India’s new Broadband Policy is finally out. NIXI (it says) will finally mandate proper intra-India routing. Outdoor Wifi is allowed ‘in principle’. A basic minimum defintion of broadband has been made — a 256kbps always-on connection. Access providers can partner to utilize and improve available copper for DSL-grade lines. Cable TV providers can provide broadband. DTH providers can provide ‘receive-only’ Internet service (whatever that means). Good progress. The only question in my mind is–

How the hell can Indian citizens demonstrate technological leadership when it needs to look at its government in askance to implement something as non-earth-shaking as broadband-based business plans? Why do we need a Soviet-era policy document that prescribes 256kbps when we have huge amounts of unlit fiber capacity in this country? Why does the government have to mandate basic technical measures like the NIXI?

In my mind, the answer is, we’re too used to following to see the opportunity to lead.