New Delhi, December 1, 2023: Addressing the 2nd edition of the FICCI Industry 4.0 Awards, Professor Ajay Kumar Sood, Principal Scientific Advisor, revealed that the draft Cabinet note for the Deep Tech Startup Policy is currently in preparation by DPIIT. The draft policy’s comment period has concluded, marking a significant stride toward reshaping the landscape for deep tech startups. The National Deep Tech Startup Policy is designed to provide a robust framework, addressing challenges faced by these startups and offering policy interventions to elevate the ecosystem.
The draft policy, unveiled at the event, signifies a crucial step in fostering the growth of advanced technology startups, particularly within the domain of Industry 4.0. Professor Sood emphasized that by concentrating on deep tech, the policy aims to catalyze innovation and research in sectors crucial to Industry 4.0, propelling transformative changes in areas such as manufacturing and healthcare.
“The Government of India acknowledges the transformative potential of Industry 4.0, actively aligning national policies with this new industrial paradigm,” stated Professor Sood. Initiatives like ‘Make in India’ and ‘Digital India’ are integral components of a strategic effort to position India as a hub for high-tech manufacturing and digital innovation. With the recent launch of the Anusandhan National Research Foundation (ANRF) and Quantum Mission, the government is investing in research and development, fostering collaboration between academia and industry, and nurturing an environment conducive to innovation.
Professor Sood extended an invitation to the industry to collaborate on the Quantum Mission and the newly established ‘Anusandhan National Research Foundation’ (ANRF).
Highlighting key focus areas, Professor Sood emphasized the importance of concerted efforts among stakeholders in areas such as skill and capacity development, knowledge transfer between academia and industry, technology commercialization, digital public infrastructure, industry standards, agile regulatory frameworks, cybersecurity, and enhanced data governance to boost preparedness and competitiveness toward Industry 4.0.
Mr. Subhrakant Panda, President of FICCI, noted that technology is poised to be the driving force behind India’s transformative journey towards sustainable, resilient, and inclusive development. Acknowledging India’s success in administering the world’s largest vaccination program and showcasing technological capabilities globally, he applauded the government’s proactive stance, announcing initiatives to promote artificial intelligence (AI). He also commended the efforts of FICCI Industry 4.0 Committee’s maturity assessment framework.
Mr. Suprakash Chaudhuri, Chairman of FICCI Industry 4.0 Committee, highlighted the committee’s commitment to supporting businesses in resolving challenges through local sourcing, realigning supplier networks, and ramping up inventories.
Mr. Rajeev Singh and Mr. KG Chandrasekhar, Co-Chairs of FICCI Industry 4.0 Committee, emphasized the successful integration of cutting-edge technologies and advanced manufacturing processes in positioning India as a global hub for manufacturing.
The FICCI Industry 4.0 Handbook, detailing the award process and providing insights into awardees and their best practices, was released on the occasion. The 2nd FICCI Industry 4.0 Awards were also announced.
