Cabinet approves deal between India and Saudi Arabia on digitisation, electronic manufacturing

The Cabinet has given its approval to the Memorandum of Cooperation (MoC) signed on August 18, 2023, between the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) and the Ministry of Communications and Information Technology of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. 

The pact focusses on boosting collaboration in various aspects, including digitisation, electronic manufacturing, e-Governance, smart infrastructure, e-Health, and e-Education.

The primary objectives of the Memorandum of Cooperation include fostering partnerships in research related to digital innovation and the utilisation of emerging technologies such as Artificial Intelligence (AI), Internet of Things (IoT), Robots, Cloud Computing, and Blockchain. 

By establishing a framework for cooperation, the MoC aims to create robust partnerships between India and Saudi Arabia in the realms of digitisation and electronic manufacturing.

Additionally, the MoC seeks to encourage innovative training and development through e-Teaching, e-learning, and exchange programs in the fields of digitisation and electronics manufacturing. It also aims to develop joint training programs for capacity building and provide access to highly skilled Information and Communication Technologies professionals. 

Furthermore, the collaboration endeavours to strengthen the Small and Medium-sised Enterprises (SME) and start-up ecosystem by facilitating the exchange of information on business accelerators, venture capital, and technology start-up incubators. This collaborative effort is anticipated to generate employment opportunities for both nations.

The cooperative activities outlined in this MoC align with the broader goals of Atmanirbhar Bharat, promoting self-reliance in the areas of Digitisation and Electronic Manufacturing.