India has multiple problems at hand, and intelligent solutions hold the key. To that end, researchers across India publish hundreds of research papers, conduct fundamental research, and make datasets and tools available to the broader research community for a collaborative approach.  

Here are some AI research collaborations and initiatives in India that you don't want to miss:  

AI for development: The Maharashtra government signed a Memorandum of Understanding with search engine giant Google to utilize artificial intelligence for agriculture, healthcare, and education solutions. The MoU was signed at the company's office here by Deputy Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, Sanjay Gupta, country head and vice president of Google India, and state Chief Secretary Nitin Kareer.  

Neurosurgery simulation training: The All-India Institute of Medical Science (AIIMS) has reportedly collaborated with IIT Delhi and designed an AI-based simulator to train and evaluate budding neurosurgeons for minimally invasive microscopic and endoscopic surgical skills. As per the experts, it aims to change how neurosurgical skills, actions that bring considerable differences in brain surgery, are observed and evaluated. The system majorly eases the burden behind evaluation on neurosurgeons and establishes a standard in training and assessment protocols within the field.   

The principal investigator of the neuro-engineering facility and unit head of the neurosurgery department at AIIMS Delhi, Dr Ashish Suri, mentioned, "In the current apprenticeship model, the neurosurgeons learn by observing and assisting an expert inside the operating room. The traditional approach to training is becoming increasingly prohibitive due to the lack of efficient training. Intelligent smart surgical simulators are an effective alternative to cope with these inherent problems of the apprenticeship model and provide effective training."  

Ericson and IIT Madras: Telecom company Ericsson and the Indian Institute of Technology Madras announced a partnership for joint research in AI. The company has signed an agreement to become a Platinum Consortium Member for five years.  

According to the MoU signed, Ericsson Research will support and actively participate in all research activities at the Centre for Responsible AI (CeRAI).  

According to a report by the New Indian Express, Dr Magnus Frodigh, Global Head of Ericsson Research, stated that 6G and future networks aim to seamlessly integrate the physical and digital worlds, enabling immersive AR/VR experiences. While AI-controlled sensors connect humans and machines, responsible AI practices are essential to ensure trust, fairness, and compliance with privacy regulations.  

CoE on generative AI: India's leading technology services and consulting company, Wipro, announced the launch of a new Center of Excellence on Generative AI in partnership with the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Delhi. The Wipro CoE on Generative AI is anchored within the Yardi School of Artificial Intelligence (ScAI) at IIT Delhi and will support foundational and applied research, nurture talent, and expand state-of-the-art in this critical field.   

The partnership underscores Wipro's commitment to driving ongoing innovation in emerging technologies. It is part of the company's $1 billion commitment to accelerating AI-led innovation as part of the Wipro ai360 ecosystem.  

Indian Army's accident prevention system: The Indian Army has secured a patent for an AI-powered accident prevention system. Developed within the Army's research and development (R&D) division, this system is poised to enhance road safety and mitigate accidents.   

This achievement was announced through a tweet, highlighting the system's capacity to mitigate accidents caused by drowsiness-induced lapses in driver attentiveness. Colonel Kuldeep Yadav has been credited as the inventor of this AI-driven accident prevention system. The patent application was officially filed on February 2, 2021. As per the patent certificate shared by the Indian Army, it will remain valid for 20 years.