Celebrating India’s AI Journey
India’s AI Appreciation Day Celebrates Innovation and Inclusion: India observed AI Appreciation Day on July 16, 2025, marking its emergence as a global AI power. This day highlights India’s intent to use Artificial Intelligence not only for technological leadership but also for inclusive growth and social transformation.
Evolution of AI in India
India’s tryst with AI began as early as the 1960s, with foundational work in computer science. A major breakthrough came with the Knowledge-Based Computer Systems (KBCS) project in 1986. During the 1990s, institutions like C-DAC led efforts in supercomputing and AI experimentation.
By the 2000s, IT giants such as TCS, Infosys, and Wipro started significant investments in AI research. The Digital India Mission (2015) and NITI Aayog’s National AI Strategy (2018) gave policy momentum, integrating AI across public and private domains.
Static GK fact: C-DAC (Centre for Development of Advanced Computing) was established in 1988 to develop India’s first supercomputer, PARAM.
Role of AI Across Sectors
AI is making transformative changes in healthcare, education, agriculture, governance, and industry. From diagnosing illnesses in rural clinics to customizing learning modules and boosting crop productivity, AI is reshaping service delivery.
India’s large population and complex needs create a robust testing ground for globally scalable AI solutions. This gives India a unique advantage in applying AI for real-world impact.
Static GK Tip: India is among the top 10 countries in AI research output globally.
Driving Forces Behind the Movement
The government’s “AI for All” mission emphasizes equity, innovation, and responsibility. It focuses on enhancing public welfare, building capacity, and ensuring ethical AI usage.
Key objectives include:
- Improving citizens’ quality of life
- Enabling employment and skill development
- Enhancing government efficiency
- Promoting research and innovation
- Ensuring ethical deployment
Major National Initiatives
India has launched several programmes to support AI proliferation:
- Skill India AI Portal offers free AI modules and certifications.
- National AI Skilling Programme and Youth AI Bootcamps promote AI literacy.
- AI integration in vocational centres helps preserve traditional crafts using technology.
- Public-private partnerships with tech giants like Google, Microsoft, and IBM enable cutting-edge research.
- AI research hubs and incubation centres strengthen links between academia and industry.
Static GK Tip: NITI Aayog was established in 2015, replacing the Planning Commission, to drive policy innovation.
Static Usthadian Current Affairs Table
India’s AI Appreciation Day Celebrates Innovation and Inclusion:
| Topic | Detail |
| AI Appreciation Day | Observed on July 16, 2025 |
| Early AI Milestone | KBCS project launched in 1986 |
| Key Policy | National AI Strategy by NITI Aayog (2018) |
| Digital Push | Digital India Mission launched in 2015 |
| Leading IT Players | TCS, Infosys, Wipro |
| Government Vision | “AI for All” initiative |
| Key Training Platforms | Skill India AI Portal, AI Bootcamps |
| Major Partnerships | Google, Microsoft, IBM |
| AI in Traditional Sectors | Vocational training in weaving, metalwork |
| Research Infrastructure | AI research hubs and incubators |
