Australia’s defence programs drive growth in defence industry and innovation

Australia recently
released its first Defence Industry and Innovation Programs Update Report.
The report indicated that the country’s defence programs, including the Defence
Innovation Hub, Next
Generation Technologies Fund and Centre
for Defence Industry Capability (CDIC), are successful in advancing
Defence’s capability and growing Australian industries.

“In the first year alone, these programs are already
delivering substantial results for Defence capability and Australian industry,”
said Minister for Defence Industry, the Hon Christopher Pyne MP.

According to the first-year progress report, all three
programs have met major milestones and demonstrated success against measures
set out in the 2016 Defence Industry Policy Statement. The three defence
innovation programs have together received over 1,100 proposals and resulted in
the signing of over A$80 million-worth of defence innovation contracts.

The Defence
Innovation Hub

The Defence Innovation Hub enables Defence, industry and
research institutions to collaborate on innovative technologies that can be
developed into an advanced capability for Defence.

Funded at around A$640 million over the decade to 2025–26,
the Defence Innovation Hub accepts proposals that are ready to enter the
engineering and development stages of the innovation process from concept
exploration and technology demonstration, through to prototyping and integrated
capability demonstration and evaluation.

In its first year, the Defence Innovation Hub received over
390 innovation proposals and awarded more than A$53.5 million in contracts
aligned to Defence’s strategic priorities for innovation investment.

The Next Generation
Technologies Fund

With an investment of around A$730 million over the decade to
2025–26, the Next Generation Technologies Fund is a forward-looking program
focusing on research and development in emerging and future technologies to
develop game-changing capabilities for Defence.

The Next Generation Technologies Fund accepts proposals from
universities, research agencies and industry that have a particular emphasis on
scientific research and assists in turning early ideas into innovation concepts
with the potential to deliver game-changing capabilities for the ‘future force
after next’. Innovative technologies and concepts researched under the Next
Generation Technologies Fund will be further explored and realised into
capability through the Defence Innovation Hub.

In its first year, the Next Generation Technologies Fund has
deepened Defence research partnerships across Australia, receiving more than
800 proposals, funding collaborations with more than 40 companies, universities
and publicly-funded research organisations, and committing more than A$110
million to research programs in the coming years.

Centre for Defence
Industry Capability

In this first year of operations, the CDIC’s advisor network
has assisted over 750 businesses, with 75% of those accessing tailored advisory
services new to doing business with Defence. The CDIC has also awarded over
A$860,000 in grants targeted to achieving defence business specific
improvements for small to medium enterprises (SMEs).

According to the Update Report, the CDIC is a cornerstone of
the Government’s strategy for resetting the Defence-industry partnership and
supporting Australian industry to position itself to meet Defence’s current and
future capability needs.

Headquartered in Adelaide, the CDIC has advisors across
Australia forming a national advisory network. The CDIC brings together the
program delivery and industry expertise of the Department of Industry
Innovation and Science, with the strategic guidance from the Department of
Defence, and the passion, skills and expertise of industry participants.

The program aims to build a world-class, globally
competitive and sustainable Australian industry as a fundamental input to
Defence capability. The CDIC plays an important two-way enabling role between
Defence and Australian industry through tailored advisory services, export and
sector development initiatives, funding for defence business development and
skilling, and facilitating innovation proposals.

Credit: Defence Industry and Innovation Programs Update Report

At the same time, the Defence
Innovation Portal, as the digital marketplace for Defence Innovation
opportunities, has been highly successful in soliciting proposals for the
Defence Innovation Hub and Next Generation Technologies Fund.

The website provides an easy to use gateway between Defence,
industry and research organisations and is the entry point for ‘new starters’
to engage with Defence. In particular, SMEs that do not have established Defence
relationships are able to use the Portal to gain an understanding of Defence’s
capability needs and to support their ability to contribute to Defence’s
requirements

“Through close collaboration, Defence, industry, and
research organisations are delivering a strong, sustainable and innovative
local industry which can meet Defence’s future research and capability needs,”
Minister Pyne said.

Minister Pyne added that these programs represent a A$1.6
billion commitment by the Australian Government to harness the innovation and
export potential of Australia’s defence industry in support of Defence
capability.

In February 2016, the Australian Government set out the
Defence Industry Policy Statement to transform the Defence relationship with
industry and the national research community. Under the A$1.6 billion
investment, the Next Generation Technologies Fund and the Defence Innovation
Hub are the two signature innovation programs which aim to deliver a new
strategy-led approach to Defence innovation, while the CDIC provides funding
and support to Defence industry development, skilling and export initiatives.

