India is taking a major step toward AI self-reliance with the announcement of its own generative AI model, joining the global race alongside platforms like ChatGPT and DeepSeek. Union IT Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw revealed this ambitious initiative at the Utkarsh Odisha Conclave, stating that the project will be powered by the India AI Compute Facility, which has secured 18,000 GPUs to support the development of a Large Language Model (LLM) tailored specifically to India’s needs.
As part of this strategic move, India will also establish AI data centers in Odisha, reinforcing the country’s commitment to strengthening its AI ecosystem and expanding its digital infrastructure. By decentralizing AI development beyond metropolitan hubs, the initiative aims to democratize access to cutting-edge technology and accelerate innovation across the country.
The Indian government has been actively investing in AI research, computing infrastructure, and digital transformation. The India AI Compute Facility plays a central role in this effort, providing the high-performance computing power needed to build indigenous AI solutions. With 18,000 GPUs at its disposal, the initiative is poised to create an AI model that caters to India’s diverse linguistic, economic, and societal landscape. This move is expected to enhance data security, improve support for regional languages, and offer greater regulatory oversight compared to foreign AI models.
The government’s push for AI adoption spans multiple sectors, including healthcare, governance, education, and financial services. By developing a homegrown AI model, India aims to reduce its reliance on international platforms while fostering innovation and ensuring AI solutions are aligned with national priorities.
Odisha’s emerging role as a technology hub further underscores the shift in India’s digital strategy, with planned data centers set to play a critical role in AI advancements. This aligns with the broader national vision of leveraging AI to drive economic growth, digital inclusion, and technological leadership on the global stage.
As AI becomes a key driver of digital transformation worldwide, India’s foray into developing its own generative AI model signals a strong commitment to shaping its technological future. With ChatGPT leading in the West and DeepSeek gaining traction in China, India’s initiative aims to establish a competitive AI ecosystem focused on localized applications and enhanced digital accessibility. The race for AI leadership is intensifying, and India is positioning itself as a formidable player in this evolving landscape.