On Thursday, the Union Cabinet sanctioned an ambitious initiative, the IndiaAI Mission, with a budget allocation of Rs. 10,371 crore.
This mission aims to bolster India’s innovation ecosystem under the vision of ‘Making AI in India’ and ‘Making AI Work for India’.
It seeks to demonstrate the positive societal impacts of AI technology on a global scale, thus enhancing India’s competitive edge. The approved budget, spread over the next five years, will fuel various components of the IndiaAI Mission.
Key Components of IndiaAI Mission
The IndiaAI Mission comprises several crucial initiatives aimed at fostering AI innovation:
IndiaAI Compute Capacity: This initiative intends to establish a robust AI computing infrastructure by deploying over 10,000 GPUs through strategic partnerships. It will democratize computing access and offer AI services to innovators.
IndiaAI Innovation Centre: The center will focus on developing indigenous AI models for critical sectors, enhancing technological self-reliance.
IndiaAI Datasets Platform: A unified platform will be developed to provide quality non-personal datasets, fostering AI innovation among startups and researchers.
IndiaAI Application Development Initiative: This initiative will promote AI applications in various sectors, sourced from governmental institutions, aiming at socio-economic transformation.
IndiaAI FutureSkills: Aimed at expanding AI education, this program will increase the accessibility of AI courses and establish Data and AI Labs across Indian cities, including Tier 2 and Tier 3 cities.
IndiaAI Startup Financing: Providing streamlined funding access to deep-tech AI startups, enabling futuristic AI projects.
Safe & Trusted AI: Implementing Responsible AI projects to ensure ethical and responsible AI deployment, including developing indigenous tools and governance frameworks.
Implementation and Impact
The IndiaAI Mission will be executed by the ‘IndiaAI’ Independent Business Division under the Digital India Corporation.
It aims to drive innovation, create highly skilled employment opportunities, and ensure India’s technological sovereignty. Additionally, by showcasing AI’s potential for societal good, it will elevate India’s global competitiveness, the press release added.
Rajeev Chandrasekhar, Minister of State for Skill Development and Entrepreneurship of India, commented on the announcement:
AI stands as the driving force behind India’s digital economy. Prime Minister Modi ji has emphasized India’s commitment to harnessing AI’s power for citizens’ welfare and economic growth. I express my gratitude to the Hon’ble PM for approving over 10,000 crores for the India AI program.
This investment will propel India’s AI ecosystem, shaping its future and benefiting states like Kerala, which have long awaited a robust tech environment. With immense potential among young Indians in Kerala, this financial support will help turn their aspirations into reality.