Harnessing DeepTech for Progress and Prosperity
Advitya Bahl
DeepTech, short for Deep-Technology, encompasses a wide array of revolutionary technologies aimed at address-ing complex issues faced by humanity, from healthcare and energy to agriculture and manufacturing. One of the most significant advantages of DeepTech is its ability to create positive societal and economic impacts. By addressing complex challenges, DeepTech innovations contribute to job creation, enhance metadata and resource management, and promote transparency and traceability in various industries. Moreover, DeepTech strengthens the startup ecosystem by fostering innovation and entrepreneurship.
But what exactly sets DeepTech apart from other forms of technology, and how is it shaping the landscape of innovation? Let's delve deeper into this fascinating domain and explore its various facets.
Understanding DeepTech
Unlike conventional technologies, DeepTech innovations are characterised by their profound impact and ability to tackle intricate challenges faced by humanity. These innovations are classified into four levels based on their degree of complexity and impact.
• Tech Substitute: These innovations involve incre-mental upgrades or replacements of existing technologies.
• System Upgradation: This level focuses on upgrading existing systems and processes to improve efficiency and functionality.
• System Transformation: Innovations at this level entail altering or changing entire systems or processes to address specific challenges.
• System of System Transformation: This represents a complete overhaul of existing systems or processes, leading to transformative changes on a larger scale.
DeepTech Versus Other Technologies
Unlike high-tech startups, which often target specific business problems or optimisation needs within existing industries, DeepTech startups delve into cutting-edge scientific research and engineering innovations to address broader issues facing humanity.
India's DeepTech Eco-system
Historically overshadowed by its reputation as an IT powerhouse, India possesses deep scientific and industrial capabilities nurtured through investments in institutions such as the Indian Institutes of Technology (IITs), Indian Institutes of Science Education and Research (IISERs), Indian Institute of Science (IISc), Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO), and Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) labs post-independence. How-ever, in the 2010s, a surge in entrepreneurial activity, coupled with advancements in research, propelled India's technology credentials into specialised niches like space and defence, with DeepTech solutions permeating sectors ranging from health-care to energy.
Key inflection points include the take-off of space tech following ISRO's Mars Orbital Mission in 2013, which catalysed a wave of private space startups and downstream application-focused companies. Additionally, key policy initiatives bolstered the startup ecosystem, with DeepTech emerging as an important focus area. Notable successes in DeepTech, including AI startup Fractal Analytics, robotics firm GreyOrange, and space startup Kawa Space, garnered global attention, further driving interest in the sector. Moreover, policy prioritisation of DeepTech within frameworks like the National Education Policy 2020 and Draft National Science and Technology Policy underscored its economic significance.
Today, the DeepTech startup scene in India has matured significantly, boasting over 3,000 companies that have experienced a remarkable 53 percent Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) over the past decade, as outlined in a report by Nasscom, the leading authority for India's $245 billion technology industry. Spanning strategic areas such as drones and biotech, with total funding surpassing $7 billion (mid-2022), major venture capital funds have established dedicated DeepTech practices, and industry leaders have expressed ambitions to foster scientific innovation. The stage is thus set for India's DeepTech ecosystem to take flight and realise its full potential.
Moreover, the imminent release of the National Deep Tech Startup Policy (NDTSP) marks a significant milestone. Currently in the feedback phase, its announcement is eagerly anticipated. Looking ahead to 2030, India's ambitious goal is to nurture a thriving ecosystem, envisioning the emergence of at least 10,000 deep-tech startups. With dedication and determination, many of the existing ventures hold the promise of achieving global recognition within their respective domains, a testament to the potential of our nation's innovation landscape.
India's Emerging DeepTech Hubs
Certain innovation clusters in India have emerged as focal points for technological advancement and startup activity. While DeepTech startups are dispersed across
the country, these hubs have garnered attention for their concentration of research institutions, corporate R&D centers, venture capital funds, and supportive ecosystems conducive to DeepTech innovation.
Bengaluru: Often regarded as India's premier technology
hub, Bengaluru boasts a rich ecosystem of research institutions, corporate R&D centers, and venture capital funds tailored to support DeepTech startups. Key components of Bengaluru's DeepTech ecosystem include renowned research institutions such as the Indian Institute of Science (IISc), Institute for Stem Cell Science and Regenerative Medicine (InStem), and Jawaharlal Nehru Centre for Advanced Scientific Re-search (JNCASR). Additionally, corporate giants like GE, Airbus, Bosch, and Accenture Labs have established a presence in the city, further enriching the techno-logical landscape. Venture capital firms such as Accel India, Chiratae Ventures, and Blume Ventures play a pivotal role in providing funding and support to DeepTech startups in Bengaluru. The city's ability to attract top-tier talent and foster collaboration among various stakeholders has propelled breakthrough innovations in fields such as biotechnology, autonomous systems, space technology, and robotics.
Mumbai: As India's financial capital, Mumbai harbours a robust ecosystem of venture funds, family offices, and corporate entities that contribute to the growth of DeepTech startups. The city's financial ecosystem, bolstered by high-net-worth individuals (HNIs) and prominent venture capital firms like Kae Capital and pi Ventures, provides ample funding opportunities for aspiring entrepreneurs. Corporate support from industry giants such as Reliance and Godrej, coupled with access to infrastructure through Tata trusts and Research and Development (R&D) linkages with companies like Tata Consultancy Services (TCS) and Tech Mahindra, further enhances Mumbai's appeal as a DeepTech hub. The city's strategic position as a financial and commercial center facilitates market-aligned deep science ventures, as evidenced by the success of companies like Praj Industries in the biofuel sector.
