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In 2024, technology had a significant impact across various industries, with key advancements in healthcare, education, language learning, and depth. Healthcare saw the increased use of digital tools like telemedicine and AI, improving access to care, especially in remote areas. Education has adopted AI and data-driven tools, though challenges in bridging the gap between theoretical knowledge and practical skills remain. Generative AI personalized language learning, while also addressing regional language needs. Meanwhile, deep tech innovations have gained momentum, supported by government initiatives.

Looking ahead to 2025, collaboration, scalability, and sustainability will be crucial in ensuring these technological advances have a broad and lasting impact. Below are the views shared by experts from various sectors.

Dr Sabine Kapasi, Co-Founder and MD, of Enira Consulting Pvt Ltd believes tools like telemedicine and AI provide a way to access medical expertise without the hurdles of long travel or limited availability of specialists

"In 2024, healthcare saw a gradual move toward adopting digital tools like telemedicine and AI. For patients in remote or underserved areas, telemedicine provides a way to access medical expertise without the hurdles of long travel or limited availability of specialists. AI has become a helpful tool for healthcare providers, aiding in complex diagnoses and treatment strategies. Instead of overshadowing human judgment, it complemented the decision-making process, particularly in scenarios where resources were stretched thin," said Dr. Sabine Kapsi.

"A significant wave of investment is anticipated in 2025 as AI technologies and healthcare use cases mature, building upon the advancements and lessons of 2024. These investments are expected to drive innovation in diagnostics, personalized medicine, and operational efficiencies, making healthcare more accessible and effective for all," Kapsi added.

Looking ahead to 2025, collaboration is expected to play a key role in addressing inclusivity and scalability within healthcare systems. Governments, technology innovators, and medical professionals are working together to create frameworks that ensure advancements reach everyone equitably. There’s also growing attention on sustainable healthcare practices—ensuring innovation doesn’t exclude those who need it most while promoting environmentally responsible approaches to health services.

Sumit Shukla, CEO, of Scholars Merit sees a significant change in the education sector due to the rise of AI and data-driven tools.

"Education in 2024 has seen significant changes, particularly with the rise of AI and data-driven tools that are helping to personalize learning. However, there are still gaps in sectors like IT, where many students graduate with a strong theoretical understanding but lack the practical skills that employers demand. The curriculum in many colleges and universities is often outdated, relying heavily on theory while not keeping pace with the rapid advances in technology. As a result, graduates can find themselves unprepared for the realities of the job market," said Sumit Shukla.

"In 2025, one of the key trends will be increased collaboration between colleges, universities, and EdTech platforms. These partnerships are set to bridge the gap between academic learning and industry needs. The focus will shift towards offering a comprehensive blend of technical expertise and soft skills. It’s important not only to master technologies like cloud computing, NoSQL databases, AI, and machine learning but also to develop skills such as critical thinking, problem-solving, and communication—skills that are crucial in today’s job market," he added.

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Meanwhile, Arpit Mittal, Founder and CEO, SpeakX said that the AI is transforming the language education, moving away from outdated standardized methods

"In 2024, generative AI transformed language education by offering personalized approaches, moving away from outdated standardized methods. AI-driven tools now adapt to individual learning needs in real time, making language acquisition more accessible and effective. For many Indians, especially in underserved regions, improving English proficiency continues to unlock better job prospects. However, concerns around data privacy and ethical AI practices remain critical and need focused attention," said Arpit Mittal.

"By 2025, the emphasis will likely shift to integrating technology with innovative teaching strategies. Generative AI is expected to go beyond grammar instruction, fostering cultural understanding through contextual learning. Such advancements could make language learning more meaningful, enabling deeper connections across diverse communities," he added. 

Ankit Anand, Founding Partner, Riceberg Ventures believes  the deep tech sector has emerged as a key driver of innovation, with technologies like artificial intelligence, biotechnology, and quantum computing continuing to shape industries and tackle global challenges

"As 2024 comes to an end, the deep tech sector has emerged as a key driver of innovation, with technologies like artificial intelligence, biotechnology, and quantum computing continuing to shape industries and tackle global challenges. This year, we have witnessed the growing importance of government intervention in nurturing the sector, with several states setting a strong example of how to create an environment conducive to deep tech growth. States like Andhra Pradesh have taken the lead by developing dedicated funds, building research hubs, and fostering collaborations between startups, academic institutions, and global experts. These initiatives not only de-risk deep tech ventures but also provide the essential resources that startups need to thrive," said Ankit. 

