The idea that China 'steals' technology is racist propaganda. While there were a number of greyzone stuff, most of Chinese-acquired technologies from foreign countries were purchased, licensed, or learned. The West, SK, Japan, India, and to a certain extent, Russia could not accept that China had acquired world-class technology. That is why this 'China steals technology' myth keeps perpetuating. It's racism, jealousy, or both.
I would argue that the key to acquiring new technology is the ability to learn. Japan bought automotive technology from Britain, and were able to learn how to make cars. South Korea bought HSR technology from France, and learned how to make their KTX HSR. Buying technology is meaningless if these technology cannot be learned, and put to good use.
India cannot hold a candle to China when it comes to learning technology from others. India bought all kinds of technology. But till this day, needs to pay for ToT to manufacture AK rifles, and 155mm SPH.
Let's look at the truck industry. Tata was established in 1945, and Ashok Leyland, in 1955. Both are India's automotive giants. And both purchased lots of Western automotive technologies long before Chinese companies started doing so. FAW Jiefang was established in 2003, and Sinotruck was established in 2007. Today, the Chinese trucks are very popular in the 3rd world. Even in some parts of Eastern Europe and Russia. Indian trucks? Barely noticeable. You could even count with your fingers, the amount of Indian trucks on the road.
This is the kind of truth that many Indians cannot handle. Hence they joined in on the 'China steals technology' bandwagon. I'm actually glad that they do that, it keeps them uncompetitive.
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