Synopsis
The $500 billion Stargate Project is poised to offer India a unique opportunity to enhance its AI initiatives through increased collaboration with the US. Industry experts emphasize the potential for strategic partnerships and domestic capability growth.Key Takeaways
- Stargate Project valued at $500 billion.
- Opportunity for India to enhance AI capabilities.
- Collaboration with the US through iCET and IPEF.
- Significant involvement of major tech firms in India.
- IndiaAI mission backed by substantial funding.
New Delhi, Jan 22 (NationPress) The $500 billion Stargate Project, conceived by OpenAI, Softbank, Oracle, and other key players, presents a remarkable chance for India to propel its AI aspirations by strengthening collaborations with the United States, industry specialists noted on Wednesday.
This can be achieved through India's engagement in the Critical and Emerging Technology (iCET) agreement and the Indo-Pacific Economic Framework for Prosperity (IPEF)—co-developing innovative technologies and enhancing domestic capabilities.
“Proactive diplomacy, capitalizing on India’s role in iCET and IPEF, strategic investments, and collaborative methods will be essential for ensuring that India not only capitalizes on global advancements in AI but also positions itself as a powerful contender in the international AI arena,” stated Ashok Chandak, President of the India Electronics and Semiconductor Association (IESA).
While the primary aim of the Stargate Project is to reinforce the US's leadership in the AI domain, it simultaneously offers opportunities for India to leverage.
Major corporations backing this initiative—including Nvidia, Arm, Microsoft, Softbank, Oracle, and OpenAI—already maintain a significant presence in India and actively utilize local talent.
“This opens pathways for Indian professionals to gain exposure and contribute to such a significant project, further enhancing their skills in advanced AI technologies,” commented Chandak.
There is cautious optimism that the current administration may consider industry feedback during the 120-day review period and adopt a more lenient approach regarding AI export controls, particularly for India and other strategic allies.
As per Dr. Ajai Chowdhry, founder of HCL and chairman of the National Quantum Mission, this initiative signifies a serious effort to exert control over AI, in addition to the ownership of all major large language models (LLMs) by the US.
“For strategic autonomy, we must develop our own AI doctrine and take charge of our data rigorously. Additionally, we need to establish our own domestic hardware for data centers as controlling our data will prove challenging,” emphasized Chowdhry.
It is crucial for the government and industry to collaborate in formulating a new AI strategy, he added.
The country initiated the IndiaAI mission last year to boost AI advancements domestically. The Union Cabinet, under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, sanctioned an allocation exceeding Rs 10,300 crore for the IndiaAI Mission, marking a pivotal step towards strengthening the AI ecosystem in India.
According to the government, around 8.6 lakh candidates have enrolled in the IndiaAI ‘Future Skills’ program, which was developed in partnership with industry players to provide training that meets current demands.
