What is TIFAC (Technology Information Forecasting and Assessment Council)? Give its mandate. Enlist the upcoming technologies in India by 2020 in the IT sector.

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Points to Remember:

  • TIFAC’s role in technology forecasting and assessment.
  • TIFAC’s mandate and functions.
  • Upcoming IT technologies in India (as of when the question was likely asked, around 2020). Note that predicting future technologies is inherently uncertain, and this section will reflect the likely expectations around 2020.

Introduction:

TIFAC (Technology Information, Forecasting and Assessment Council) is a non-profit autonomous organization under the Department of Science and Technology (DST), Government of India. Established in 1988, its primary mandate is to provide foresight and strategic guidance on technology development and deployment in India. TIFAC undertakes technology assessments, forecasts future technological trends, and identifies areas requiring focused research and development efforts. Its work is crucial for shaping India’s technological landscape and aligning it with national priorities. While predicting the future is inherently imprecise, TIFAC’s assessments inform policy decisions and resource allocation.

Body:

1. Mandate of TIFAC:

TIFAC’s mandate encompasses several key areas:

  • Technology Forecasting: Identifying emerging technologies and assessing their potential impact on various sectors of the Indian economy. This involves analyzing global technological trends and adapting them to the Indian context.
  • Technology Assessment: Evaluating the feasibility, economic viability, and societal implications of new technologies before their large-scale deployment. This includes considering environmental, social, and ethical aspects.
  • Technology Policy Recommendations: Providing advice to the government on technology policy formulation and implementation. This includes suggesting strategies for technology development, transfer, and diffusion.
  • Capacity Building: Promoting awareness and understanding of technology forecasting and assessment among researchers, policymakers, and industry stakeholders. This often involves training programs and workshops.
  • Strategic Studies: Conducting in-depth studies on specific technological areas crucial for national development.

2. Upcoming IT Technologies in India (around 2020):

Predicting specific technologies with certainty is difficult, but based on trends around 2020, several areas were expected to see significant growth in India’s IT sector:

  • Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML): AI and ML were poised for significant growth, with applications in various sectors like healthcare, finance, and customer service. India had a growing pool of skilled AI/ML professionals, and several startups were focusing on these technologies.
  • Big Data Analytics: The exponential growth of data necessitated robust analytics capabilities. India was expected to see increased adoption of big data technologies for better decision-making across industries.
  • Cloud Computing: Cloud adoption was rapidly increasing, offering scalability, cost-effectiveness, and flexibility to businesses of all sizes. India’s IT sector was actively developing cloud-based solutions and services.
  • Cybersecurity: With increasing digitalization, cybersecurity became paramount. The demand for cybersecurity professionals and solutions was expected to grow significantly.
  • Internet of Things (IoT): The proliferation of connected devices was driving the growth of IoT applications in areas like smart cities, healthcare, and industrial automation.
  • Blockchain Technology: While still nascent, blockchain technology was gaining traction, with potential applications in finance, supply chain management, and digital identity.

Conclusion:

TIFAC plays a vital role in shaping India’s technological trajectory by providing foresight and strategic guidance. Its mandate encompasses technology forecasting, assessment, policy recommendations, and capacity building. Around 2020, India’s IT sector was expected to witness significant growth in areas like AI/ML, big data analytics, cloud computing, cybersecurity, IoT, and blockchain. To fully realize the potential of these technologies, India needs to focus on developing a robust talent pool, fostering innovation, and creating a supportive regulatory environment. A holistic approach that considers ethical implications and societal impact is crucial for ensuring sustainable and inclusive technological development, aligning with the principles of equitable growth and national progress. TIFAC’s continued efforts in strategic technology assessment will be vital in navigating this rapidly evolving technological landscape.

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