Is GenAI Adoption in India Surpassing Initial Stages?
Synopsis
As India embraces generative AI, awareness has skyrocketed to 94%. With 62% actively using these technologies, the country is leading the global adoption curve. Discover how GenAI is reshaping shopping habits and influencing consumer decisions.
Key Takeaways
Generative AI awareness in India is at 94% .
62% of Indians are actively using GenAI .
Shopping applications are the third most popular use of GenAI .
GenAI use for shopping has grown by 35% in recent months .
Consumers are using GenAI for professional and personal decision-making .
New Delhi, Jan 6 (NationPress) The uptake of generative AI (GenAI) in India has significantly advanced beyond preliminary experimentation, with awareness now reaching 94 percent. Meanwhile, the actual usage has surged to 62 percent, positioning India among the global leaders in GenAI adoption, as reported on Tuesday.
GenAI is increasingly integrating into daily consumer activities, particularly in shopping. Shopping-related applications have become the third most prevalent use of GenAI, influencing not just high-value purchases, but also everyday items like groceries, according to a report by BCG.
The report indicates that the use of GenAI for shopping has escalated by 35 percent from February to November 2025. Its influence extends into both professional and consumer choices, with 63 percent of users depending on these tools at work and 64 percent utilizing them for brand and product research during their purchasing process.
“This evolution carries significant implications for brands. GenAI is now integral to consumer discovery, evaluation, and decision-making. As usage penetrates both personal and professional spheres, brands in India must ensure they are effectively represented in AI-driven experiences through clear value propositions, quality data, and responsible AI practices,” stated Kanika Sanghi, Partner and Director at BCG.
Since the start of BCG's tracking of global GenAI usage two years ago, consumer awareness has increased by 12 points, and actual use has risen by 25 points.
In various countries, nearly half of the population are GenAI users, including Brazil (63 percent), India (62 percent), Japan (48 percent), and the US (42 percent), as per the findings.
“Consumers leverage GenAI to explore and compare a wide array of products, from electronics and travel to groceries and healthcare,” the research revealed.
Additional findings from BCG indicate that GenAI assistants and chat tools have emerged as the second most influential touchpoint for consumers during their purchasing journey. Among daily users, these tools are recognized as the most impactful touchpoint overall.
Point of View
It's critical to recognize the transformative impact of generative AI on consumer behavior in India. The significant rise in awareness and usage showcases a pivotal shift in how brands will need to engage with their audiences, emphasizing the importance of responsible AI practices and high-quality data.
NationPress
8 May 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What is generative AI?
Generative AI refers to algorithms that can generate new content or data, including text, images, and more, often transforming how consumers interact with technology.
How is GenAI impacting shopping in India?
GenAI is influencing shopping habits by providing personalized recommendations and facilitating product comparisons, making it a key tool in the purchasing journey.
What is the current awareness level of GenAI in India?
As of the latest report, awareness of generative AI in India stands at an impressive 94%.
What percentage of Indians are using GenAI?
Currently, 62% of the Indian population is utilizing generative AI in various aspects of their lives.
How has GenAI adoption changed over the years?
In the past two years, awareness of GenAI has increased by 12 points, while actual usage has grown by 25 points.
