Is India the Third-Largest AI Power in the World, and How Can It Leverage This to Its Advantage?
Synopsis
At the India AI Impact Summit 2026, Mohandas Pai emphasizes India's status as the third-largest AI power, urging ethical technology usage. He warns about the potential cognitive decline in children due to excessive digital exposure and critiques political opposition for undermining national achievements.
Key Takeaways
India is the third largest AI power globally.
Deep tech and AI can create unprecedented opportunities .
There is a need for ethical and humane utilization of AI.
Developing data centers in India is crucial.
Concerns exist regarding AI's impact on children's cognitive abilities.
New Delhi, Feb 19 (NationPress) Renowned entrepreneur Mohandas Pai praised the current India AI Impact Summit 2026, expressing optimism that advancements in deep tech and AI solutions will generate unparalleled opportunities for the country and humanity as a whole. He also warned about the need for responsible and ethical use of these advanced technologies.
The former Infosys Chief Financial Officer (CFO) shared in an interview with IANS that India ranks as the third largest AI power globally and emphasized that this summit will further empower India’s ambitions in the AI landscape, though there remains significant work to be done.
According to Pai, AI is set to be a revolutionary force that will transform the world and boost human productivity.
"It will accelerate learning and teaching, improve healthcare, and change our world in ways we cannot yet imagine," Pai stated.
He remarked that the India AI Impact Summit 2026 aims to benefit humanity, provided it is implemented in an ethical and humane fashion, a sentiment echoed by Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
Pai highlighted the necessity of establishing data centers in India and creating our own large learning models to prevent dependence on Western nations like the US and China, which are vying to be leaders in AI services.
"We must avoid being mere consumers of AI; we need our own data centers with the capability to utilize and tailor AI to our specific requirements," he cautioned.
He expressed concern over the potential impact of AI on children, who are increasingly exposed to digital technology.
Recent studies, according to Pai, indicate a decline in cognitive abilities among children, which is alarming and raises questions about the intelligence of future generations.
When addressing the Opposition's criticisms labeling the summit as a 'PR spectacle,' Pai did not hold back his criticism.
He condemned the Congress party for undermining the country by focusing on its shortcomings rather than celebrating India's significant achievements in AI.
He reiterated that the extensive AI summit was ridiculed both by foreign entities and domestic critics, emphasizing that such behavior will not resonate well with the young and aspirational demographic, who will reject this negativity.
"If they continue to insult tech professionals, entrepreneurs, and our nation, will the public appreciate such actions?" Pai questioned.
Point of View
It is essential to recognize India's significant position in the global AI landscape. Mohandas Pai’s insights reflect both optimism and caution, urging the nation to harness AI responsibly while continuing to innovate and compete on the global stage.
NationPress
2 May 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the India AI Impact Summit 2026?
The India AI Impact Summit 2026 is a significant event focused on exploring advancements in AI and deep tech, showcasing India's position as a leader in this field.
Who is Mohandas Pai?
Mohandas Pai is a prominent businessman and the former Chief Financial Officer of Infosys, known for his insights on technology and economic development.
Why is AI important for India?
AI holds transformative potential for India, promising to enhance productivity, education, healthcare, and overall societal advancement.
What concerns did Mohandas Pai raise about AI?
Pai expressed concerns about the ethical use of AI, particularly its impact on children's cognitive development due to increased exposure to technology.
How did Mohandas Pai respond to the Opposition's criticism?
He criticized the Congress party for belittling India's achievements in AI and emphasized the importance of celebrating national progress.
