Democratising AI at the Core of India’s Growth Strategy
India is strategically positioning artificial intelligence (AI) as a cornerstone of its development agenda, paralleling transformative technologies such as electricity, the internet, and mobile technology. This emphasis on AI is not merely about innovation; it is centered on ensuring that AI delivers measurable benefits across various sectors including governance, agriculture, healthcare, education, manufacturing, and climate action.
The Vision for Viksit Bharat 2047
At the heart of India’s AI strategy lies the concept of “democratising AI”, aimed at making essential resources such as computing infrastructure, datasets, and foundational models widely accessible. This approach is designed to empower startups, researchers, public institutions, and innovators across diverse regions, aligning technological advancement with the long-term vision of Viksit Bharat by 2047.
Upcoming India–AI Impact Summit 2026
The India–AI Impact Summit 2026, scheduled for February 16 to 20 at Bharat Mandapam in New Delhi, aims to highlight this inclusive AI model. Being the first major global AI summit hosted in the Global South, it will gather policymakers, technology leaders, and experts to discuss AI governance and equitable growth.
Applications in Various Sectors
India’s AI initiatives are transitioning from pilot projects to large-scale public deployment:
- Agriculture: AI-driven platforms are assisting farmers in anticipating weather changes, detecting pests, and optimizing crop cycles.
- Healthcare: Machine learning tools are enhancing diagnostics and telemedicine, especially in underserved regions.
- Language Accessibility: The Bhashini platform is expanding multilingual access to digital services.
- Weather Forecasting: The India Meteorological Department is integrating AI into weather forecasting and disaster preparedness.
Infrastructure Development
On the infrastructure front, the ₹10,371.92 crore IndiaAI Mission, approved in 2024, is expanding access to high-end computing and promoting responsible AI development. Initiatives like AIKosh, a national repository, are making thousands of datasets and AI models available for research and innovation. Additionally, India has onboarded tens of thousands of GPUs at subsidized rates to reduce entry barriers for developers.
Parallel investments in semiconductor manufacturing, data centers, and nationwide 5G connectivity are reinforcing this ecosystem. Education and skilling initiatives, from school-level programs to advanced research fellowships, aim to cultivate a future-ready workforce.
A Focus on Global Cooperation
With global cooperation at the forefront, India’s AI model emphasizes affordability, openness, and scale as key pillars. This approach aims to ensure that AI serves as a tool for inclusive and sustainable development, contributing to the broader goal of a developed India by 2047.
