India’s Strategic Role in the Evolving Global AI Landscape:

The global discourse surrounding artificial intelligence (AI) has evolved significantly, with the AI Summit 2025 standing as a testament to the progress and growing interest in the field. What began as a technology confined to academic research has now embedded itself in every aspect of modern life, transforming industries, business operations, and social dynamics. With nations vying for leadership in AI innovation, the divergence in their strategies raises important concerns, especially as countries like the UK and the US have refrained from endorsing the Inclusive and Sustainable Artificial Intelligence (AI) for People and the Planet statement, signed by countries such as India, China, and the EU.

Diverging Approaches to AI: The US and UK’s Strategic Challenge

The US and the UK, both keen on maintaining their leadership in AI, have refrained from signing agreements emphasizing inclusivity and sustainability in AI development. This is reflective of broader strategic and ideological differences, as both nations have historically led the way in AI research and development. However, India’s unique position, bolstered by its rapidly expanding startup ecosystem and vast talent pool, presents an opportunity for the nation to not only adopt AI technology but to lead with a vision that emphasizes AI for the greater good.

India’s AI journey has gained significant momentum, as the country seeks to position itself as a leader in AI development. The emergence of companies like DeepSeek, which challenge the traditional American-led AI model, signals a shift in the global AI ecosystem. Founded in 2023, DeepSeek’s disruptive approach has led to the development of AI models that are not only cost-effective but energy-efficient as well, positioning India to capitalize on this wave of innovation.

Prime Minister Modi’s Vision for AI: A Socially-Responsible Approach

At the Paris Summit 2025, Prime Minister Modi championed the idea that AI should not be constrained by borders and should serve social good. He emphasized the need for robust governance frameworks to guide the development and deployment of AI technologies globally. India, with its success in implementing Digital Public Infrastructure, is in a strong position to lead by example, leveraging large-scale data to train indigenous AI models focused on solving country-specific challenges.

India’s commitment to AI’s role in societal progress is evident in its policies. The IndiaAI Mission, with a budget allocation of INR 10,300 crore, aims to create homegrown AI models for sectors such as agriculture, language, education, and climate change. This funding is directed toward the development of 18 AI-based applications designed to tackle critical issues facing the country.

AI Collaborations: Strengthening Global Ties for Sustainable Innovation

India’s growing influence in AI is further solidified through its partnerships with global entities, such as the European AI Office. These collaborations focus on fostering innovation, sharing research, and establishing ethical AI frameworks. Additionally, India has deepened its cooperation with the National Science Foundation to advance research in AI, Quantum, and Semiconductors, ensuring the nation remains at the forefront of technological advancements.

Challenges in Building a Robust AI Ecosystem

While India’s progress in AI is promising, significant challenges remain. To develop sustainable, country-specific AI solutions, India must curate high-quality datasets derived from its massive data reserves. The formulation of a National Data Governance Framework will be essential to ensure robust data management and a comprehensive AI research platform.

Furthermore, India’s youth must be equipped with the skills necessary to thrive in the AI age. This requires fostering talent through India’s premier institutions like IITs and NITs, as well as enhancing GPU compute capabilities to support the development of advanced large language models (LLMs) and AI applications.

India’s Path Forward in the AI Landscape

India stands at a crossroads in the global AI race. The choices made today will define the trajectory of AI for generations to come. To harness its full potential, India must continue to lead through innovation, collaboration, and the creation of a globally competitive AI ecosystem. By focusing on responsible, inclusive, and sustainable AI, India can shape a future where AI serves as a force for progress, equity, and societal well-being.

As nations around the world wrestle with the complexities of AI, India has the opportunity to not only strengthen its technological capabilities but to play a pivotal role in shaping a future where AI serves humanity’s greater good.