Ashwini Vaishnaw Praises Google’s Investment in India and Reflects on Technological Progress Ashwini Vaishnaw, India’s Minister of Electronics and Information Technology, recently expressed his support for Google’s decision to manufacture the Pixel 8 smartphone in India, highlighting the positive impact it will have on the country’s economy. In a candid conversation, Vaishnaw also revealed his fondness for Google’s YouTube and reminisced about the days when he and his peers dreamt of playing chess with computers and having conversations with them, ideas that have since become a reality. Furthermore, the discussion delved into India’s rapid technological growth, including the launch of 5G services in Delhi, the widespread deployment of 5G sites across the nation, and the forthcoming manufacturing of Pixel smartphones in India, set to commence in 2024.
Google’s Investment in India:
Ashwini Vaishnaw lauded Google’s decision to manufacture the Pixel 8 smartphone in India, recognizing its significance in boosting the country’s economy. Google’s move to produce smartphones domestically aligns with India’s “Make in India” initiative, which aims to promote local manufacturing and reduce dependence on imports. This not only creates job opportunities but also contributes to the growth of the Indian technology sector. Vaishnaw’s endorsement of this endeavor underlines the government’s commitment to fostering a favorable business environment for tech giants in India.
Favorite Google Product – YouTube:
In a lighter moment, Vaishnaw revealed that his personal favorite among Google’s products is YouTube. The video-sharing platform has become a ubiquitous source of entertainment and education, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic. It highlights the broader role technology plays in shaping people’s daily lives and the cultural landscape.
Dreams of the Past, Realities of Today:
Reflecting on his days at the prestigious Indian Institutes of Technology (IIT), Vaishnaw reminisced about the aspirations he and his peers had. They dreamt of playing chess with computers and having conversations with them. These seemingly ambitious dreams have now become an everyday reality with the advancement of artificial intelligence and the proliferation of digital assistants and chatbots. This transformation underscores the incredible strides made in technology over the years.
India’s Technological Progress:
The discussion also shed light on India’s remarkable technological growth. With the launch of 5G services in Delhi and the rollout of 375,000 live 5G sites across the country, India is making significant strides in the telecommunications sector. The availability of 5G will not only enhance internet speed but also enable the proliferation of IoT (Internet of Things) applications, transforming various industries.
Furthermore, the forthcoming manufacturing of Google’s Pixel smartphones in India, set to commence in 2024, signifies a significant step towards making India a hub for electronics manufacturing. This move is expected to bolster the “Atmanirbhar Bharat” (Self-Reliant India) initiative and boost the country’s position in the global technology supply chain.
In conclusion, Ashwini Vaishnaw’s support for Google’s investment in India, his fondness for YouTube, and his reflections on the rapid technological progress in the country underscore the transformative impact of technology on India’s economy and society. These developments exemplify the nation’s commitment to technological advancement and self-reliance.
