India ranks 15th in global AI landscape with untapped potential: Study finds

Tufts University’s Business School, the Fletcher School, has conducted research positioning India as the 15th nation among the top 25 Artificial Intelligence (AI) nations. The study identifies the US as the leader, closely followed by China, with India standing out for its significant upward potential. The rankings also include the UK, Japan, and Germany in the top tier.

The assessment is based on four key drivers: The growth of data through broadband consumption, data accessibility and governance policies, capital including talent and investments, and innovation measured by patent applications and publications. Bhaskar Chakrovorti, Dean of Global Business at the Fletcher School, underscores India’s massive data pool, ranking second globally in data growth after Indonesia and possessing the world’s largest mobile data pool.

While acknowledging India’s AI and Machine Learning talent pool as the third-largest globally, Chakrovorti highlights challenges in data accessibility, especially in cross-border data movement. He suggests that India’s potential hinges on responsible data accessibility. Despite having a vast talent pool, the educational system’s pace needs improvement to fully tap into this resource.

Chakrovorti notes the need for regulatory frameworks to support AI start-ups, noting that the influx of capital is promising but requires proper governance. He urges the Indian government to establish AI safety regulations, addressing surveillance concerns, enhancing privacy and security, and fostering innovation. However, he acknowledges that shaping these regulations may be a time-consuming process.

India’s data access restrictions contrast with the evolving nature of its AI regulations. The Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) issued a consultation paper in July, advocating for a statutory authority to regulate AI within a ‘risk-based framework.’