India is on the path to becoming a global hub for artificial intelligence (AI), according to technology futurist Stephen Ibaraki. To achieve this, he emphasized the need for the country to leverage its vast talent pool and establish AI-focused centers of excellence through collaboration with academic institutions and industry leaders.
Ibaraki highlighted India’s robust digital infrastructure as a key advantage. He urged continued investment in AI research and development, while also creating a supportive environment for startups and innovation.
Moreover, he stressed the importance of government policies that encourage foreign investments in AI. Public-private partnerships, he noted, should be facilitated to scale AI initiatives across critical sectors such as healthcare, agriculture, and finance.
New technologies, especially AI, are emerging as the primary strategic differentiators that determine the economic prosperity of nations. India, a founding member of the Global Partnership on Artificial Intelligence (GPAI), joined this multi-stakeholder initiative in June 2020.
The recent approval by the Cabinet of over Rs 10,300 crore for the comprehensive ‘India AI Mission’ is a significant step towards democratizing access to AI innovation pillars and enhancing the global competitiveness of India’s AI ecosystem.
Ibaraki, who is based in Canada, praised the India AI Mission. He stated that countries can ensure responsible, safe, and trusted AI by developing robust regulatory frameworks that emphasize ethical AI development and deployment, while still promoting innovation.
These frameworks, according to him, should include clear guidelines on data privacy, transparency, and accountability. Governments should work closely with international bodies, the private sector, and academia to create standards that align with global best practices.
Furthermore, Ibaraki stressed the importance of public awareness and education on AI’s benefits and risks. He believes this will help build trust and ensure AI systems are used for the greater good.
During his visit to India, Ibaraki participated in an event organized by the Young Presidents’ Organization (YPO) in Bengaluru. He also addressed students at the Sona College of Technology in Tamil Nadu on emerging technologies.
According to Ibaraki, AI can enhance human jobs by taking over repetitive tasks, allowing workers to focus on more creative and complex aspects of their roles. He underscored the importance of reskilling and upskilling programs to equip the workforce with the necessary skills to work alongside AI.
By fostering a collaborative environment where AI tools enhance rather than replace human capabilities, businesses can drive innovation while ensuring job security, he concluded.