Budget 2025-26 to Unveil Policies Boosting India's AI Ecosystem

CIOTechOutlook Team | Friday, 10 January 2025, 02:35 IST

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Budget 2025-26 is expected to unveil a series of initiatives aimed at bolstering the AI ecosystem in the nation, while also outlining a strategy to transform the country into an AI center. The measures proposed, as per sources, could involve the establishment of AI centres and specific initiatives for training, aimed at optimizing the use of technology that is reshaping not only business operations but also production, supply chains, and market dynamics.

The policy package would, however, give priority to “human-centric technology development”, and guard against the potential of AI to hurt employment, the sources added.

Ahead of the Budget, Prime Minister Narendra Modi has engaged with prominent figures in the tech industry, such as Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella, Vianai Systems founder Vishal Sikka, and Perplexity AI CEO Aravind Srinivas to explore opportunities and a human-centered approach to AI.

“The Budget may feature some announcement about AI centres and AI skilling based on India’s requirement and how AI can be deployed without affecting employment,” an official said.

Similar to other regions globally, there are worries that AI technology could transform the Indian job market by generating new opportunities while also presenting challenges like job loss from automation. The Budget's road map is expected to emphasize the necessity of tackling significant reskilling needs, developing new skills, shifting industry dynamics, and fostering AI-driven entrepreneurship.