Meanwhile, Sushant Roy, Co-Founder, COO & CBO at Alyve Health said, "As we approach the end of 2024, it’s a moment to reflect on the remarkable journey of growth and transformation that has defined this year for Alyve Health. As we are heading towards 2025, we appreciate the MoU signed between India and Singapore, which enhances healthcare collaboration, focusing on disease surveillance, maternal health, and improving health outcomes through innovative solutions and technology sharing. In the coming year, we will further enhance our technology-driven healthcare approach. With the right strategic partnerships, behavioural science-backed products, and innovations that fit with the healthcare landscape of our members, we expect a much bigger reach. Our focus will remain on personalizing, enhancing, and providing cashless healthcare management to everyone."

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Abhishek Gupta Co Founder WeVOIS Labs, said, "As we approach the end of 2024, India's waste management journey is at a pivotal point. While the Swachh Bharat Mission and Plastic Waste Management Rules have made strides, the challenge of waste mismanagement remains daunting, with over 40% of urban waste still unprocessed. The problem is not just about aesthetics, it’s deeply tied to public health, with diseases like dengue and malaria thriving in unmanaged waste."

"Yet, this year, innovation and collaboration have emerged as powerful solutions. Cleantech startups are transforming waste management with smart technologies and community-driven initiatives. They’re not just filling gaps but reshaping a cultural shift towards responsibility, sustainability, and accountability," he said.

"Looking ahead to 2025, we need to harness the momentum and focus on scaling these solutions. The stakes are high: prioritizing policy reforms, enforcing stricter regulations, and continuing to empower our sanitation workers, who play a critical role in this transformation. India stands on the brink of becoming a global leader in sustainability, but it will take collective action from government, businesses, and every individual to turn this vision into reality. The time for change is now. Let’s all play our part in building a cleaner, healthier, and more prosperous future for India," he added.


Rakesh Kumar, Founder Square Insurance, said, "In 2024, the insurance industry we have seen some positive changes, especially with regulations like the IRDAI’s guidelines on health insurance portability, which make it easier for consumers to switch providers. However, there’s still a major gap. Around 20% of India’s rural population is covered by insurance, with health, medical, and life insurance being particularly low. The barriers to coverage in rural areas are clear . limited awareness, lack of digital infrastructure, and trust in the system."

"As founders, I know that offering an insurance product is only part of the challenge; the real task is ensuring people can easily access and benefit from it. In 2025, the focus needs to be on making insurance products, particularly health and life insurance, more accessible and straightforward. Simplifying claims processes, reducing paperwork, and ensuring smooth recovery procedures will help build trust," he added.

"Government policies should also play a crucial role in facilitating these changes, by creating frameworks that make insurance easier to adopt and claim, especially in rural settings. Awareness campaigns, leveraging mobile technology and community outreach, will be key in educating people on the importance of health and life insurance. By addressing these challenges, we can increase coverage, especially in underserved rural areas, and ensure that more people have access to the protection they need," Kumar said.

Rohit Bajaj, Co-Founder Balwaan Krishi, said, "2024 has been a pivotal year for MSMEs in India. The government’s focus on strengthening the agricultural sector through initiatives like the ‘Atmanirbhar Bharat’ and the rollout of the revised tax policies under the Union Budget has provided much-needed relief for startups like ours. These policies have made it easier for us to scale, especially with the introduction of reduced tax rates for small businesses and a more simplified tax regime, encouraging investment in technology and innovation."

"The government’s efforts to improve infrastructure, especially in rural areas, are also something we greatly appreciate. With better road connectivity and the development of rural markets, reaching farmers has become far more efficient, allowing us to extend our affordable, high-quality tools to regions where they were previously inaccessible," Bajaj said.

"However, 2025 presents a new set of opportunities and challenges. While we’ve seen progress, the need for more targeted policies that support the accessibility of easy loans and financing for MSME manufacturing startups is essential. In 2025, I believe we need further improvements in loan disbursement processes and reduced interest rates to enable more MSMEs to invest in scaling their businesses. The availability of low-cost financing, combined with a continued focus on strengthening digital infrastructure and connectivity, can create a much more enabling environment for growth," he added.

"In addition, there’s a need to build a robust insurance ecosystem for agricultural MSMEs to safeguard against unforeseen disruptions. A more inclusive insurance framework for manufacturers, especially in agriculture-related fields, would protect us from unexpected risks, allowing for smoother operations and long-term sustainability," he said.

"We are confident that the government will continue to push for reforms that not only empower small businesses but also foster a more resilient, future-ready agricultural sector. With 2025 on the horizon, it’s critical that MSMEs like ours have the tools, policies, and support needed to continue to scale, innovate, and impact the agricultural ecosystem positively," Bajaj concluded.

 

(Disclaimer: This story has been written with inputs from experts. The opinions shared by them belong to them only.)