In the rapidly evolving landscape of artificial intelligence (AI), India has emerged as an unlikely leader, surpassing the likes of the United States and China in AI adoption. With 3 billion AI-related app downloads in 2024, India has quietly become the epicenter of AI implementation, leaving the world to marvel at its achievement.
This milestone, celebrated by Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman at the convocation ceremony of the Indian Institute of Information Technology (IIIT) Kottayam, is a testament to India’s commitment to not just theoretical research, but practical application of AI across various sectors. It is a journey that has been marked by a focus on innovation, self-reliance, and responsible AI practices.
A Balanced Approach to AI Governance
India’s rise to AI leadership is not just about the numbers; it is also about the nation’s approach to AI governance and ethics. At the AI Action Summit in Paris, co-chaired by India and France, Prime Minister Narendra Modi emphasized the importance of developing AI that is ethical, inclusive, and trustworthy.
This stance was reiterated by Minister Sitharaman, who highlighted the government’s dedication to responsible AI practices to mitigate potential unethical applications. It is a balanced approach that seeks to harness the power of AI while addressing societal concerns and ensuring responsible implementation.
The Fruits of Innovation and Self-Reliance
India’s AI success story is rooted in its focus on innovation and self-reliance. The nation’s ascent in the Global Innovation Index, from 81st position in 2015 to 39th in 2024 among 133 economies, is a reflection of its commitment to fostering an ecosystem that encourages technological advancement and intellectual property creation.
Moreover, India’s patent-to-GDP ratio has witnessed a substantial increase, rising from 144 in 2013 to 381 in 2023, positioning the country seventh globally in intangible asset intensity. These achievements are the fruits of a concerted effort to prioritize innovation and build a self-reliant technological ecosystem.
Proactive Policy Development and Stakeholder Engagement
The Indian government’s approach to AI growth and integration is characterized by proactive policy development and stakeholder engagement. Minister Sitharaman emphasized the importance of continuous policy development, informed by input from industry experts, academics, and civil society.
This collaborative approach seeks to create an enabling environment for AI to flourish while addressing societal concerns. It is a recognition that the rapidly evolving AI landscape requires ongoing dialogue and collaboration with all stakeholders to ensure that policies keep pace with technological advancements.
A Quiet Leader, A Global Example
As India continues to lead in AI adoption and governance, it sets a powerful example for the rest of the world. The nation’s commitment to ethical and large-scale implementation of artificial intelligence demonstrates that rapid technological advancement can go hand-in-hand with responsible practices.
India’s success story serves as an inspiration for other nations to embrace AI while prioritizing trust, inclusivity, and societal well-being. It is a quiet leadership, one that is marked by a balanced approach to AI implementation and governance.
As the global AI landscape continues to evolve, India’s leadership in this domain is poised to shape the future of artificial intelligence and its impact on our world. It is a journey that began with innovation and self-reliance, and one that continues with a commitment to responsible AI practices and stakeholder engagement.
