Global AI Debate and India

Context

At a time when artificial intelligence (AI) is rapidly progressing, India will host the AI Impact Summit in February 2026. India has an opportunity to shape a more inclusive, ethical and context-sensitive global discourse on artificial intelligence.

Key Issues Related to Global AI

• Dominance of Tech Giants: The AI ecosystem is heavily controlled by a few global stakeholders (particularly the US and China) which limits diversity in thought and application.
• Ethical Concerns:
  • Bias in AI algorithms
  • Discriminatory outcomes
  • Lack of transparency and accountability
  • Threat to privacy and democratic rights
• Lack of Representation: Most developing countries, including India, are underrepresented in global AI governance and standard-setting forums.

India’s Unique Position

• Democratic and ethical foundation: India can support an AI model that respects human rights, democratic values and individual liberty.
• Diverse data ecosystem: India’s linguistic, cultural and socio-economic diversity can help train AI models that are more inclusive and representative.
• Digital public infrastructure (DPI): Initiatives such as Aadhaar, Unified Payment System (UPI) and Open Network for Digital Commerce (ONDC) demonstrate India’s ability to build scalable, open access digital systems for public good.

Opportunities for India

• Leading role in standard setting: Promote AI principles focused on inclusivity, fairness and sustainability at international forums such as G-20, BRICS and UN
• Strengthening domestic frameworks: Strong data security, algorithm transparency and AI-based governance Enact accountability laws
• Encourage ethical innovation: Support startups and research institutions building context-specific, low-resource AI tools (e.g., agriculture, healthcare, education)
• Bridging the digital divide: Ensure equitable access to AI technologies for rural and marginalized communities
• Bring the Global South to the forefront: The Global South was underrepresented at the first summit. As a leader of the Global South, India should strive to ensure as broad participation as possible.

Conclusion

India has the demographic advantage, digital experience, and ethical leadership to turn the AI discussion towards ‘AI for public good’. India must act decisively to build and regulate ethical, inclusive, and human-centered AI systems.