The upcoming IndiaAI Datasets platform, a crucial component of the ₹10,372-crore IndiaAI Mission, is set to provide businesses with access to anonymous, non-personal data for AI model training. Government departments will also have the opportunity to monetize datasets through this platform.
Abhishek Singh, Additional Secretary at the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) and CEO of the IndiaAI Mission, shares insights on India’s AI potential, the impact of US AI chip restrictions, India’s role in the global AI ecosystem, and the importance of international AI governance.
India’s AI Potential in the Next Two Years
India has the capability to emerge as a leader in AI. According to Stanford’s AI Index, the country ranks first in AI skill penetration. While India has abundant talent, access to quality datasets is essential, and the IndiaAI Mission aims to bridge this gap. With strong research capabilities and the right infrastructure, India is well-positioned to advance in the AI domain.
Addressing AI Chip Restrictions and India’s Role in the US Growth Story
Discussions with the US regarding AI chip restrictions are ongoing, with the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) handling the matter. While these restrictions are primarily targeted at China, they are not expected to significantly hinder India’s AI ambitions. The US views India as a trusted partner, with its tech industry heavily reliant on Indian software developers. India’s contributions to the US growth story highlight its strategic importance in the global AI landscape.
IndiaAI Datasets Platform: Initial Features and Accessibility
The first version of the IndiaAI Datasets platform will include core functionalities and essential datasets, with more departments contributing data over time. It will serve as a minimal viable product (MVP) in its initial phase, gradually expanding its capabilities.
Each government department will determine its own pricing model for dataset access—some may offer free access, while others may charge a licensing fee. The India AI Kosh, the digital data portal under development, will eventually evolve into a National Data Management Office, with a dedicated team of technical and management professionals overseeing data operations.
Market Potential for India’s Foundational AI Models
India’s AI market holds immense potential, particularly for foundational models trained on local datasets and languages. With nearly 900 million internet users and an additional 500 million expected to come online, voice-enabled AI services are poised for significant growth. Large language models (LLMs) tailored for voice-based interactions will play a crucial role in expanding digital accessibility.
Exporting AI Models and Developing Indigenous GPUs
India aims to make its AI advancements globally accessible. Once state-of-the-art AI models are developed, they will be available for international use.
Additionally, under the India Semiconductor Mission, efforts are underway to establish chip fabrication units, promote design-linked incentives, and eventually develop GPU-like chips to support AI computing needs.
AI Compute Infrastructure for Startups
A new AI compute infrastructure, equipped with over 18,000 GPUs, is set to go live soon. Startups will be able to apply for access, with approvals processed in near real-time, subject to a basic eligibility check.
The Need for Global AI Governance
Given AI’s inherently global nature, establishing international governance standards is imperative. The UN’s high-level advisory body has provided initial guidance, and nations are working toward a consensus. While each country may have its own priorities, a universal benchmark will be essential for an effective global governance framework.
India’s proactive approach to AI development, governance, and infrastructure is positioning it as a key player in the evolving AI landscape. With strategic initiatives in place, the country is poised to drive AI innovation both domestically and on the global stage.
