Digital Conclave 2026 Spurs Dialogue on Technology-Led and Inclusive Growth
The Indian Institute of Management (IIM) Udaipur successfully hosted the third edition of 'D'Future – India Digital Conclave 2026' in Hyderabad, convening a diverse group of leaders from government, industry, academia, and startups. The forum centered on harnessing digital technologies to fuel economic growth, enhance systemic resilience, and ensure inclusive development in India's rapidly transforming digital landscape.
Bridging the Skill Gap for a Digital Economy
Inaugurating the conclave, Prof. Ashok Banerjee, Director of IIM Udaipur , addressed the critical demand for professionals skilled in artificial intelligence (AI) and advanced technologies . He outlined the institute's strategic response through specialized MBA programs in digital enterprise management and business analytics , designed to align curriculum with global industry demands. Prof. Banerjee also emphasized IIM Udaipur's expanding engagement with major tech hubs to foster deeper academia-industry collaboration .
Showcasing State-Led Digital Governance
Delivering the keynote address, Shri Jayesh Ranjan, Special Chief Secretary for the Government of Telangana , reflected on the transformative impact of the Digital India initiative over the past decade. He highlighted Telangana's pioneering reforms, including widespread optical fibre connectivity, digitized public service delivery, and technology applications in agriculture . Shri Ranjan stressed that sustainable, technology-led growth in emerging economies hinges on robust collaboration between government, academic institutions, and the private sector .
Harnessing AI for Societal Value Creation
A focal point of the conclave was the role of AI in driving tangible societal benefits. Prof. Ramayya Krishnan, Dean Emeritus at Carnegie Mellon University , discussed creating value through AI-enabled multilingual communication tools and healthcare applications tailored for rural areas . He underscored that realizing AI's full potential requires parallel investments in workforce upskilling, ethical AI governance frameworks, and the redesign of organizational processes .
Fostering Resilience and Showcasing Innovation
The conclave featured panel discussions on building a resilient and inclusive nation, with success stories from initiatives like the PM GatiShakti National Master Plan . It also provided a platform for student-led innovations , including AI-powered supply chain solutions. A concluding fireside chat explored the intersection of data analytics and sports performance , highlighting technology's role in grassroots inclusion. The event reinforced IIM Udaipur's role as a catalyst for meaningful dialogue at the nexus of technology, policy, and society.
Exam-Focused Important Facts:
-
Initiative: Digital India , a flagship program to transform governance via digital infrastructure and services.
-
Technology Focus: Artificial Intelligence (AI) with applications in governance, healthcare, education, and disaster management.
-
Digital Infrastructure: Optical Fibre Connectivity is fundamental for achieving digital inclusion in rural and remote areas.
-
Collaboration Model: Public-Private Partnerships (PPP) are central to India's digital transformation and innovation strategy.
-
Event: D'Future – India Digital Conclave 2026 hosted by IIM Udaipur .
Month: Current Affairs - February 04, 2026
Category: Science & Technology (AI) | Governance