
Lag
I was born in the year when Apple computers launched LISA the first popular computer with GUI ( Graphical User Interface ). However I owned a computer two decades later.
Amazon was launched in 1994. However it came to India in 2012. Almost after 18 years. Netflix entered India after 20 years. Uber after 5 years. First Apple iPhone was never launched in India. Only year later, the second version was launched.
There has been a lag in almost every introduction or launch of new product or technology in India. First in place, there is lag in academic research to industry in the U.S or any developed country and further lag to enter Indian market. Why?
- Network Infrastructure Issues : Even though the network, bandwidth and soft-infrastructure is better compared to earlier years, it is no way close to developed nations. It is not consistent and reliable. Since most of the new-age products are heavily based on cloud computing, it becomes even more critical to have solid network and communications system. Very few cities have access to reliable high bandwidth internet and decent mobile network.
- Physical Infrastructure : Roads , transport, navigation, traffic management are tough problems India is facing. Bangalore one of the entry points for any technology is struggling to overcome traffic and pollution issues. So any company which relies on physical infrastructure takes a major hit while trying to launch in India.
So Autonomous / Self Driving Cars can’t be expected anywhere in next 10 years. Even electric cars seems difficult without a network of charging stations on the highways, which might easily take 3–4 years.
Is there a way to overcome these hurdles? Can we make any technology or a service enter India at the same time it is launched anywhere else?
Or should I wish that the Electricity board doesn’t dig up the newly laid tar road near my house and leave it open for 2 months only to have a pothole for an year. Pollution board regulate effectively so that lakes doesn’t overflow with poisonous foam.
Better planning, efficient execution and responsible countrymen can cure this lag.

