Digital Leap: India as a Global Model for Inclusive Innovation

Nobel Laureate Professor Paul Romer commends India's digital revolution, highlighting its inclusive benefits across society. Romer points out India's unique government-led approach, which sets an example for countries worldwide, particularly in the Global South, to develop their digital futures without relying on richer nations.

Nobel Laureate Professor Paul Michael Romer, during a visit to India, lauded the country's digital revolution, highlighting the government's influential role in enhancing the lives of its citizens. Professor Romer stressed India's distinct global stance in digital innovation, particularly in bridging economic gaps and benefitting all societal sectors.

"India's digital revolution is unique because it benefits all of society, not just a privileged few," Romer observed, commending the nation's digital advancements. Highlighting initiatives like UPI, Aadhaar, DigiLocker, and DigiYatra, he noted these developments have streamlined daily life and widened accessibility.

Romer suggested these advancements offer lessons for other nations, especially in the Global South, illustrating the possibility of self-directed digital progress. "India's journey proves that countries can chart their own digital futures," he emphasized, encouraging others to draw confidence and inspiration from India's successes.

Addressing initial doubts about India's capability to implement extensive digital reforms, Romer noted that success isn't tied to size, referencing successes in countries like China, Singapore, Taiwan, and South Korea. "What's vital is a country's ability to decide and pursue its goals, much like India's strategic success with digital services," Romer stated.

Reflecting on the crucial role of government, Romer contrasted India's strategy with the more laissez-faire approach in Western nations, arguing that government leadership has been key to India's digital triumphs.

"The Indian experience teaches us the importance of government involvement," Romer remarked. He compared this to the introduction of safe air travel, stressing that government innovation often propels private sector growth.

"We've lost sight of how government can foster conditions for private sector success," Romer concluded, noting that India's government-led strategy could serve as a model for other nations.

(With inputs from agencies.)