China's $61.7B Tech Surge: State-Led Innovation Challenges Western Dominance

• China boosts science and technology budget by 10% to $61.7 billion for 2026, signaling ambition for tech dominance.
• Key sectors like satellite internet, EVs, AI, and brain-computer interfaces mirror Elon Musk's ventures (SpaceX, Tesla, Neuralink).
• Beijing's strategy is state-led, aiming for self-reliance and reducing dependence on foreign technology amid US rivalry.
• China's "techno-state capitalism" contrasts with Silicon Valley's entrepreneurial model, driving massive long-term projects.
• The R&D spending gap (China 2.5% GDP vs. India 0.7% GDP) poses a challenge for India's technological competitiveness.