- We are aware of how the rapidly changing dynamics of technological advancements define the modern-day world. Such is the dynamism of some cutting-edge technologies, such as artificial intelligence (AI), that many would miss the real value of the newest innovations that are continually being unearthed with great precision. Of course, the first-mover advantage often stays with the most advanced nations. But due credit should accrue to a few developing countries for making earnest efforts to stay afloat, as well as making sincere attempts at furthering the cause. This being the case, let’s dwelve deeper into the AI domain that is not only defining how the world would function in the changed scenario but also where India as a country stands on this front.
PC: Digit
- The Indian information technology revolution and the software expertise are widely acknowledged. However, where it stands vis-à-vis AI is what matters most now. For the uninitiated, India has built an LLM, has good startups, and upcoming data centres. Obviously, that’s not enough. Big things happen when people put their heads together. Let’s look at what happens when we gather thinking people together. In Feb 1974, a handful of Taiwanese engineers and officials met for a breakfast meeting. Taiwan’s economy depended on labour-intensive factories at the time, but the breakfast group saw competition from neighbouring countries ahead. They decided it was time to go high-tech. What ensued was epochal.
PC: ETV Bharat
- Four years later, Taiwan was not only making semiconductors but was also third in terms of digital watch exports. It’s Feb again, and the world’s AI captains, along with armies of delegates, are gathered in Delhi. At India AI Impact Summit 2026, there will be many opportunities to put heads together. But what does India want from these meetings? There’s the official manifesto that says AI should develop keeping people, planet, and progress first. A laudable aim, but far removed from reality at present. As for people, talk over the past few days has dwelt on the coming annihilation of entry and middle-rung white-collar jobs. Regarding the planet, AI’s water and energy demands are well-documented. Progress under these conditions is questionable.
PC: The Hawk
- Thus, India cannot realise its vision if all it brings to the table are high moral principles. What it needs is the underpinnings of AI: its own research, data centres, foundational models, and popular applications. True, the US seems to have an unassailable lead in AI today. But so was the case with semiconductors and rare earths, at various points in the last century. It gets off the blocks fast with a combination of wealth, cutting-edge research, and first-mover advantage. That doesn’t mean the race is over. And AI is still in its infancy. Hearteningly, India has quietly built BharatGen, our own LLM that supports 22 languages. States like Andhra have attracted multibillion-dollar data centre commitments. Is it enough? GOI and the private sector must invest more in R&D. Simple.