According to the Update Report, the three initiatives are
helping drive Defence capability, by investing in Australia’s defence industry
and innovation sector, and lowering barriers to doing business and innovating
with Defence. They also support Australian Government’s defence industry policy
agenda that is being enhanced through initiatives such as the first Defence Export
Strategy released on 29 January 2018, the first Defence
Industrial Capability Plan scheduled for release in the first half of 2018
and the strengthened Australian
Industry Capability Program.

Together, these initiatives are about implementing a robust
defence industry and innovation system that provides the best capability for
the Australian Defence Force, maximises Australian industry and innovation in
support of defence capability, and better plans, guides, and assists Australian
businesses and researchers to meet our defence capability needs.

The full report is available here.

Digitalising Decision-Making Transforming Singapore’s Legal Landscape

In an era where technology increasingly shapes the way we manage daily life, its impact on crucial legal matters is often neglected. A commonly overlooked concern revolves around decision-making in unique situations.

If an individual becomes incapable of making decisions, it’s important to note that their next of kin doesn’t automatically assume legal authority to oversee their affairs. Instead, they’re required to undergo a lengthy and cumbersome court process to gain access to bank accounts or manage insurance payouts.

With this in mind, Singapore offers an option to deal with such circumstances. The Lasting Power of Attorney (LPA) is a crucial legal document allowing individuals to designate someone to act on their behalf if they become incapacitated. Recognising its pivotal role, the partnership between GovTech’s Services team and the Office of the Public Guardian (OPG) under the Ministry of Social and Family Development (MSF) in Singapore has led to a remarkable digital transformation in the LPA application process.

The collaborative solution from the Office of the Public Guardian Online (OPGO) is a pioneering platform aimed at simplifying and automating the LPA application process. This digital overhaul not only slashes the processing time from three weeks to a mere 15 minutes but also revolutionises the user experience.

The development of OPGO was not a mere technological leap; it was a carefully curated process. The team embraced design thinking methodologies, engaging stakeholders, conducting usability workshops, and even pilot-testing with various demographics, including medical professionals and legal experts.

The integration of the National Digital Identity platform brought forth Secure Electronic Signatures, eliminating the need for physical signatures and ensuring a secure environment for document verification. Data security measures were rigorously implemented to safeguard sensitive information, offering citizens peace of mind when engaging with the platform.

The OPGO team is eager to explore more avenues to ease citizen’s lives. They’re on a mission to integrate artificial intelligence and machine learning into document processing, anticipating even faster processing times and improved user experiences. By employing predictive analysis, they aim to broaden coverage with reduced manpower.

The agile methodology adopted, coupled with technology like low-code platforms, continuous integration and delivery practices, automated testing, and cloud technology, ensured adaptability and quality assurance throughout the project lifecycle. These measures were instrumental in refining OPGO’s usability before its launch and continue to facilitate its evolution.

The journey from manual processing to digitalisation has not only simplified bureaucratic procedures but also empowered individuals to take charge of their future in a technologically advanced, efficient, and secure manner.

In essence, the evolution of LPAs through technology is not just about paperwork; it’s a testament to how innovation can transform legal processes, making them accessible, efficient, and reliable for the benefit of society.

Since its launch in November 2022, over 57,000 individuals have used the OPGO portal to submit their LPA applications. The platform’s success surpassed key benchmarks for customer satisfaction, e-payment integration, digital signatures, and data pre-fill, proving its intuitive interface and functionality were well-received by citizens.

Until March 2026, citizens have the opportunity to benefit from a waived $75 application fee for LPAs, enabling them to use the efficient and user-friendly OPGO platform to secure their future.

Singapore recognises that technology has the potential to better people’s lives. They also understand that all segments of society should be able to understand, access and participate in an increasingly digital world.

OpenGov reported on the government’s commitment to supporting Singaporeans in this quest for perpetual learning. Senior Minister of State Tan Kiat How underscored the pivotal role of continuous learning and skills acquisition in navigating the dynamic landscape of the modern world. He shared the Forward Singapore report, a comprehensive guide to the nation’s major developmental shifts, urging those unfamiliar with it to explore its insights.

