XR Open Source (XROS) Fellowship, a crucial component of Meta’s global XR Programs and Research Fund, has celebrated the diverse pool of Indian talent in burgeoning technologies.
XROS aimed to bolster Indian developers venturing into XR technologies. Extended reality or XR is an umbrella term encompassing Augmented Reality (AR), Virtual Reality (VR), and Mixed Reality (MR). These technologies enhance the perception of the real world by adding or merging digital elements, creating interactive and immersive experiences.
Driven by the Federation of Indian Chamber of Commerce & Industry (FICCI) and bolstered by support from Meta and government partners, the XROS Fellowship attracted an overwhelming 10,000 applications. Through a stringent selection process, 100 developers were chosen, showcasing not just talent from major cities but also the vibrant creativity stemming from smaller towns and cities across India.
Shivnath Thukral, Director and Head of Public Policy – Meta India, said: “We have 65% of developers from smaller cities in India. So it is a myth to believe that Extended reality or XR initiatives are all happening in Delhi, Mumbai, Bengaluru and Chennai. In 65% coming from small cities and towns across India, 20% of the selected fellows are women developers.”
These developers collaborated on 38 open-source XR projects facilitated by 24 partner organizations. Their contributions spanned diverse domains, from spatially powered smart wearable devices to a 3D atlas of human anatomy, aimed at revolutionizing healthcare’s understanding in a 3D space.
Ajay Sood, Principal Scientific Adviser to the Government of India, lauded the programme for nurturing Indian developers’ excellence in XR technologies, envisioning its pivotal role in positioning India as a global tech leader. Abhishek Singh, President and CEO of Digital India and NeGD, commended the initiative for equipping tech-savvy Indians with essential skills and industry exposure, propelling their growth in the technological landscape. Meanwhile, Ashish Kulkarni, Chair of FICCI AVGC-XR Forum, reiterated the program’s transformative impact, empowering Indian developers to spearhead XR innovation.
All speakers from the government and industry have acknowledged the fact that the XROS Fellowship stands as a testament to India’s diverse tech talent, transcending geographical boundaries and fostering inclusive growth in the technological landscape.
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