Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman announced that artificial intelligence, semiconductors, and quantum computing will drive the next phase of India’s national infrastructure. Speaking at the 7th IIT Madras Alumni Association (IITMAA) Sangam, she urged young entrepreneurs and deep-tech startups to build advanced solutions for core economic sectors.
KEY HIGHLIGHTS FROM FM ADDRESS
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| Core Next-Gen Sectors | Artificial Intelligence, Semiconductors, Quantum |
| Space Sector Impact | Startups building satellites & launching missions |
| Economic Growth Target| Capability to cross 10% annual GDP growth |
| Funding Requirement | Patient capital for pre-revenue deep-tech ventures |
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Deep-Tech Startups Need Patient Capital and Early Funding
FM Sitharaman highlighted the opening of strategic sectors like space, where Indian startups now design satellites and lead space missions. However, she emphasized that pre-revenue deep-tech and hardware ventures require new early-stage funding mechanisms and patient capital to scale effectively.
The Finance Minister praised IIT Madras for creating dedicated funds to nurture early-stage startups. She cited the initiative as a prime model of government, academia, and industry collaboration.
MSME & DEEP-TECH INTEGRATION GOALS
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| Target Enterprise Segment | MSMEs (Components to Aircraft Parts) |
| Primary Technology Need | Accessible AI Productivity Tools |
| Strategic Objective | Global Competitiveness & Local Supply |
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MSMEs Must Adopt AI Solutions to Compete Globally
Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) produce components ranging from basic industrial parts to advanced aircraft equipment. Sitharaman urged small businesses to adopt AI solutions to boost productivity and compete on the global stage.
She added that India possesses the potential to achieve over 10 percent GDP growth. Unlocking this trajectory requires sustained cross-sectoral collaboration to turn technology talent into long-term economic strength.
The “Atmanirbhar Bharat” themed conference featured key leaders, including Education Minister Pralhad Joshi, IIT Madras Director Prof. V. Kamakoti, Zoho Chief Scientist Dr. Sridhar Vembu, and Sarvam AI Co-founder Dr. Pratyush Kumar.