India’s Tech Stance to Climate Solutions

Secretary Leena Nandan of the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change has emphatically highlighted India’s proactive stance in achieving climate targets, particularly in sustainable cooling initiatives, during her address at the UNFCCC COP 28 in Dubai.

India’s commitment to reducing emission intensity stands as a testament to its proactive approach towards combating climate change. Initially setting an ambitious target of 33-35% reduction by 2030, India’s remarkable progress in this endeavour has surpassed expectations. By achieving a 33% reduction in emission intensity of GDP by 2019, the nation has not only showcased its dedication but has also demonstrated tangible results ahead of schedule.

Ms Nandan highlighted India’s continued efforts to scale up climate ambitions, acknowledging the global need for more substantial action to combat climate change. She underscored India’s dual focus on economic growth and environmental sustainability, exemplified through initiatives like the India Cooling Action Plan (ICAP).

Highlighting the importance of research into cooling technologies suitable for Indian climatic conditions, the Secretary emphasised the need for industry collaboration to expedite the adoption and scaling up of these advancements.

“India needs to bolster efforts to research on coolants that would be most appropriate to Indian climatic conditions,” Ms Nandan was quoted as saying.

India’s approach, she stressed, is centred on responsible and sustainable growth, setting the narrative for responsible economic expansion while maintaining ecological balance. The government’s commitment to implementing pioneering solutions was highlighted, inviting industry stakeholders to join in making India a global leader in cooling technologies.

The event also showcased India’s achievements in meeting targets under the Montreal Protocol, particularly in creating a sustainable cooling ecosystem, essential for environmental stability. Integrated approaches were prioritised to achieve sustainable cooling across various sectors, such as residential, commercial, cold-chain, and transport, anticipating increased cooling demands with the country’s economic growth.

India’s proactive measures, such as the phase-out of ozone-depleting substances like HCFCs well ahead of Montreal Protocol schedules, were highlighted. The country has been a pioneer in adopting non-Ozone Depleting Substances and low Global Warming Potential technologies, demonstrating its commitment to environmental preservation.

Additionally, the session included insights from industries and implementing agencies like UNDP, UNEP, and GIZ, emphasising collaborative efforts for the success of initiatives under the Montreal Protocol.

The comprehensive approach outlined during the event underscores India’s technological advancements, collaborative spirit, and unwavering commitment to sustainable cooling, positioning the nation as a trailblazer in climate-conscious technological solutions.

In India, the aspirations for sustainability transcend mere good ideals – they are embedded into the fabric of a visionary roadmap, ambitions designed to harness technology’s immense potential. This merging of innovation and environmental stewardship defines the nation’s commitment to redefining the trajectory of sustainable development.

Through a multifaceted approach, India seeks to leverage technological advancements to address critical sustainability challenges. From renewable energy initiatives and smart city development to the conservation of biodiversity and the adoption of eco-friendly practices in industries, the nation aims to create a blueprint where progress harmonizes with the planet’s well-being.

OpenGov Asia reported that, in a significant stride towards technological innovation and sustainable development, the Department of Scientific & Industrial Research (DSIR) and The Energy and Resources Institute (TERI) have joined forces to revolutionise India’s construction and wastewater treatment sectors.

This pioneering collaboration under the “Access to Knowledge for Technology Development and Dissemination (A2K+) Studies” Scheme of DSIR is aimed at aligning with India’s Smart Cities Mission and its ambitious commitment to achieving net-zero emissions by 2070.

DSIR’s allocation of two crucial research studies to TERI signifies a pivotal step in bridging the informational gap on advanced building materials, designs for energy efficiency, and the assessment of membrane-based sewage wastewater treatment systems for reuse and recycling.

Indonesia-India Space Collaboration Unveiled

Developing space sector innovation is Indonesia’s primary focus, diligently realised through various strategic partnerships. The successful launch of SATRIA, achieving connectivity milestones by delivering internet speeds of up to 150Gbps, marks a significant achievement for Indonesia in space exploration.

Furthermore, to sustain the progress and advancements in space technology, Indonesia continues its collaboration with the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO). This collaboration, initiated in 1995, has evolved into a crucial milestone, enriching knowledge and exploring the latest innovations in the space sector, as highlighted by Mila Kencana, the Head of the Legal and Cooperation Bureau at the National Research and Innovation Agency (BRIN).

