India is poised for AI: set to invest $1 billion in computing infrastructure

The Indian government is planning to invest more than Rs 100 billion in artificial intelligence (AI) computing infrastructure over the next two to three months, according to Indian Railways Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw. This investment will involve procuring 10,000 or more graphics processing units (GPUs) through a public-private partnership to leverage industry efficiencies for a larger cause. The IndiaAI Global Summit held in New Delhi served as the platform for this announcement.

The recently approved AI Mission by the Indian Cabinet will focus on developing skills that enable startups to test and build generative AI models, accelerating their efforts in this field. Minister Vaishnaw highlighted global interventions aimed at addressing the challenges presented by AI systems, such as the European Union’s AI Law and the executive order in the United States. He emphasized that AI is a tool that can help solve certain socioeconomic problems.

Praising Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision to democratize technology and make it accessible to everyone, Minister Vaishnaw noted that technology, especially modern technology, is becoming increasingly expensive and accessible to only a few. He described AI’s journey in the past year as “transcendental,” with increased growth in consumption and enthusiasm for how it could transform businesses and society, while also acknowledging the risks associated.

In conclusion, the minister called for collaboration among institutions such as the OECD, UN, and EU to ensure that humanity harnesses the potential of AI while mitigating risks. The speech at the summit highlighted the government’s commitment to leveraging AI for the betterment of society and the economy, with a focus on inclusive and sustainable development in this rapidly advancing field.