The Man Behind Infosys - REAL Success Story | Kris Gopalakrishnan | SparX
May 3, 2025
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Kris Gopalakrishnan, co-founder of Infosys and a leading figure in India's tech landscape, shares his inspiring journey in this conversation. He discusses the IT industry's evolution and highlights the critical role of foundational research in AI and brain science. Gopalakrishnan advocates for a synergy between academia and entrepreneurship to drive India's next big leap. He also sheds light on groundbreaking brain research in India and the importance of nurturing the innovation ecosystem for a sustainable future.
Kris Gopalakrishnan emphasizes the importance of foundational research in artificial intelligence and brain science for India's technological future.
The evolution of India's IT industry was driven by a pioneering spirit and collaboration among early entrepreneurs to establish global recognition.
For India to strengthen its innovation ecosystem, Gopalakrishnan advocates for increased investment in research and development, targeting 2-3% of GDP.
Deep dives
The Genesis of India's IT Industry
The foundation of India's IT industry traces back to the 1980s when there was little support for startups or funding. Graduates aimed to leverage local talent rather than relocate abroad, fueled by the introduction of the personal computer in 1981. Entrepreneurs realized an opportunity to write software for Western businesses by utilizing their skills, operating within an environment where traditional business communication relied on fax and telex. This pioneering spirit led to the establishment of firms like Infosys, which began by developing software solutions for Western clients while navigating government restrictions on importing computers.
Challenges and Early Growth
In its early years, the IT industry in India faced significant hurdles, including bureaucratic limitations and a lack of infrastructure for business operations. Initially, firms had to provide all services and software in a bundled manner as individual components were not allowed. Despite these challenges, early companies secured long-term contracts with clients by delivering high-quality software solutions, building a solid reputation in the industry. These foundational relationships with key clients helped to spread awareness of Indian software capabilities globally.
The Role of Education and Academic Institutions
The early push for computer science education in India, exemplified by institutions like IIT Kanpur and IIT Madras, laid the groundwork for a skilled workforce. From the 1960s, these institutes recognized the importance of computing for future growth and initiated programs in computer science. However, while academic achievements helped in skill development, India shifted focus toward software rather than hardware manufacturing, losing ground in that area. This pivot towards software education facilitated the growth of a vibrant IT services sector that has become a significant contributor to the national economy.
Collaboration and Ecosystem Development
The collaborative spirit among early IT entrepreneurs, despite fierce competition, was instrumental in establishing a robust IT ecosystem in India. Founders worked together to promote industry standards and positions, fostering recognition for Indian software on the global stage. This cooperation extended to engagements with the Indian government, which streamlined processes for the software services industry through initiatives like NASCOM. As a result, by the late 1990s and early 2000s, companies began realizing substantial revenue growth, marking India as a legitimate player in global technology markets.
Vision for the Future: Emphasizing R&D and Innovation
Looking ahead, the future of India's IT industry hinges on increased investment in research and development, as the current expenditure falls short compared to developed nations. A call to elevate R&D funding towards 2-3% of GDP highlights the need for strategic focus on creating original intellectual property and advancing technology. By fostering an environment where academia and industry engage in translational research, India can position itself at the forefront of emerging technologies. This progressive vision aims to address both domestic challenges and global market demands, ultimately leading to sustainable development and economic resilience.
Join us for an insightful conversation with Kris Gopalakrishnan, co-founder of Infosys and one of India’s foremost technology entrepreneurs. In this episode, we explore his remarkable journey — from the early days of building Infosys to his ongoing contributions to deep-tech research, innovation, and philanthropy.
Mr. Gopalakrishnan shares his thoughts on the evolution of India’s IT industry, the importance of foundational research in artificial intelligence and brain science, and why he believes the next big leap for India must be led by academia and entrepreneurship. He also reflects on his work with institutions like IIT Madras and the Centre for Brain Research at IISc, and his efforts to nurture India’s innovation ecosystem.
Whether you’re a student, a tech enthusiast, or someone interested in the future of Indian research and enterprise, this episode offers valuable perspectives on leadership, vision, and nation-building.
