Cellular modules have become highly important in today’s lives. The modules help run things in factories and homes. We can control stuff from far away. These are also needed for things like power, deliveries, healthcare and safety. But here is the worry. Lots of Chinese companies are taking over this market.
Chinese firms such as QUECTEL, FIBOCOM, SUNSEA, NEOWAY and MEIG have established a virtual monopoly in the global market, including India, with a staggering 64% market share by sales and 75% by connectivity as of late 2022. Even though these companies seem private, they have to follow China’s laws about security.
Charles Parton, an expert in international affairs, warns that depending too heavily on Chinese technology can be risky for free countries. Firstly, if something goes wrong, it could disrupt our supply chains and important services. Secondly, it lets the Chinese government have too much control in secret, like changing software without anyone knowing. And thirdly, it means other countries won’t have control over their own technology, making them just pawns in China’s plan to be in charge everywhere.
It is important to tell people about these dangers to keep India safe and independent in the digital world. It is simultaneously important that everyone should realize how serious the issue is.
India need to make sure its technology stays safe and remains in control, even when other countries try to influence it. By making its defenses stronger against the risk of cellular IoT modules and using new ideas to solve problems, India can become stronger and better able to handle things on the world stage.
Nitin A. Gokhale’s insightful discussion with Charles Parton highlights the urgent need for concerted action to address this pressing issue.
