PLATFORM INDEPENDENCE FOR VIKSIT BHARAT 2047: RESISTING DIGITAL COLONIALISM

Abstract

This study looks at whether India has the platform capacity required for technological independence in the context of Viksit Bharat 2047. We argue that a developed nation cannot remain dependent on foreign digital platforms. Using a thematic analysis of sixteen (N=16) media articles and reports published between 2023 and 2026, we examine India’s current platform situation. We apply digital colonialism theory as our framework to assess India’s position across social media, search, and messaging. The findings indicate that India remains heavily dependent on foreign platforms owned by Meta, X (Twitter), Google, and Microsoft. India continues to be among the largest users of platforms like WhatsApp, Facebook, Instagram, and others. There are limited domestic alternatives operating at a similar scale or global competitiveness. We argue that this dependency can create grave socioeconomic and geopolitical risks for India. For Viksit Bharat 2047 to result in genuine civilizational and technological self-reliance, India must build its own social media, search and messaging platforms.