India as a Digital Powerhouse: An Assessment of Young India’s Aspirations

The Young India and Tech Survey is grounded in the concept of what is called the ‘digital trilemma’ between individual privacy, national security, and economic development. Young India’s priorities have been made clear.

The 2024 survey reveals that the youth are prioritising economic development and national security over individual privacy. On one hand, the success of DPIs like UPI and the predatory behaviour of Big Tech has driven home the need for transparency and regulation. On the other hand, continued wariness of Chinese technology and interests play a role in shaping security perceptions. This pushback against foreign tech platforms and Chinese security threats have led to a willingness to compromise individual privacy for the good of national security.

India’s rapid digital transformation is characterised by innovative public infrastructure and inclusive technology initiatives. Domestically, Young India has called for greater transparency, regulation, and accountability from the government but is also deeply aware of the challenges that the country faces as it continues to establish itself in the global digital economy.