New Delhi, Feb 19 (NationPress) The CEO of Alphabet and Google, Sundar Pichai, addressed global leaders on Thursday, emphasizing that artificial intelligence (AI) is the technology that has profoundly inspired him, marking it as the "most significant platform shift of our times."

"No technology has made me envision greater possibilities than AI. This represents the largest platform shift of our age. We are on the verge of hyper-advancements and novel discoveries that could enable developing economies to leap over outdated systems," Pichai stated during the inaugural ceremony of the ‘India AI Impact Summit’ held in New Delhi.

He called upon governments and industries to act decisively and collaboratively, ensuring that the benefits of this technology reach everyone.

He cautioned that the positive impacts of AI are not guaranteed or automatic. The Google leader pointed out the scientific breakthroughs driven by AI, mentioning AlphaFold — a groundbreaking protein-folding project by Google DeepMind, utilized by "over three million researchers in more than 190 nations to create malaria vaccines."

AlphaFold has condensed decades of research into a publicly accessible database, he noted, adding that Google is also cataloguing DNA disease markers and developing AI agents that act as genuine collaborators in scientific research.

Pichai further discussed the company's expanding investments in India, including a comprehensive AI hub in Visakhapatnam, which is part of a $15 billion investment in infrastructure.

"Upon completion, this hub will feature gigawatt-scale computing and a new international subsea cable gateway, providing jobs and the advantages of advanced AI to people and businesses throughout India," he shared.

"It is fantastic to return to India. Each visit leaves me amazed at the rapid changes, and today is no exception," Pichai remarked.

The CEO also mentioned that the company is constructing subsea optical cables, including four new systems connecting the United States and India.

"AI will unmistakably transform the workforce — automating certain positions, evolving others, and creating entirely new job opportunities," he added, indicating that Google’s initiative to train 100 million individuals in digital skills will assist employees in adapting to AI-driven changes.

Earlier, Prime Minister Narendra Modi arrived at the AI India Summit to welcome global leaders to the event. The summit drew over 500 international AI leaders, including 100 CEOs and founders, 150 academics and researchers, and 400 CTOs, VPs, and philanthropists.

Government representatives included more than 20 heads of state and government, along with approximately 60 ministers and deputy ministers, fostering an unparalleled dialogue on AI's transformative potential.

aar/na