BRIN plays a central role in fostering this collaboration. Mila Kencana explained that the cooperation began with India’s initiative to establish the Tracking, Telemetry & Command (TT&C) ground station in Biak, Papua, supporting the efficient launch of the Geostationary Satellite Launch Vehicle (GSLV). The Indonesian government welcomed India’s desire to collaborate, marking the beginning of a productive collaborative relationship in the space sector.

Over time, the collaboration between Indonesia and India has continued to evolve. The pinnacle was reached in 2018 when both governments signed the Framework Agreement on Space Exploration and Utilisation for Peaceful Purposes. This agreement reflects a shared commitment to space exploration and utilisation for peaceful purposes, encompassing not only the development of space technology but also scientific research, knowledge exchange, and the utilisation of space-related outcomes for the benefit of both nations.

This collaboration strengthens Indonesia’s position in the global space arena and creates new opportunities for economic growth, technological capacity enhancement, and sustainable scientific collaboration between the two countries. With a strong determination and a solid foundation of collaboration, Indonesia and India continue to explore the potential of space for peaceful purposes and mutual progress.

Mila expressed optimism about this collaboration, emphasising that with BRIN’s consolidation, ample human resources, and substantial infrastructure, Indonesia should be able to take over responsibilities as planned since 1995. Mila mentioned that the Transfer Agreement and IA Further Use are currently in the internal approval stage by the Indian government through ISRO and are envisioned to be signed soon. She believed that Indonesia can prepare human resources capable of acquiring knowledge transfer from experts predominantly from India.

Mila explained that numerous benefits will be gained from this collaboration, including transferring ownership of the Biak ground station from ISRO to BRIN. This is considered fundamental and crucial, signifying the continuity of cooperation and Indonesia’s capability.

Additionally, ISRO will provide satellite launch services using its vehicles. “There are two BRIN-made satellites that are not charged, and, of course, equally important is the enhancement of research and researcher, engineer, or technician capabilities,” added Mila.

Salim Mustofa, Director of Strengthening and Infrastructure Partnership at the Research and Innovation Agency, mentions that the progress of this collaboration has reached the signing stage and is planned to be executed soon.

“Biak is considered strategic for India to facilitate and launch their rocket activities and track launched satellites,” Salim explained. “It is expected that through Biak, satellite data reception activities can cover 20% of the ASEAN region; this is already included in ISRO and India’s grand design for the future,” Salim further elaborated.

Salim emphasised that space development is a crucial step for a country. “The importance of utilising space data for various sectors, including agriculture, the environment, and disaster mitigation. By collectively exploring the potential of space data, Indonesia and ISRO can present innovative solutions to local and global challenges,” he concludes.

Salim expressed optimism that the collaboration between Indonesia and ISRO will continue and develop into a closer and sustainable partnership. He emphasises that this collaboration goes beyond satellite launches or space infrastructure, encompassing knowledge exchange, human resource capacity development, and shared innovation. With a mutual understanding of each country’s needs and potential, this collaboration can have broader and more profound impacts on the space sector and related technological developments.

Nanotech Propels India’s Innovation Journey

In Mohali lies a beacon of scientific advancement – the Institute of Nano Science and Technology (INST), India’s pioneering Nano-Science Institute. Embracing a monumental role in shaping India’s technological landscape, this institution is proof of India’s commitment to cutting-edge research and innovation.

INST commenced its transformative journey on January 3, 2013, and from its humble beginnings has now blossomed into a state-of-the-art campus sprawling over 35 acres in the Knowledge City at Sector-81, Mohali, Punjab.

Dr. Jitendra Singh, Minister of State for Science & Technology, emphasised the pivotal role of INST in spearheading research, generating groundbreaking products, and steering technology in the realm of Nanoscience and Technology.

Addressing faculty and students, he underscored the institute’s profound futuristic role, stating that its mission aligns seamlessly with India’s ambitious pursuit of a 5 Trillion Dollar Economy.

“INST is the first Nano-Science Institute in the country set up to undertake research and generate products/devices and technology in the area of Nanoscience and Technology for the benefit of the country,” revealed Dr ISingh.

At its core, INST aims to delve into diverse areas of Nanoscience and Technology, with focused endeavours in Agricultural Nanotechnology, Nanomedicine, Energy, Environmental Science, Quantum Materials, Nano Electronics, Microfluidics Based Technologies, and Nanobiotechnology.

As an autonomous research institution under the Department of Science and Technology, Government of India, INST operates under the esteemed National Mission on Nano Science and Technology (NANO MISSION), committed to propelling the growth and outreach of this transformative field.

