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Lightning Talk Intermediate First Talk

Why Developers Should Care About Tech Policy

Approved
Session Description

Tech policy isn’t just for policymakers—it directly affects how developers build, ship, and scale their work. From data protection laws and cybersecurity rules to AI regulations and open-source policies, the legal landscape is shaping the future of software development. Government decisions on digital sovereignty, trade restrictions, and innovation policies impact access to global markets and tools. This talk will break down why developers should stay informed, how policies influence their work, and how they can play a role in shaping a tech ecosystem that works for everyone.

Key Takeaways
  1. Laws affect coding – Regulations shape how software is built and used.
  2. Rules impact opportunities – Policies decide funding, tools, and market access.
  3. Geopolitics matters – Global tech policies can limit or enable innovation.
  4. Developers have a voice – Engaging in policy helps shape the future of tech

References

https://pretalx.devconf.info/media/devconf-in-2025/submissions/9UZYTH/resources/FOSS__Tech_policies_in_India_H0wRDNi.pdf

Session Categories

FOSS

Speakers

Kaustubh Misra
Programs Lead Samagata Foundation
https://www.linkedin.com/in/kaustubh-misra/
Kaustubh Misra

I work in tech policy - bridging government, industry & academia for better impact. From shaping the National Policy on Electronics 2024 to funding EV batteries and solar cells research with DST, I've tried my hand at shaping high-level policy in my past life. In my current life, I lead programs at Samagata Foundation, exploring how to use tech for social good.

Reviews

Important talk. Please try cover FOSS specific policies as well - eg. the framework for OSS adoption in govt. (2014)
Reviewer #1 Approved
This is a must-have at LucknowFOSS. All devs need to be made aware of how they can influence policy and how policy influences them.
Reviewer #2 Approved
Reviewer #3 Approved
Reviewer #4 Approved