India Advances Deep Tech Amid Climate Tech Setbacks, $44 Billion Space Economy Growth, Operation Sindoor, and US Robotics Partnership

India's deep technology sectors, including climate tech, space tech, and defense technology, are experiencing both opportunities and challenges as the country seeks to enhance innovation and global competitiveness. The climate tech sector faces setbacks due to systemic issues, policy gaps, and a credibility crisis, which have stifled growth and innovation. Investor expectations for end-to-end value chains in India contrast with China's specialized ecosystem that fosters focused innovation. Meanwhile, Indian states such as Gujarat, Tamil Nadu, and Telangana are actively competing to capture a share of the projected $44 billion space economy by 2033, marking a shift from a global to a domestic space race. Following Operation Sindoor, India is accelerating its satellite-based intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) capabilities to improve persistent coverage. Homegrown defense technology companies are also advancing innovations rooted in Indian capabilities. Additionally, India is positioned to become a trusted ecosystem partner in robotics for the United States, leveraging its cost efficiencies, electronics manufacturing strength, and software expertise. Experts emphasize the need for India to emulate global deep tech leaders by continuously funding research and development, shaping policy, and integrating deep tech into long-term statecraft beyond electoral cycles.