The development of artificial intelligence (AI) in India is a significant step towards achieving Atmanirbhar Bharat, or self-reliant India. Foundational AI models, like Sarvam-M, and large language models (LLMs) by startups such as Krutrim and Sarvam AI, showcase India's progress in AI research and development. These models are trained on vast datasets of Indian languages and contextual data, enabling accurate text generation and conversational AI in various Indian languages.
The IndiaAI Mission, with a budgeted outlay of ₹10,000 crore, aims to develop a national AI compute grid built on 18,000 high-end GPUs spread across India. This infrastructure will be offered at subsidized rates to ensure startups, academia, and small businesses can afford the compute they need. Krutrim's LLM and Sarvam AI's efforts are notable examples of India's growing presence in the AI landscape.
AI has the potential to transform various sectors in India, including agriculture, financial services, healthcare, and education. For instance, AI can boost intelligent agriculture, enabling hyper-personalized, conversational access to critical farming knowledge. In financial services, AI is expected to play a bigger role, speeding up financial transactions, lowering prices, preventing fraud, and surfacing personalized offers.
However, building India's own AI infrastructure is crucial for data sovereignty and innovation. The cost of acquiring and maintaining large-scale GPU infrastructure remains a significant financial hurdle. Nevertheless, India has a vast pool of AI talent, with roughly 16% of the world's AI professionals. Nurturing this talent and promoting innovation can help India become a global AI powerhouse.
By developing and leveraging AI technology, India can drive economic growth, improve living standards, and emerge as a leader in the global AI landscape. The future of AI in India looks promising, with potential applications in various industries and sectors. As India continues to invest in AI research and development, it is likely to reap significant benefits and become a major player in the global AI ecosystem.
