Industrial Sector Updates – Industrial Policy, Ease of Doing Business, etc.

India needs to be a global champion in sunrise sectors

Note4Students

From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :

Mains level: Sunrise sectors;

Why in the News?

India must lead in emerging industries to become a developed nation and a USD 32 trillion economy by 2047. Niti Ayoge CEO stressed the need to produce solar panels and electric vehicles.

What are the Sunrise sectors?

  • Sunrise sectors refer to rapidly growing industries that are in their early stages but have high potential for expansion. These sectors attract significant venture capital and are appealing for long-term growth prospects.
  • Niti Aayog CEO believes that excelling in these sectors is crucial for India to meet its ambitious economic targets by 2047.

Key Sunrise Sectors: 

  • Electric Vehicles (EVs): With initiatives like FAME II, India aims to boost EV manufacturing and infrastructure. The sector is expected to grow significantly, contributing to sustainability and reducing dependence on fossil fuels.
  • Electronics and Semiconductors: The semiconductor market in India is projected to triple by 2026, driven by government incentives and initiatives like the PLI Scheme. This sector is vital for establishing India as a global manufacturing hub.
  • Renewable Energy: India is focusing on renewable energy sources, particularly solar power, where it currently lags behind globally by 5-7 years in manufacturing capabilities.
  • Artificial Intelligence (AI) and advanced tech: It will drive innovation, economic growth, and global competitiveness.

What are the potential impacts?

  • Economic Growth: By investing in sunrise sectors, India can drive economic growth through innovation, job creation, and industrial development. This can help bridge the gap to becoming a global economic power.
  • Sustainability: These sectors align with global sustainability goals, helping India reduce dependency on fossil fuels and transition to cleaner, more renewable energy sources, ultimately aiding in climate change mitigation.
  • Global Competitiveness: Being a leader in sunrise sectors, such as electric vehicles or solar panel manufacturing, can position India as a global hub for cutting-edge technology and innovation.

What are the challenges faced by the Sunrise Sectors in India?

  • Technological Gap: Indian industries are lagging in areas like solar panel manufacturing and electric vehicles, often 5-7 years behind global leaders. This technological gap hinders competitiveness and innovation. Example: India has not fully capitalized on the growing electric vehicle market, which is dominated by countries like China.
  • Infrastructure and Investment Deficits: India’s current infrastructure does not fully support the rapid scaling of sunrise sectors. Additionally, private credit to GDP in India is lower compared to global giants like the US and China, affecting the ability of industries to scale up. Example: Limited investments in research, development, and infrastructure for clean technology and manufacturing.
  • Policy and Regulatory Bottlenecks: India’s policy frameworks for clean technology and green industries often lack the depth and support required for aggressive global competition. There is a need for more incentives, clear regulatory guidelines, and quicker approvals for new technologies.

Way forward: 

  • Increased Investment in Research and Development: India must invest heavily in R&D for sunrise sectors, particularly in clean technologies and electric vehicle manufacturing. Government-backed initiatives and partnerships with global players can help bridge technological gaps.
  • Policy Support and Incentives: India should provide stronger policy frameworks, such as tax incentives, subsidies for clean tech investments, and faster clearances for new ventures in sunrise sectors. More investment in infrastructure, particularly for electric vehicle charging stations and renewable energy grids, is crucial.

Mains PYQ:

Q How is efficient and affordable urban mass transport key to the rapid economic development in India? (UPSC IAS/2019)

Get an IAS/IPS ranker as your 1: 1 personal mentor for UPSC 2024

Attend Now

Subscribe
Notify of
0 Comments
Inline Feedbacks
View all comments

JOIN THE COMMUNITY

Join us across Social Media platforms.

💥Mentorship January Batch Launch
💥💥Mentorship January Batch Launch