India is at a pivotal moment in its artificial intelligence journey, facing a choice between emerging as a global AI leader or remaining primarily a testing ground for technologies developed elsewhere. While the country benefits from a massive user base, expanding digital infrastructure, and supportive government initiatives, experts argue that these strengths alone are not enough to secure leadership in core AI innovation.
The article highlights that true AI leadership requires deep investment in research and development, advanced computing infrastructure, and the ability to build foundational AI models. Although India has made progress in areas such as local-language AI tools and public data platforms, it still trails major AI powers in producing cutting-edge, homegrown technologies that can compete globally.
India’s widespread adoption of AI tools has made it an attractive market for global technology companies, but this also risks positioning the country as a consumer rather than a creator of AI innovation. Without stronger domestic ecosystems, high-value intellectual property and economic gains may continue to flow abroad despite large-scale local usage and experimentation.
The article concludes that India must clearly define its AI strategy and prioritise long-term capability building. Strengthening talent pipelines, supporting deep-tech startups, and investing in foundational research are seen as essential steps if India wants to move beyond being an AI testbed and establish itself as a true global leader in artificial intelligence.
