The latest report of the World Economic Forum on network readiness ranks India at 50 out of 127 countries. What’s more important is that it has found India static in terms of the score since last year, while other countries, including China and Sri Lanka, have gained considerably.

That must not become the trend. For a competitive edge in the global market, huge ICT investments are needed. While market research reports may point to huge potential in this sector, there’s other evidence as well to suggest that the country is not moving fast enough to strengthen its ICT infrastructure—broadband connectivity, rural penetration of computers, regulati-ons such as cyber law, et al.

Investments also spell the need for a large skilled and talented workforce, but only a fraction of technical and other graduates are employable. Yet, more and better technical education seems a tall dream, given bad policy and regulation. There’s too much at stake. ICT is not only a market driver, but also a critical factor in ensuring growth with equity.