New Delhi & NCR: The political and administrative heart of India, New Delhi, and the National Capital Region (NCR) serve as hubs for technological policy discourse and government-backed re-search initiatives. Institutions such as the Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) and specialised zones like the research park at the Indian Institute of Technology Delhi (IIT Delhi) contribute to the region's research prowess and innovation ecosystem. Government entities like NITI Aayog and the Office of the Principal Scientific Adviser (PSA) spearhead technology policy discussions, while initiatives such as Atal Innovation Mission (AIM), Biotechnology Industry Research Assistance Council (BIRAC), and Technology Development Board (TDB) support entrepreneurship and innovation. Delhi and its environs have witnessed the rise of defence technology startups like NewSpace, Idea-Forge, and Aerobiosys, leve-raging state R&D infrastructure to develop strategic innovations.
In addition, initiatives such as the RISE Foundation incubator, launched in collaboration with the Indian Institute of Science Education and Research (IISER) Kolkata, focus on fostering science-based trans-lational research and startups, particularly in the northeastern region of India. These Deep-Tech hubs leverage specialised infrastructure, research excellence, funding sources, and commercial connectivity to drive cutting-edge innovations and propel India's position as a global DeepTech leader.
DeepTech Other Technologies
Involves advanced scientific principles and research. May involve simpler concepts or known technologies.
Often involves groundbreaking innovations. May focus on incremental improvements or optimisations.
Typically requires significant R&D investment. Investment may vary depending on the technology and scope.
Longer development cycles due to complexity. Development may be quicker depending on the technology.
Higher risks due to technological uncertainties. Risks may be lower as technologies are better understood.
Often involves patents for unique algorithms or methodologies. Intellectual property protection varies depending on the technology and application.
Has the potential to disrupt entire industries. May have localised or niche impacts.
Requires highly skilled scientists and engineers. May require diverse skill sets depending on the technology.
Applications of DeepTech
Healthcare
Cutting-edge innovations like remote patient monitoring systems, advanced disease diagnosis techniques, and blockchain-powered health management platforms are reshaping the landscape of healthcare delivery. These technologies empower healthcare providers to deliver personalised care, enhance patient outcomes, and improve overall efficiency in the healthcare ecosystem. DeepTech is being explored to address challenges such as:
• Access to healthcare in remote or underserved areas.
• Rising healthcare costs and inefficiencies.
• Chronic disease management and prevention.
Energy
DeepTech innovations are pivotal in driving the optimisation of renewable energy sources, effective management of energy storage systems, and the development of carbon capture technologies, all of which are critical for advancing sustainability efforts. These technologies enable the transition towards cleaner and more efficient energy production, contributing to the global shift towards renewable energy sources and mitigating environmental impacts. DeepTech is used to tackle challenges such as:
• Climate change and carbon emissions reduction.
• Energy access and affordability.
• Energy grid optimisation and reliability.
Manufacturing & Industrial Automation
From predictive maintenance algorithms to supply chain optimisation tools and advanced process automation systems, DeepTech solutions are driving significant improvements in efficiency and productivity within the manufacturing sector. These technologies enable manufacturers to minimise downtime, optimise production processes, and adapt to dynamic market demands, ultimately enhancing competitiveness and profitability. DeepTech is used to tackle challenges such as:
• Industry 4.0 transformation and digitalisation.
• Workforce reskilling and labor shortages.
• Environmental sustainability and waste reduction.
Agriculture
The integration of precision spraying techniques, automated harvesting systems, and AI-driven supply chain management solutions is revolutionising agricultural practices. By enhancing efficiency and productivity across the agricultural value chain, these technologies enable farmers to optimise resource utilisation, reduce waste, and ensure food security amidst evolving environmental and market challenges. DeepTech is explored to address issues such as:
• Food security and sustainable agriculture.
• Climate change impacts on crop yields and resilience.
• Water scarcity and efficient irrigation management.
Material Science & Nano-Technology
Science & Nano-Technology Material science and nano-technology are making big strides. Scientists are finding new ways to understand tiny particles and design materials using computers. They're also making tiny medical devices. These breakthroughs can lead to materials with special abilities. These materials could change industries like electronics, aerospace, and healthcare. They could make things lighter, tougher, and last longer. They could also help create new medical treatments and ways to deliver medicine.
DeepTech helps solve problems like:
• Making materials that are good for the environment and can be reused.
• Checking if materials are safe for the body.
• Finding better ways to store and use energy in materials.
Information Technology
The convergence of transformative technologies such as cloud computing, Artificial Intelligence (AI), blockchain, and quantum computing is fuelling innovation and driving digital transformation across various sectors. These technologies empower organisations to develop scaleable and secure IT solutions tailored to their specific needs, enabling them to harness the power of data, automate processes, and unlock new opportunities for growth and innovation. DeepTech is explored to address issues such as:
• Cybersecurity threats and data privacy.
• Digital divide and access to technology.
• Ethical and responsible AI development and deployment.
(The author is Delhi-based correspondent of a leading national daily. Feedback on this article can be sent to feedback.employmentnews@gmail.com)
Views expressed are personal.