The journey of computer science in India since independence

Vijay Garg
The journey of computer science in India since independence is a fascinating story of gradual but determined progress, transforming from a nascent field of academic research into a global powerhouse of information technology. This evolution can be broadly divided into several key phases, each marked by distinct technological, academic, and governmental developments.
The Early Years: 1950s to 1970s
 * Pioneering Beginnings: The foundation for computer science was laid in the mid-1950s. The Indian Statistical Institute (ISI) in Calcutta acquired India's first computer, the HEC-2M, in 1956. This was a crucial step, as it introduced computational power to the country for the first time, primarily for academic research and economic planning.
 * Indigenous Efforts: The Tata Institute of Fundamental Research (TIFR) in Mumbai took a significant step by designing and building India's first indigenous computer, the TIFRAC, which became operational in the early 1960s. This marked a shift from simply importing technology to actively engaging in its development.
 * Academic Foundation: The Indian Institutes of Technology (IITs), established in the 1950s and 60s, played a pivotal role. (To be contd)