Answer

Introduction

Artificial Intelligence is emerging as a key driver of economic growth and strategic power. However, the concentration of advanced AI capabilities in a few countries and corporations risks widening technological inequalities, particularly for developing countries like India.

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Implications for Developing Countries like India

• Technological Dependence: Dependence on foreign AI models reduces strategic autonomy and exposes countries to unilateral restrictions.
  Eg: The U.S. withdrawing access to Anthropic’s Mythos and Fable models, disrupting firms relying on them.
• Innovation Gap: Limited access to computing power and skilled talent widens the innovation divide between developed and developing economies.
  Eg: The UN Preliminary Report of the Independent International Scientific Panel on AI identifies compute, electricity and capital as key barriers for the Global South.
• Regulatory Disadvantage: Developing countries struggle to regulate AI systems that are far more advanced than their domestic technological capabilities.
• Economic Exclusion: AI-driven productivity gains and value creation may remain concentrated in advanced economies, widening development gaps.
• Information Risks: Unregulated AI can fuel deepfakes and cyber threats, undermining public trust and democratic institutions.

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Way Forward

• Indigenous AI: Strengthen domestic AI capabilities through investment in compute infrastructure, research and innovation.
  Eg: The IndiaAI Mission (2024) provides funding for AI compute, datasets and startups.
• Global Governance: Advocate inclusive international AI governance that reflects Global South priorities.
  Eg: India has supported Global Partnership on Artificial Intelligence (GPAI) initiatives for responsible AI.
• Digital Infrastructure: Expand sovereign digital public infrastructure to support secure AI development.
  Eg: IndiaAI Compute under the IndiaAI Mission aims to provide access to high-end GPUs.
• Responsible Regulation: Establish risk-based AI governance balancing innovation with accountability and user protection.
  Eg: The IndiaAI Mission’s Safe and Trusted AI Pillar promotes ethical and responsible AI development.
• Talent Development: Build a strong AI workforce through education, skilling and research collaborations.
  Eg: The IndiaAI FutureSkills Pillar focuses on AI education, reskilling and capacity building.

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Conclusion

Bridging the emerging AI divide requires India to combine indigenous innovation, inclusive global cooperation and responsible regulation. Building sovereign AI capabilities while promoting equitable access will ensure that artificial intelligence becomes a tool for inclusive development rather than technological dependence.

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