India is making bold moves in artificial intelligence (AI) and has a clear plan to become a world leader in this technology. The government has launched several initiatives to develop AI-related infrastructure, build a pool of skilled human resources, and encourage research and development.
The National AI Mission (NAIM)
A key element in this initiative is the National AI Mission (NAIM), which was mooted in 2024 with a budget of $1.3 billion over five years. It aims to enrich the computing infrastructure, gain access to quality data, promote AI research, and attract investments in startups. It will also work towards the advancement of AI algorithms and the application of AI in various sectors.
India is getting ready for stronger data access and infrastructure to grow AI. The IndiaAI Datasets Platform, which should go live in early 2025, would give easy access to datasets that developers need to train AI models. Another major initiative is to develop within the next few years India’s own Graphics Processing Units (GPUs) to reduce reliance on imported technologies. Also, a Foundational AI Platform should be ready in about ten months to support building and deploying AI applications.
Education and skill development remain critical elements of India’s AI strategy. The government plans to set up AI Centres of Excellence, one of which is on AI in Education, and five geared to skilling initiatives. The training programs are going to prepare workers for jobs that AI will create and those that are likely to be lost.
India’s Plan for the Future
India is also steadily developing AI research and indigenous solutions that respond to the nation’s needs. India would indeed be at the fore by transforming itself into the world’s biggest investment hub for cutting-edge AI infotech projects that promise technologies to face local challenges and opportunities. At the same time, revised international ties have been established, for example, AI collaboration with France advances research exchanges and innovation with the entrepreneurial ecosystem in AI.
The expected effect of AI on the economy will be colossal, as it would grow India’s economy by $500 billion in 2025. With programs like “AI for India 2030,” such aims are now being directed toward the global economy with the promise to use AI for development.
As much as ambitious goals have been laid out in AI development, India still needs to address several issues. The shortage of competent professionals and the existence of a very homogeneous datasets is a major limiting factor. Clear regulations need to be established to balance innovation and ethics. Stronger public-private partnerships would be needed to speed up AI adoption and encourage innovation.
Conclution
India’s strategy for AI signals a firm commitment to leadership in this important changing field. Rapid major movements in ways of investing in technology, education, and innovation are prompting the country to re-position itself to avail economic and social returns from AI. While India continues to move forward, the world keeps a watchful eye on its journey.