Davos 2026: India has a unique advantage in applying AI, explains Google’s James Manyika

During the World Economic Forum (WEF) 2026 in Davos, James Manyika, Senior Vice President at Google, emphasized India's growing role as a leader in impactful AI research. He pointed out that the country's initiatives are not only transforming healthcare but also improving agricultural practices and addressing significant societal challenges. Highlighting the advancements in healthcare, Manyika noted that India has successfully conducted retinal scans for diabetic retinopathy on over 600,000 patients. He stated, "We are collaborating with partners in India to expand our reach and potentially diagnose millions using this technology." This underscores the potential of AI to significantly reduce healthcare disparities, particularly in developing regions. In terms of agriculture, Manyika discussed the development of AI-driven monsoon prediction models aimed at assisting over 38 million farmers in India. He explained, "Last year, we collaborated with the Indian Ministry of Agriculture to create advanced models for predicting monsoons, and we were able to deliver accurate monsoon warnings to millions of farmers. This initial trial indicates the potential for substantial real-world impact, especially as climate change alters traditional weather patterns." The conversation also touched on Google's substantial $15 billion investment in India, which encompasses various sectors such as infrastructure and innovation. Manyika expressed optimism about this investment, stating, "The capacity to invest, innovate, and conduct research in India brings exciting possibilities. This research can benefit not only India but also have a global impact." For a deeper insight, you can watch the full interview.