Dr Pramod Varma is currently the CTO for EkStep, a not-for-profit creating learner-centric, technology-enabled platform to improve applied literacy and numeracy. He is known to have been the Chief Architect and Technology Advisor for the Aadhaar (UID) project. He was responsible for Aadhaar’s system architecture and strategic tech decisions.
View on technology
“It means the choice and opportunity to help humanity at scale.”
Key tech focus
Role of AI and ML
Looking at a step function upgrade in computing paradigm
Focus on larger questions of AI and quantum computing’s use, impact, monopolisation, etc.
Top challenges
Ease of doing business and access to capital
Generating differentiated IP
Building with a long-term view (10+ years)
Fighting technology monopolies to create level playing field