The vision for INST extends far beyond its academic pursuits; it aspires to emerge as India’s premier research institution in Nano Science and Technology, contributing significantly to society across various domains, including agriculture, medicine, energy, and environment.

Moreover, INST does not confine its impact within the institution’s walls; it actively engages with the broader community, reaching out to schools and colleges, nurturing scientific aptitude among young minds, and showcasing the practical applications of science in daily life.

Dr. Jitendra Singh emphasised INST’s core mission – pioneering cutting-edge research with interdisciplinary dimensions, tackling global and local challenges in domains ranging from energy to healthcare. He encapsulated the institution’s ethos in its motto: “Knowledge of Nanoscience for the Nation.”

The institute’s objectives encapsulate a multifaceted approach, from advancing knowledge and nurturing young talent in nanoscience and technology to offering advanced training courses and fostering innovation through technology-based scientific projects. Moreover, INST is actively bridging the gap between laboratory research and industry applications, fostering collaborations, and advocating for the benefits and safety measures of Nano Science and Technology to the public and media.

The Institute of Nano Science and Technology (INST) is a testament to India’s commitment to scientific advancement and innovation. With a relentless pursuit of knowledge and a vision that transcends traditional boundaries, INST continues to pave the way for a future where Nano Science and Technology revolutionise industries, uplift communities, and propel India onto the global technological forefront.

India’s commitment to nano-technology extends far beyond national boundaries, embodying a dedication to fostering advancements in this transformative field. Embracing a spirit of collaboration and knowledge exchange, India endeavours to extend its expertise in nano-science and technology, contributing to global scientific progress and fostering international partnerships for the greater good of humanity.

OpenGov Asia reported that the Indian Institute of Technology Kanpur (IIT-Kanpur) and the African-Asian Rural Development Organisation (AARDO) jointly organised an international training programme, focused on exploring the application of nanotechnology in promoting plant growth and crop protection for sustainable agriculture.

According to an IIT-Kanpur statement, the programme served as a forum for experts from diverse fields to discuss and deliberate on solutions to meet the urgent global challenge of achieving food security and promoting sustainability in agriculture.

CISA’s Cyber Vigilance in U.S. Education

In the nation’s critical infrastructure landscape, K-12 schools are pivotal, serving as the foundation for future success and playing an indispensable part in the lives of millions of children, families, and communities. Recognising the importance of ensuring the safety and well-being of students, educators, and staff, the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) leads the annual Critical Infrastructure Security and Resilience Month. This initiative aims to educate and engage all levels of government, infrastructure owners and operators, and the American public about critical infrastructure’s crucial role in the nation’s well-being and the need to strengthen security and resilience.

Digital technology has become an integral aspect of modern education, and as schools navigate the complex landscape of security and resilience, leveraging digital tools and strategies becomes paramount. The intersection of education and technology presents various challenges and opportunities, especially in an evolving threat environment that includes cyberattacks alongside more traditional hazards.

As CISA encourages a Resolve to be Resilient, the emphasis extends to the education community, urging several measures and investments in resilience. The agency acknowledges threats’ increased frequency and intensity, encompassing natural disasters, targeted violence, and cyberattacks. The call to action is clear: prepare today to withstand or recover quickly in the event of an incident tomorrow.

To address the challenges an interconnected world poses, CISA collaborates with several federal agencies and non-government partners to provide actionable guidance, evidence-based practices, and digital tools. The goal is to empower school leaders to navigate the complexities of the digital landscape while fostering a secure and resilient environment for students and staff.

One critical resource CISA offers is the K-12 Bystander Reporting Toolkit, developed in partnership with the U.S. Secret Service National Threat Assessment Centre. This toolkit equips schools with simple strategies to implement and enhance safety reporting programmes, leveraging digital communication channels to facilitate reporting and response.

The K-12 School Security Guide Product Suite, another digital resource, offers districts and campuses tools and strategies to evaluate vulnerabilities, strengthen security measures, and enhance the protection of school communities. This suite reflects a comprehensive approach to digital and physical security in educational settings.

Recognising the importance of cybersecurity, CISA’s Cybersecurity for K-12 Education provides schools with tools, information, and resources to guard against cyber actors and reduce the likelihood of successful cyber incursions. Addressing systemic cybersecurity risks becomes an integral component of school safety plans as technology advances.

