Political History Of Technology In India - Witness the Transformation!

A Glimpse Into India's Technological Evolution

India, a country with a rich historical and cultural heritage, has also played a key role in shaping the world of technology. From ancient inventions to modern advancements, the political history of technology in India is a fascinating journey that showcases the country's remarkable contributions.

Let's delve into the annals of time and uncover the political dynamics that have influenced the growth of technology in India.

Midnight’s Machines: A Political History of Technology in India

by Arun Mohan Sukumar (Kindle Edition)

4.4 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	1356 KB
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Ancient India - The Cradle of Innovation

India's technological prowess can be traced back to ancient times. The Indus Valley Civilization, one of the world's oldest urban societies, was renowned for its sophisticated urban planning, plumbing systems, and an early form of writing. These advancements were made possible due to the political stability and social organization prevalent during that period.

The Maurya Empire, under the reign of Emperor Ashoka, played a significant role in shaping ancient India's technological landscape. Ashoka's patronage of scholars and scientists led to remarkable advancements in medicine, metallurgy, and architecture. The construction of the grand Sanchi Stupa stands as a testament to India's technological achievements during this era.

Mughal Era - Blending Science and Art

The Mughal Empire, with its opulence and grandeur, also paved the way for significant technological advancements in India. Emperor Akbar, known for his progressive policies, established the "Hindustani Manufacturing Company." This organization aimed to develop indigenous technologies, promoting industries like textiles, shipbuilding, and mining.

One of India's most iconic technological marvels, the Taj Mahal, was constructed during the Mughal era. Its architectural brilliance combined with intricate detailing showcases the fusion of art and engineering in India's political landscape.

Colonization and Impact on Technology

The arrival of European powers, primarily the British, brought about significant changes in India's technological landscape. During colonial rule, the British prioritized advancements that suited their interests, such as introducing railways, telegraph systems, and irrigation networks.

However, these developments were largely driven by political motives and served the colonial administration rather than the benefit of the Indian population. The colonization era marked a phase of dependency, with limited scope for indigenous technological growth.

Independence and Self-Reliance

The post-independence period in India witnessed a surge in efforts towards technological self-reliance. Leaders like Jawaharlal Nehru recognized the importance of scientific and technological progress for the country's development.

The establishment of institutions like the Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) and the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) fueled India's strides in various fields. Notable achievements include India's first satellite, "Aryabhata," and the successful Mars Orbiter Mission.

Technology in Modern India - A Catalyst for Change

Today, India stands as a global powerhouse in the field of technology. The country has witnessed unprecedented growth in areas such as information technology, telecommunications, and pharmaceuticals.

Political initiatives like the "Digital India" campaign aim to transform India into a digitally empowered society, bridging the digital divide and providing equal access to technology-driven services. The implementation of Aadhaar, a biometric identification system, and the of mobile payment platforms are revolutionizing the way Indians connect and transact.

The Future - Unveiling New Horizons

As India continues on its technological journey, the political climate will undoubtedly play a crucial role in shaping the future. The government's policies and investment in research and development will determine India's standing in the global technological landscape.

With advancements in artificial intelligence, renewable energy, and space exploration, India has a world of opportunities before it. The convergence of politics and technology will shape not only India's future but also impact the world at large.

In

The political history of technology in India highlights the indomitable spirit of innovation and progress. From ancient civilizations to modern-day advancements, India has consistently contributed to the global technological landscape.

As we witness this epic journey, let us celebrate the interplay of politics and technology that has shaped India's past, present, and future.

Midnight’s Machines: A Political History of Technology in India

by Arun Mohan Sukumar (Kindle Edition)

4.4 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	1356 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	233 pages

FREE

Every Prime Minister of independent India has guided, if not personally overseen, one prized portfolio: technology. If, in the early years, Nehru and his scientist-advisors retained an iron grip on it, subsequent governments created a bureaucracy that managed everything from the country's crown jewels-its nuclear and space programmes-to solar stoves and mechanized bullock carts.

But a lesser-known political project began on 15 August 1947: the Indian state's undertaking to influence what the citizens thought about technology and its place in society. Beneath its soaring rhetoric on the virtues or vices of technology, the state buried a grim reality: India's inability to develop it at home. The political class sent contradictory signals to the general public. On the one hand, they were asked to develop a scientific temper, on the other, to be wary of becoming enslaved to technology; to be thrilled by the spectacle of a space launch while embracing jugaad, frugal innovation, and the art of 'thinking small'. To mask its failure at building computers, the Indian state decried them in the seventies as expensive, job-guzzling machines. When it urged citizens to welcome them the next decade, the government was, unsurprisingly, met with fierce resistance. From Jawaharlal Nehru to Narendra Modi, India's political leadership has tried its best to modernize the nation through technology, but on its own terms and with little success.

In this engaging and panoramic history spanning the arc of modern India from the post-War years to present day, Arun Mohan Sukumar gives us the long view with a reasoned, occasionally provocative standpoint, using a lens that's wide enough for the frame it encompasses. With compelling arguments drawn from archival public records and open-source reportage, he unearths the reasons why India embraced or rejected new technologies, giving us a new way to understand and appreciate the individual moments that brought the country into the twenty-first century.