Puch AI Co-Founder Clarifies Funding Misconceptions: No Taxpayer Money Involved
Synopsis
Puch AI co-founder Siddharth Bhatia clarifies that their agreement with the Uttar Pradesh government does not involve public funds. The partnership aims to attract investment while ensuring free AI services for Indian citizens.
Key Takeaways
Puch AI has clarified that no taxpayer money is involved in its agreement with the Uttar Pradesh government.
The MoU aims to attract private investment.
Citizens will benefit from free AI services in local languages.
The startup is described as well-funded and not bootstrapped.
Puch AI focuses on accessibility via platforms like WhatsApp .
New Delhi, March 24 (NationPress) In light of increased scrutiny regarding its collaboration with the Uttar Pradesh government, Puch AI co-founder Siddharth Bhatia provided a comprehensive explanation on Tuesday. He emphasized that the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) established with the state does not utilize any public funding. Instead, it aims to foster investment opportunities without relying on taxpayer resources.
In a statement shared on the social media platform X, Bhatia detailed that this partnership is structured as a public-private venture and will unfold in stages, supported by external investors.
“Our company has not received any financial aid, GPUs, or any other assistance from the government. Citizens will benefit from free access to AI services in local languages via our platform,” he noted.
This clarification arrives at a moment when the Uttar Pradesh government has reiterated that the MoU is non-binding and merely a preliminary measure.
Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath previously mentioned that such agreements do not guarantee final project endorsement and are subject to thorough evaluation.
In response to financial rumors, Bhatia addressed the inaccuracies surrounding claims that Puch AI generates revenue of Rs 42.9 lakh, clarifying that this confusion likely stems from another company.
While he stated that Puch AI's financial information is not publicly available, he characterized the startup as well-funded rather than bootstrapped.
Regarding its technology, Bhatia remarked that the company does not possess its own foundational AI model, viewing it as unnecessary at this point.
“Instead, we have constructed infrastructure utilizing open-source models tailored for Indian users, prioritizing accessibility via platforms like WhatsApp and voice interaction,” he explained.
“Our mission is to make AI accessible to millions of Indians who currently face language and usability challenges when using tools like ChatGPT or Google Gemini,” he added.
Bhatia also countered critiques that the platform functions merely as a “wrapper,” asserting that they do not depend on APIs from companies like OpenAI or Anthropic, having developed their infrastructure independently. However, he acknowledged that the interpretation of such terms can vary.
Point of View
It is essential to highlight the significance of Siddharth Bhatia's statement regarding Puch AI's agreement with the Uttar Pradesh government. The commitment to ensuring no taxpayer funds are utilized reflects a responsible approach to fostering innovation and investment, pivotal for the growth of AI in India.
NationPress
10 May 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the nature of the agreement between Puch AI and the Uttar Pradesh government?
The agreement is a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) aimed at attracting investment without using taxpayer money.
Is Puch AI receiving any public funding?
No, Puch AI has clarified that it has not received any public funds, GPUs, or government support.
How does Puch AI plan to make AI accessible to users?
Puch AI aims to provide free access to AI services in local languages, focusing on platforms like WhatsApp.
What financial claims have been made about Puch AI?
Siddharth Bhatia refuted claims of Puch AI generating Rs 42.9 lakh in revenue, attributing the confusion to another firm.
Does Puch AI have its own AI model?
No, the company does not possess its own foundational AI model but uses open-source models tailored for Indian users.
