NEW DELHI, Sept 13: India’s ambition to build a globally competitive deep-tech ecosystem received fresh attention at FITT Forward 2026, where technology leaders, researchers and entrepreneurs discussed the country’s prospects in artificial intelligence and emerging technologies.
The two day event, which concluded on September 12, focused on the technologies expected to shape India’s next phase of innovation and economic growth. Discussions examined how advanced research can be translated into products and solutions serving both domestic and international markets.
Artificial intelligence remained a major theme, with participants examining the challenge of developing systems capable of addressing the needs of a population of more than 1.4 billion people while also creating technologies that can compete globally.
The event highlighted the growing importance of combining academic research with private-sector entrepreneurship. Speakers and participants discussed the need for stronger links between laboratories, universities, startups and established companies to accelerate the journey from research to commercial deployment.
India’s technology strategy is increasingly expanding beyond conventional software and IT services into areas such as artificial intelligence, advanced computing, robotics, semiconductor technologies and other high-value fields.
The discussions also underscored the importance of developing domestic capabilities rather than relying heavily on imported technologies for critical infrastructure and strategic applications.
The country’s growing startup ecosystem is expected to play an important role in this transition. Entrepreneurs working on specialised technologies can help convert research breakthroughs into products while creating new employment opportunities and attracting investment.
At the same time, experts have stressed that technological ambition must be supported by access to capital, specialised talent, computing infrastructure and long-term research funding.
AI is particularly significant because of its potential applications across healthcare, agriculture, manufacturing, education, public services and scientific research. Developing systems that work effectively across India’s diverse languages and social conditions remains an important challenge.
The discussions at FITT Forward come as India seeks to strengthen its position in the global technology landscape and encourage the development of locally designed solutions.
The event also reflected a broader shift in the country’s innovation priorities, with greater emphasis being placed on technologies that can create intellectual property, strengthen strategic capabilities and generate high-value economic activity.
India’s ability to build a sustainable deep tech ecosystem will ultimately depend on how effectively research institutions, startups, investors and policymakers work together.