world in AI services, much like it has in IT services,” he said.
AI Skilling for a Future Workforce
India aims to train 1 million people in AI tools and technologies to meet global demand for specialised applications. The government has also established:
- 5G labs in 100 universities to train students in telecom technologies.
- Access to advanced EDA tools in 240 universities to develop talent in semiconductor design.
These initiatives align education with industry requirements, creating a robust talent pipeline.
India’s Semiconductor Leadership
Highlighting India’s ascent in the semiconductor sector, Vaishnaw said global industry leaders believe India will soon rank among the top three destinations for semiconductors.
Global Manufacturing Hub
India’s growing reputation as a manufacturing and talent hub is driven by its trust, abundant skilled workforce, and design capabilities. With nearly 2,000 Global Capability Centres (GCCs) focused on advanced designs, the country is attracting global supply and value chains, cementing its role in global manufacturing.
Through its initiatives in AI skilling, semiconductor development, and export-driven growth, India is positioning itself as a leader in global innovation and manufacturing at Davos.
(All images courtesy of the World Economic Forum – Flickr)