Further, CISA’s Tabletop Exercise Packages, designed to examine and test safety processes and plans through simulated exercises, incorporate digital scenarios to ensure that schools are prepared for various threat scenarios, including cyber incidents. This proactive approach helps schools identify digital resilience and response capabilities gaps.

The agency’s regionally based security advisors further contribute to building resilience by providing various risk management and response services, including guidance on addressing evolving digital threats. These advisors play a crucial role in ensuring that schools are equipped to handle the dynamic challenges posed by the digital landscape.

In the digital age, where information is shared at unprecedented speeds, CISA administers SchoolSafety.gov, a Federal interagency website serving as a one-stop access point to school safety information, resources, and tools. This platform covers various topics and threats, offering a holistic approach to creating comprehensive and sustainable school safety plans.

Critical Infrastructure Security and Resilience Month reminds the entire school community to unite in advancing safety efforts. The focus on digital resilience highlights the need for ongoing preparedness and adaptation to changing risk conditions. Throughout this month and beyond, CISA reaffirms its commitment to assisting school communities in maintaining safe, secure, and resilient learning environments in the digital era. The agency’s dedication to leveraging digital technology to benefit education underscores the importance of an inclusive and collaborative approach to cybersecurity and resilience in the nation’s schools.

Singapore Empowering Lifelong Learning and Digital Innovation

In a stirring address at the Emerging Enterprise Awards (EEA) 2023, Senior Minister of State Tan Kiat How underscored the pivotal role of continuous learning and skills acquisition in navigating the dynamic landscape of the modern world.

Emphasising that education should be viewed as a lifelong journey, extending beyond formal academic years, he articulated the need for individuals to adapt to the evolving demands of an ever-changing workplace.

Acknowledging the government’s commitment to supporting Singaporeans in this quest for perpetual learning, Tan Kiat How also appealed to business owners and industry leaders to create an enabling environment for employees to upgrade their skills. He highlighted the Forward Singapore report, a comprehensive guide to the nation’s major developmental shifts, urging those unfamiliar with it to explore its insights.

The Senior Minister of State asserted that embracing technology as a strategic enabler is integral to overcoming traditional constraints and enhancing competitiveness. He underscored Singapore’s pioneering role in digital technology adoption, dating back to the 1980s when the nation became one of the first in the world to integrate computers into its public service and workplaces.

Singapore places a paramount emphasis on the pivotal role of digitalisation in revolutionising its educational landscape. With a focus on enhancing learning experiences, fostering global competitiveness, and preparing students for the future workforce, the nation is embracing innovative teaching methods and personalised learning through advanced digital tools.

The integration of technology not only streamlines administrative processes but also facilitates seamless transitions between in-person and online learning models. This commitment to digitalisation reflects Singapore’s dedication to staying at the forefront of educational innovation, equipping students with essential technological skills for the evolving global landscape.

This commitment to technological advancement has persisted, forming the bedrock of Singapore’s digital foundation. Senior Minister Tan shed light on the government’s SMEs Go Digital programme, an initiative integrating emerging technologies like artificial intelligence (AI) and cloud services into Industry Digital Plans (IDPs).

These IDPs serve as roadmaps, guiding businesses across various sectors in adopting digital solutions and upskilling their workforce. In a recent example, the Tourism (Attractions) IDP incorporated AI to streamline workflows and provide data-driven insights, enhancing decision-making for attraction operators.

The government’s holistic approach extends beyond specific sectors, with a thorough examination of industry disciplines sector by sector. This involves updating strategies, incorporating emerging technologies, and ensuring that small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) can boost productivity and competitiveness while navigating the complexities of digital transformation.

Senior Minister Tan cited the Chief Information Security Officers-as-a-Service initiative, where cybersecurity consultants aid firms in enhancing cyber resilience through “check-ups” and tailored health plans.

Encouraging firms and networks to actively engage with these programmes, Senior Minister Tan emphasised the need for Singapore to embrace its agency in shaping its future. He urged the nation to leverage its strong foundation and the strategic roadmap outlined in Forward Singapore.

As Singapore charts its digital odyssey, the EEA 2023 serves as a platform not just for acknowledging achievements but for inspiring a collective commitment to a future where technological innovation and lifelong learning propel the nation to new heights.

The Senior Minister of State added that Singapore’s exceptionalism relies on collective ambition, hard work, and unity, ensuring that the nation continues to defy the odds and stand as a beacon on the global stage.

