The Economic Survey 2025–26, presented in Parliament, views artificial intelligence (AI) as a practical economic tool, not just a technological race for prestige. It advocates for AI adoption in India based on economic needs and social responsibility, promoting sector-specific AI solutions over centralized systems. The survey stresses the importance of open, collaborative systems that leverage India’s skilled workforce and diverse data for innovation.
AI’s growing demand in India is driven by real-world challenges, with applications in healthcare, agriculture, education, urban planning, disaster management, and public services. These AI solutions are designed to be cost-effective, scalable, and tailored for resource-constrained environments, addressing structural issues and lowering costs. The survey underscores the need for AI strategies that support India’s long-term growth without creating new dependencies, acknowledging global disparities in AI development and leveraging them to shape realistic policy directions.
