India has been selected as one of just four countries globally to host a new World Economic Forum (WEF) Centre for the Fourth Industrial Revolution, underscoring the nation’s growing role in shaping the future of technology, innovation and governance in the digital age. The announcement places India alongside other strategic partners chosen for their potential to contribute to global policy frameworks and collaborative initiatives related to emerging technologies.
The Fourth Industrial Revolution refers to a wave of innovation driven by artificial intelligence, robotics, quantum computing, biotechnology, nanotechnology and other advanced fields that are transforming industries and societies. The WEF centres are designed to bring together governments, business leaders, academics and civil society to co-design frameworks that ensure responsible, inclusive and human-centric deployment of cutting-edge technologies.
As a host country, India will collaborate with the WEF and partner organisations to pilot technology governance models, test regulatory sandboxes and promote international best practices. Focus areas are expected to include ethical AI, data governance, digital identity systems, smart infrastructure and inclusive technology policy. India’s large digital ecosystem, expanding startup landscape and ambitious national initiatives in digital services and innovation were cited as key factors in its selection.
Officials welcomed the announcement as an opportunity to amplify India’s voice in global discussions on technology governance and digital transformation. They said participation in the WEF programme will enhance knowledge exchange, attract investment and support the development of standards that balance innovation with societal safeguards.
Industry groups and think tanks said the centre’s presence could also accelerate public-private cooperation on
The initiative marks a further step in India’s engagement with international innovation platforms and reinforces its positioning as a key player in shaping equitable and future-ready digital ecosystems. Officials noted that detailed plans, governance structures and pilot projects will be unveiled in the coming months as preparations for the centre’s operations proceed.
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