Union Minister of Electronics and IT, Ashwini Vaishnaw, has announced that the evaluation of AI large language model (LLM) applications is now in its final stage. This milestone marks a significant step forward in India’s ambitious plan to develop its own generative AI models under the IndiaAI Mission. The government is set to award funding to the most promising LLM teams, paving the way for the creation of foundational AI models tailored for India’s unique needs.
The government will soon provide funding to select LLM teams under the ₹10,000 crore AI Mission. These teams will spearhead the development of India’s first generative AI model. Vaishnaw noted that industries across sectors like education, healthcare, and manufacturing are rapidly adopting AI technology, showcasing its transformative potential.
India aims to host an open-source AI model to ensure accessibility and transparency, similar to initiatives in other countries. The IndiaAI Mission has established a high-end computing facility equipped with 18,693 GPUs, one of the largest globally. Additional GPUs are being procured to enhance compute capabilities for startups and researchers.
India’s foundational AI model will focus on addressing local challenges by incorporating Indian languages, cultural contexts, and unbiased data processing. This initiative aligns with the government’s broader goal of reducing dependence on foreign technologies while fostering innovation within the country.
While India is making strides in AI development, challenges such as low private R&D investment, infrastructure limitations for semiconductor manufacturing, and talent acquisition remain hurdles in realising its full potential as a global AI leader.
The final evaluation stage of LLM applications signals a transformative moment for India’s digital ecosystem. With robust infrastructure and funding support, India is poised to launch its first foundational AI model soon, setting the stage for innovation across industries and contributing significantly to global AI advancements.