India’s ambitions to lead in global AI governance face challenges due to the absence of a clear and democratic national AI strategy. The Future of India Foundation stresses the need for a structured plan before launching major AI missions.
Current AI Scenario in India:
- The IndiaAI Mission is led by a bureaucratic unit but lacks wider policy direction.
- Missions are meant to execute goals — but India has not yet clearly defined its national AI goals.
- No clear framework exists on values, institutional structures, or priority sectors.
Risks of a Strategy Deficit:
- Security Risks: AI is now part of defence and key infrastructure; relying on foreign tech can compromise national security.
- Data Governance: India is building public data platforms, but without rules, this could strengthen corporate control.
- Job Losses: 65,000 jobs were lost in major IT firms in 2024 alone due to automation. AI’s job impact is not being studied enough.
- Environmental Impact: Data centres use a lot of power and water — stressing cities like Bengaluru and Hyderabad, which already face water shortages.
Social and Ethical Concerns:
- AI affects jobs, education, and access to welfare services.
- It can cause bias and lack of accountability, especially in healthcare, policing, and social schemes.
- Ignoring public opinion risks weakening trust in AI systems.
Need for Democratic and Inclusive Governance:
- Decisions about AI must involve lawmakers, civil society, labour experts, educators, and industries.
- Only technical experts or market forces should not define how AI shapes society.
- India must align domestic policies with its global image as a leader in ethical AI.
Way Forward – Three Key Steps:
- Launch a Cabinet-approved National AI Strategy and present it in Parliament for public accountability.
- Create a Parliamentary Standing Committee on AI to monitor ethical use, policy, and public opinion.
- Conduct a national-level employment impact study to assess how AI is affecting jobs by sector and region.
Conclusion:
To lead in AI responsibly, India must build democratic consensus, set clear priorities, and form accountable institutions. A national AI strategy is essential before executing missions, ensuring AI serves the public good.
