India is on the cusp of a transformative digital era, and Artificial Intelligence (AI) is undeniably a key driver. However, ensuring that the immense power of AI is harnessed for the benefit of its vast population, and built on sustainable foundations, is a critical challenge.
According to Amitabh Kant, the former CEO of NITI Aayog and a prominent voice in India’s policy-making, the nation’s ambitious growth goals are intrinsically linked to democratizing AI access. He emphasizes that for AI to truly serve India, its infrastructure must be green and its benefits widespread.
Sustainable Foundations for AI
Kant highlighted a crucial point regarding AI infrastructure: the necessity for facilities like data centres, which are major energy consumers, to be powered by renewable energy. This isn’t merely an environmental consideration; it’s about building a resilient and future-proof digital economy. He stressed the importance of these energy sources being supported by robust, modern grid systems capable of handling the substantial and growing demands of advanced AI operations.
This vision aligns perfectly with India’s broader climate commitments and positions the country to be a leader in sustainable technology development.
Leveraging Digital Public Infrastructure for AI Accessibility
Perhaps one of the most innovative aspects of Kant’s perspective is the proposal to leverage India’s successful Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI) model. India has pioneered world-renowned DPIs like Aadhaar for identity, UPI for payments, and ONDC for commerce, effectively bringing digital services to millions across diverse socio-economic strata.
Kant suggests that this proven framework can be extended to ensure that the advantages of AI – be it in healthcare diagnostics, precision agriculture, or personalized education – are accessible to every citizen. By creating open, interoperable, and inclusive AI platforms, India can prevent AI from becoming an exclusive tool for the privileged, thereby fostering widespread innovation, economic growth, and social empowerment.
Charting India’s AI Future
Amitabh Kant’s insights underscore a clear pathway for India’s AI journey: it must be strategic, sustainable, and deeply inclusive. By prioritizing green AI infrastructure and skillfully utilizing its expertise in DPI to ensure broad-based access, India can not only achieve its ambitious growth targets but also establish a global benchmark for responsible and equitable AI development.
The road ahead is filled with promise, and with visionary leadership like Kant’s, India’s AI-driven future looks bright, green, and truly accessible to all.
Source: Original Article









Comments