India’s unmatched strength in data collection and usage could position it as the source of the world’s next major technological disruption, according to Claude Smadja, former Managing Director of the World Economic Forum (WEF). Speaking at IGIC 2025, Smadja said the country has reached an inflection point in both its domestic trajectory and its global standing.
Unparalleled data capacity fuels global tech leadership potential
Smadja, now Chairman of Smadja & Smadja Strategic Advisory, described India’s “unique superiority” in big data as a powerful asset for AI and deep tech innovation. These technologies require vast datasets to function effectively—an area where India holds a significant edge due to its demographic scale, digital public infrastructure, and fast-expanding data economy.
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“The next big surprise could come from India in the domain of data and big data,” he said, noting that this advantage could accelerate India’s rise as a global tech hub.
Global landscape shifting as India gains ground
In comparing India’s prospects with other global players, Smadja argued that the United States is gradually losing its global dominance, while China has successfully navigated structural challenges to consolidate power. Amid these shifts, India now has an opportunity to assert leadership in technology innovation and entrepreneurship.
“It is the right time, the right global conditions to try to assert leadership ambitions in some technological domain,” Smadja said, urging India to seize this momentum.
From promise to execution: A critical juncture for India
Reflecting on more than five decades of engagement with India, Smadja described the country’s development path as a “roller coaster” of promise and derailments. He cautioned that while India has long been recognised for its potential, this is a moment that demands execution.
India must now accelerate its innovation ecosystem and establish itself as a global centre for technological breakthroughs. With the right focus, Smadja noted, the country could transform its data advantage into a long-term leadership role in the global digital economy.
