India has been ranked as the world’s third most competitive country in artificial intelligence, trailing only the United States and China. The ranking reflects India’s growing strength across key AI indicators, including talent availability, research output, startup activity, and adoption of AI across industries. It highlights the country’s rapid progress in positioning itself as a global AI powerhouse.
A major driver of India’s rise is its vast pool of skilled professionals, particularly in engineering, data science, and software development. Indian institutions and companies are increasingly contributing to AI research, patents, and open-source innovation, while startups are leveraging AI to solve problems in sectors such as healthcare, fintech, agriculture, and governance.
Government initiatives have also played a crucial role in strengthening the AI ecosystem. Policies focused on digital infrastructure, public data platforms, and national AI missions have encouraged innovation while promoting responsible and inclusive use of AI technologies. These efforts aim to ensure that AI development supports economic growth, public services, and social impact.
India’s ranking underscores its growing influence in the global AI landscape, but it also points to future challenges. Sustaining momentum will require continued investment in advanced research, compute infrastructure, and ethical frameworks. As competition intensifies worldwide, India’s ability to balance innovation, regulation, and large-scale adoption will determine its long-term leadership in artificial intelligence.
