What is TIFAC (Technology Information Forecasting and Assessment Council), give its mandate. Enlist the upcoming technologies in India by 2020 in 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 by 2020 (Note: The question specifies 2020, which is in the past. The answer will address this by discussing technologies predicted around that time and their subsequent development).

Introduction:

TIFAC (Technology Information, Forecasting and Assessment Council) is a premier autonomous body under the Department of Science and Technology (DST), Government of India. Established in 1988, its primary mandate is to provide strategic foresight and guidance on technology development and deployment in India. TIFAC undertakes technology assessments, forecasts future technological trends, and identifies areas requiring focused research and development. Its work informs policy decisions and helps shape India’s technological trajectory. While predicting the future with complete accuracy is impossible, TIFAC’s reports and analyses have played a significant role in shaping India’s technological landscape. This response will explore TIFAC’s mandate and examine the IT technologies predicted for India around 2020, considering their actual development.

Body:

1. TIFAC’s Mandate:

TIFAC’s mandate encompasses several key areas:

  • Technology Forecasting: Identifying emerging technologies and predicting their potential impact on various sectors.
  • Technology Assessment: Evaluating the feasibility, economic viability, and social implications of new technologies.
  • Technology Policy Recommendations: Advising the government on science and technology policies and strategies.
  • Technology Diffusion: Promoting the adoption and dissemination of new technologies.
  • Capacity Building: Developing human resources in the field of technology forecasting and assessment.
  • International Collaboration: Engaging in international collaborations to share knowledge and best practices.

TIFAC achieves this through various activities, including conducting studies, organizing workshops and conferences, and publishing reports and publications.

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

Predicting technologies around 2020 requires looking at forecasts made in the preceding years. Many reports and analyses around that time highlighted the following as key upcoming areas in India’s IT sector:

  • Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML): AI and ML were already gaining traction, with predictions of significant growth in applications like natural language processing, computer vision, and robotics. This prediction proved largely accurate, with India witnessing a surge in AI/ML adoption across various sectors.

  • Big Data Analytics: The exponential growth of data necessitated advanced analytics capabilities. The focus was on developing infrastructure and expertise to handle and analyze large datasets for better decision-making across industries. This area also saw significant growth, fueled by the increasing availability of data and improved analytical tools.

  • Cloud Computing: Cloud computing was expected to become increasingly prevalent, offering scalability, cost-effectiveness, and accessibility. India saw a rapid expansion of cloud infrastructure and services, with major global players establishing a strong presence.

  • Cybersecurity: With increasing digitalization, cybersecurity became a critical concern. The focus was on developing robust cybersecurity solutions and skilled professionals to protect against cyber threats. This prediction remains highly relevant, with cybersecurity continuing to be a major challenge.

  • Internet of Things (IoT): The IoT was predicted to transform various sectors, from smart homes and cities to industrial automation. While the growth of IoT in India has been significant, it faces challenges related to infrastructure, standardization, and security.

  • Blockchain Technology: Blockchain technology, beyond cryptocurrencies, was seen as having potential applications in various sectors, including supply chain management and digital identity. While adoption is growing, it is still in its relatively early stages in India.

Conclusion:

TIFAC plays a crucial role in shaping India’s technological future by providing strategic foresight and guidance. The IT technologies predicted around 2020 – AI/ML, Big Data Analytics, Cloud Computing, Cybersecurity, IoT, and Blockchain – have largely materialized, though at varying paces. While some, like AI/ML and cloud computing, have seen rapid adoption, others like blockchain technology still require further development and wider acceptance. Moving forward, India needs to focus on fostering innovation, developing skilled human resources, and addressing challenges related to infrastructure, digital literacy, and cybersecurity to fully leverage the potential of these technologies and ensure inclusive and sustainable technological growth. A holistic approach that integrates technological advancements with social and economic development is crucial for realizing India’s technological aspirations.

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