India leads AI adoption, pioneers global governance: FM Sitharaman

Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman said India is not just leading in AI adoption but also shaping its governance. Speaking at IIIT Kottayam’s 6th convocation, she highlighted India’s readiness for AI and its growing demand.

India recorded 3 billion AI-related app downloads in 2024, far ahead of the US (1.5 billion) and China (1.3 billion). This surge reflects the country’s rapid AI integration. Sitharaman also noted India’s recognition on the global stage. The AI Action Summit in Paris named India as co-chair, reinforcing its leadership in the sector.

At the summit, Prime Minister Narendra Modi stressed responsible AI use. He urged global leaders to prevent unethical practices. Sitharaman echoed this, emphasizing the need for AI that is ethical, inclusive, and trustworthy.

The government has taken major steps to boost AI. The India AI mission, with a ₹10,300 crore budget, focuses on building computing infrastructure, developing local AI capabilities, attracting global AI talent, and funding startups. Sitharaman stressed that India is not just researching AI but implementing it at scale. She also cited Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella’s acknowledgment of India’s AI progress.

India has also advanced in innovation and patenting. Sitharaman pointed out that India’s ranking in the Global Innovation Index jumped from 81 in 2015 to 39 in 2024. The patents-to-GDP ratio rose from 144 in 2013 to 381 in 2023, showing significant growth in innovation.

She also highlighted India’s 7th position in intangible asset intensity. The country now matches Germany and Japan in intangible investment intensity, surpassing many high-income economies. These achievements, she said, confirm India’s progress but also highlight areas for improvement.

“We are moving towards greater innovation and self-reliance,” she said.

Sitharaman congratulated the IIIT Kottayam graduates and urged them to uphold ethical values. She condemned ragging incidents, referencing a recent case at a nursing college in Kerala. She encouraged students to support one another, become responsible citizens, and help build a brighter future.

With India’s rapid strides in AI and innovation, Sitharaman reaffirmed the nation’s commitment to ethical progress and global leadership.