Opinion | The Paris AI Summit and India’s Emerging Role in the Global AI Landscape

With strong policies, growing investments, and a skilled workforce, India is well on its way to becoming an AI powerhouse.

Artificial intelligence is no longer a futuristic concept—it is shaping our present and defining our future. The recent AI Summit held in Paris was a testament to the growing global consensus on the need for responsible AI development. With India positioning itself as a key player in the AI revolution, the summit provided a stage to highlight the nation’s strategic progress and its commitment to ethical AI governance. The Paris AI Summit, hosted in early 2025, was a high-profile event that brought together government leaders, technology pioneers, and policy experts to discuss AI’s future. One of the most significant outcomes of the summit was the Joint Declaration on Inclusive and Sustainable AI, signed by 58 countries, including India. The declaration underscored the need for AI policies that prioritize ethical considerations, equitable access, and international collaboration. However, notable absentees from this commitment included the United States and the United Kingdom, citing concerns about potential regulatory constraints on innovation.
Parallel to the summit, India and France held their second AI Policy Roundtable, which focused on AI governance, cross-border partnerships, and responsible AI deployment. The discussions reinforced India’s proactive approach to AI policymaking, aligning with its broader vision of leveraging AI for national development while ensuring global cooperation. India’s dedication to AI advancement has been evident through its recent initiatives. The All India Council for Technical Education (AICTE) declared 2025 as the “Year of AI,” aiming to integrate AI education into the curriculum of thousands of colleges and impact nearly 40 million students. By fostering AI literacy at an academic level, India is ensuring that the next generation is equipped with the skills needed to drive AI innovation.
Economically, India is rapidly emerging as a formidable force in the AI sector. The country’s IT industry, valued at $250 billion, provides a strong foundation for AI-driven growth. Analysts predict that India’s AI services market could reach $17 billion by 2027, fueled by private-sector investments and government-backed initiatives. The IndiaAI Mission, a $1.25 billion program launched by the Indian government, aims to catalyze AI innovation across industries such as healthcare, agriculture, and education.Healthcare, in particular, stands to benefit immensely from AI-driven solutions. Apollo Hospitals, one of India’s leading healthcare providers, is ramping up investments in AI to alleviate the workload of medical professionals. The initiative is expected to free up two to three hours per day for doctors and nurses, allowing them to focus on patient care rather than administrative tasks.
Beyond industry advancements, India’s AI talent pool is growing at an unprecedented rate. Reports suggest that the country’s AI workforce will expand from 650,000 to 1.25 million by 2027. This surge in AI professionals is being driven by upskilling programs, university collaborations, and targeted government policies aimed at bridging the talent gap. Further solidifying its position in the global AI ecosystem, India launched the “AI for India 2030” initiative in partnership with the World Economic Forum. This long-term strategy is designed to integrate AI across various sectors while prioritizing ethical, inclusive, and sustainable AI development. By taking a balanced approach—embracing innovation while ensuring responsible deployment—India is emerging as a leader in AI-driven economic transformation.As the world grapples with the challenges and opportunities that AI presents, India’s commitment to a structured, ethical, and inclusive AI strategy sets a precedent for other nations to follow. The Paris AI Summit reinforced the importance of international cooperation in shaping AI policies, and India has demonstrated that it is not just participating in the global AI race but is actively contributing to its responsible evolution.
With strong policies, growing investments, and a skilled workforce, India is well on its way to becoming an AI powerhouse. As AI continues to reshape industries and economies, India’s approach—one that blends innovation with ethical considerations—offers a compelling model for the world.

About the Author
Advocate Tahir is a policy analyst from Jammu & Kashmir, focusing on AI, governance, and economic development. He is the Content Director of the North Kashmir Gazette. He can be reached on advocatetahir2024@gmail.com