India is taking major steps to strengthen its AI capabilities after the rise of Chinese AI startup DeepSeek. The government lately announced several initiatives to boost domestic AI development such as building homegrown Graphics Processing Unit (GPU), launching foundational AI model and expanding computing infrastructure. The efforts are basically aimed at positioning India as a key player in the AI world and reducing reliance on global tech giants.
Union IT Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw earlier revealed that India will develop its own GPU soon. GPUs were once used mainly for gaming, but the machines have now become essential for AI model training and deployment. The current global GPU market is dominated by Nvidia and the move of India signals its ambition to build indigenous technology. Moreover, the government has announced plans to launch a large language model (LLM) tailored to linguistic and cultural diversity of India. The model is developed under the ₹10,370 crore IndiaAI Mission and aims to address local needs as well as reduce biases found in AI systems built for Western markets.
The government is learned to provide 18,000 high-end GPUs to startups, researchers and developers at affordable rates. Companies such as Yotta, Jio Platforms and Tata Communications will contribute to the effort. The move is expected to provide the necessary computing power for Indian AI startups to compete globally. Moreover, a common GPU compute facility will be launched to offer AI computing power at subsidized rates. The government will further support AI developers by covering 40% of the costs.
The government has allocated ₹500 crore to establish a Centre of Excellence for AI in Education. The initiative follows similar efforts in agriculture, healthcare and smart cities. Moreover, five National Centres of Excellence for Skilling will be launched in collaboration with global partners to train young professionals in AI and semiconductor technology.
