“As expected, the current government has acknowledged the importance of technology and has demonstrated vigour to promote it for socio-economic growth. Earmarking Rs 500 crore for broadband connectivity in villages, exempting all inputs/components used for manufacturing personal computers from 4 percent special additional duty (SAD),  proposal to develop 100 smart cities, and more such pro-technology initiatives are likely to boost local manufacturing of technology hardware and software. This is important in bringing economic growth, connectivity, and reducing the existing digital divide.” – Subroto Das, Director – South Asia & India, WD