World acknowledges that India will have an upper hand in AI, says PM Modi
In a forward-looking address at the Startup Mahakumbh on Wednesday (March 20, 2024), Prime Minister Narendra Modi positioned India as a future leader in artificial intelligence (AI) capabilities on the global stage. During his speech, PM Modi championed the spirit of innovation among Indian entrepreneurs and startups, urging them to devise "Indian solutions for global applications."

A Pledge to Global Leadership in AI

"World acknowledges that India will have an upper hand in AI," Prime Minister Modi proclaimed, highlighting the global consensus on India's burgeoning role in the AI domain. This vision is supported by three pivotal missions launched by the government focusing on AI, semiconductors, and quantum computing. 

Prime Minister Modi's confidence in India's potential to dominate the AI sphere is backed by a comprehensive approach aimed at nurturing talent, elevating innovation, and attracting global investment.

Empowering Youth and Entrepreneurs

The Prime Minister stressed the limitless opportunities AI presents for young innovators and global investors. "The leadership of AI capabilities will and should remain in hands of India...I am confident that the spirit of 'Indian solutions for global applications' will be a force...solutions by Indian innovators will solve problems for many countries," Prime Minister Modi articulated. His belief in Indian ingenuity as a solution-provider on the world stage echoes his previous statements to the US Senate, reinforcing India's commitment to being a frontrunner in AI development.

Investment in Research and Innovation

Prime Minister Modi also announced significant financial commitments to nurture India's research infrastructure. The formation of the National Research Foundation, with an investment of thousands of crores, and a Rs 1 lakh crore fund announced in the interim budget for research and innovation, lay the groundwork for sustained growth in emerging sectors. This strategic investment aims to propel India to the forefront of global innovation, particularly in AI and related fields.

A Flourishing Startup Ecosystem

Reflecting on the growth of India's startup ecosystem, Prime Minister Modi noted the impressive leap from fewer than 100 startups in 2014 to approximately 1.25 lakh today. This vibrant community has not only created job opportunities for over 12 lakh youths but has also given rise to over 110 unicorns, showcasing India's entrepreneurial spirit and innovation prowess on the global stage. The Prime Minister's own election campaign leverages AI technology, demonstrating the practical application and widespread adoption of AI across sectors.

Bridging Digital Divides

PM Modi emphasized the role of startups in advancing financial inclusion through technology, particularly highlighting the success of the Unified Payments Interface (UPI). He also exemplified the importance of democratising technology to bridge the rural-urban divide, stating, "India has democratised technology. Therefore, have and have-nots cannot work here. We have everything for everyone."

Fostering a Culture of Innovation

The Prime Minister appealed to successful startups and unicorns to mentor new entrepreneurs and engage with educational institutions, fostering a culture of innovation across the country. Highlighting that over 45% of startups are led by women, Modi pointed to the significant role of technological empowerment in nation-building.

The Startup Mahakumbh, described as "India's largest startup event," saw unprecedented participation from startups, investors, unicorns, incubators, and accelerators, creating a dynamic platform for collaboration and networking. With 10 thematic pavilions showcasing innovations across diverse sectors, the event voiced India's ambition and capability to lead the world in AI and technological advancements.

In his address, Prime Minister Modi not only outlined India's path to becoming a global leader in AI but also reinforced the nation's commitment to innovation, research, and entrepreneurship. As India continues to ascend on the world stage, its strategic investments in AI and technology are designed to shape a future where Indian solutions address global challenges, marking a new era of prosperity and technological prowess.