India’s Digital Economy: Tech Transformations Unveiled

Union Minister of State for Skill Development & Entrepreneurship and Electronics & IT Rajeev Chandrasekhar shared comprehensive insights into India’s tech landscape at the 26th Edition of the Bengaluru Tech Summit.

Minister Chandrasekhar navigated through a spectrum of crucial tech domains, unravelling India’s transformative journey and the role of entrepreneurship and innovation in the digital economy. He shed light on India’s burgeoning semiconductor industry, the transformative potential of AI, and the instrumental role of startups in shaping the nation’s economic future.

Minister Chandrasekhar reflected on the dynamic shift in India’s semiconductor narrative, echoing the sentiments articulated by India’s Prime Minister at the Semicon India 2023 Summit. He underscored the evolving perspective from “why India” to “when in India” and “why not in India.”

This transformation signifies the growing confidence and capabilities within India’s tech ecosystem, a testament to the nation’s progress in diverse domains such as AI, semiconductors, electronics, Web 3, supercomputing, and high-performance computing.

“Pre-2014, India’s semiconductor story was a series of missed opportunities,” reflected Minister Chandrasekhar while tracing the trajectory of the semiconductor industry’s evolution.

Despite lacking a design legacy, Minister Chandrasekhar emphasised India’s strides in the semiconductor sector. Acknowledging the catch-up game after missed opportunities, he highlighted India’s leapfrogging approach, skipping a generation to explore novel opportunities for the next decade.

The focus on talent, design, packaging, and research has propelled India towards becoming a significant player in the global semiconductor ecosystem, marking a definitive trajectory of growth.

Minister Chandrasekhar reiterated India’s emphasis on harnessing AI’s transformative power resonates deeply with India’s commitment to leveraging cutting-edge technology for societal betterment and enhanced living standards across diverse segments of the population.

“We believe that AI when harnessed correctly, can transform healthcare, agriculture, governance and language translation”: MoS Rajeev Chandrasekhar

By integrating AI technologies into these sectors, the aim is to revolutionise service delivery, streamline operations, and democratise access to advanced services for all citizens. However, he also addressed the inherent risks posed by the potential misuse of AI by bad actors, stressing the need for legislative guardrails to ensure safety and trust in AI applications. Aligning with global sentiments, Chandrasekhar highlighted the necessity for regulatory frameworks to prevent misuse and foster ethical AI deployment.

“The world is now aligning with India’s view that we need guardrails of safety and trust for the Internet,” he said.

In an increasingly tech-dependant world, Mnster Chnadrashekhar believes that innovation and entrepreneurship are vital – startups are the pillars of India’s tech evolution. Elaborating on India’s startup landscape, Minister Chandrasekhar showcased the pivotal role played by startups since 2014, citing the emergence of 102 unicorns and a substantial influx of FDI.

He emphasised how startups are not just economic entities but integral components of India’s tech vision, contributing significantly to the digital economy’s $1 trillion goal. With a focus on nurturing the futureDESIGN DLI startups, Chandrasekhar envisaged their potential to become the unicorns of tomorrow, driving innovation across AI, semiconductors, and next-gen electronic systems.

Minister Chandrasekhar’s insights underscore India’s rapid tech evolution, emphasising the nation’s strides in semiconductors, the transformative impact of AI, and the pivotal role of startups. As India charts its course towards a $1 trillion digital economy, its vision encapsulates the imperative of regulatory frameworks, innovative strides, and collaborative efforts in harnessing technology for inclusive growth and global relevance.

OpenGov Asia reported that Minister Chandrasekhar, who spoke at two influential tech events: the Indian Express Digifraud & Safety Summit 2023 and YourStory Techsparks’23, expressed similar views on India’s technological advancements, regulatory policies, and the nation’s promising future in the global tech landscape.

At these tech summits, Minister Rajeev Chandrasekhar outlined India’s ambitious technological trajectory, reinforcing the government’s dedication to fostering innovation, ensuring a safe digital environment, and harnessing the transformative power of technology for the nation’s progress.

December 4, 2023

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Digitalising Decision-Making Transforming Singapore’s Legal Landscape

India’s Tech Stance to Climate Solutions

Indonesia-India Space Collaboration Unveiled

Nanotech Propels India’s Innovation Journey

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Singapore Empowering Lifelong Learning and Digital Innovation

India’s Digital Economy: Tech Transformations Unveiled

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