Context: As reported in The Hindu, Brain–Computer Interfaces (BCIs) are moving beyond experimental laboratories into real-world applications, accelerating the global neurotechnology revolution. Neurotechnology refers to mechanical or digital tools used to record, analyse, or influence the human nervous system, particularly the brain.
What is a Brain–Computer Interface?
A Brain–Computer Interface (BCI) is a system that enables direct communication between the brain’s electrical signals and an external device, bypassing the neuromuscular pathways.
Its primary objective is to restore, enhance, or substitute cognitive and sensory-motor functions, especially for individuals suffering from paralysis, stroke, or neurodegenerative diseases.
Key Components of a BCI System
- Signal Acquisition: Electrodes capture neural electrical activity from the brain.
- Signal Processing: Raw signals are filtered to remove noise and extract meaningful patterns.
- Translation: Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning algorithms convert neural patterns into digital commands.
- Device Output & Feedback: Commands control external devices (e.g., robotic limbs, cursors), while feedback helps users improve accuracy.
Types of BCIs
- Non-Invasive BCIs: Sensors placed on the scalp (EEG, fMRI); low risk but lower signal resolution.
- Partially Invasive BCIs: Electrodes placed beneath the skull but outside brain tissue (ECoG); better signal quality with moderate risk.
- Invasive BCIs: Electrodes implanted directly into brain tissue; high precision but higher infection risk (e.g., Neuralink, Blackrock Neurotech).
Key Applications
- Medical: Mobility assistance for paralysis, speech recovery in stroke patients, Parkinson’s and epilepsy treatment, and vision-restoration research.
- Cognitive Enhancement: Neurofeedback-based training for attention, memory, and performance improvement.
- Security & Defence: Secure authentication and hands-free control of advanced systems.
- Human–Machine Interaction: Thought-controlled gaming, VR/AR navigation, and smart-home systems.
Why India Needs BCI Adoption
India’s neurological disease burden doubled between 1990 and 2019, with stroke contributing 37.9% of DALYs (Lancet Global Health). An ageing population, coupled with rising dementia cases, makes assistive neurotechnology essential. With a projected USD 6 billion global BCI market by 2030, indigenous innovation can boost startups, patents, and India’s status as a neurotechnology hub.
India’s Current Standing
India holds about 2.5% of the global BCI market (2024). Notable developments include IIT Kanpur’s BCI-controlled robotic hand, C-DAC’s Vivan-BCI for children with special needs, and startups like BrainSight AI working on neurological mapping and screening tools. India’s BCI ecosystem is currently dominated by non-invasive EEG-based systems.
Global Landscape
The United States leads with companies like Neuralink and Synchron. Europe focuses on collaborative neurorehabilitation research.
China’s Brain Project (2016–2030) integrates cognition research and brain-inspired AI, while Japan and South Korea emphasise rehabilitation, robotics, and gaming-oriented BCIs.