An analysis of the contribution of the information technology industry in India showed that the country had found a profitable middle ground between science and economy, the share of the sector in the country's GDP structure is more than 10% in 2016/2017. On the other hand, the total contribution of information technologies, including the digital and mobile component of the Russian economy, amounted to 5.06% of GDP in 2017. Despite the economic stagnation, high-tech segments have continuing to develop and find new ways to increase profits and market share. Russian IT industry in the next 5 - 7 years has the potential for significant growth - 10 percent or more per year. The paper identifies sectors that can become a reference point for a technological breakthrough in Russia, defines strategic indicators necessary for the development of the innovative economy in the medium term.