AI to change the way we live and work so we have to become frontrunners in AI tech: Ashwini Vaishnaw

In a significant address in New Delhi on September 15, Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw emphasized that Artificial Intelligence (AI) is set to transform every facet of life, urging India to take the lead in AI technology development and adoption. During the unveiling of the 'AI for Viksit Bharat Roadmap' and the NITI Frontier Tech Repository, he remarked that AI represents one of the most profound technological shifts in recent history, comparable to the advent of the Internet. "Over the past few decades, AI has emerged as a pivotal force, influencing nearly every aspect of our activities. Much like the Internet revolutionized our lives, AI is poised to fundamentally alter how we work, live, and consume," Vaishnaw stated. He stressed the urgency for India to assume a leadership role in AI technologies to fully harness their potential. Vaishnaw also reflected on India's current position, envisioning a 'Viksit Bharat' or developed India, which starkly contrasts with the country's early post-independence era. "Today, growth is inclusive and robust, driven by advancements in technology," he noted. He highlighted that mastery of critical technologies such as telecom, semiconductors, electric vehicles, biotech, quantum computing, and rare earth materials is essential for any nation aspiring to be developed. "We must master and adopt these technologies while fostering a talent pipeline to stay at the forefront of innovation," he added. The minister outlined that India's path to becoming a leader in these sectors hinges on two foundational pillars: research and development alongside cultivating a skilled workforce. He shared insights about the semiconductor initiative launched in 2022, which aims to establish a strong ecosystem centered on talent development. Vaishnaw revealed that currently, 278 institutions are equipping students with the latest semiconductor design tools, leading to the production of chips at the Semi-Conductor Laboratory in Mohali. "Recently, 20 chips were manufactured, with another 15 currently in production," he informed. Concluding his remarks, the minister reiterated the importance of focusing on AI and other critical technologies as vital to securing India's status as a global technology leader in the years ahead.