The IndiaAI Mission is committed to developing a comprehensive ecosystem that promotes AI innovation by democratizing computing access, enhancing data quality, developing indigenous AI capabilities, attracting top AI talent, enabling industry collaboration, providing startup risk capital, ensuring socially impactful AI projects, and promoting ethical AI. This mission drives the responsible and inclusive development of India's AI ecosystem.

It is a pivotal component of the government's strategy to strengthen India's position in the global artificial intelligence (AI) landscape. The mission aims to bolster the country's AI infrastructure, promote research and development in cutting-edge technologies, and foster an ecosystem that supports innovation and application of AI across various sectors.

Union Budget

The Indian government has earmarked Rs 21,936.90 crore for the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) fiscal year 2024-25. This allocation marks a significant revenue and capital expenditure increase, underscoring the government's commitment to accelerating digital transformation and enhancing the country's technological infrastructure. A substantial portion of this budget is directed towards the IndiaAI mission. 

The Cabinet approved an allocation of over Rs 10,300 crore for the IndiaAI Mission in March 2024, marking a significant step towards bolstering India’s AI ecosystem. This substantial financial infusion, slated over the next five years, is poised to catalyse various components of the IndiaAI Mission, including pivotal initiatives like the IndiaAI Compute Capacity, IndiaAI Innovation Centre (IAIC), IndiaAI Datasets Platform, IndiaAI Application Development Initiative, IndiaAI FutureSkills, IndiaAI Startup Financing, and Safe & Trusted AI.

Budget for IndiaAI mission

The Centre allotted Rs 21,936.90 crore in its budget to the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) for 2024-25. It reflects increased revenue and capital expenditures to accelerate digital transformation and strengthen the country's technology infrastructure. Notably, the government has budgeted over Rs 500 crore for the Rs 10,738-crore IndiaAI program to enhance the country's artificial intelligence infrastructure.

A new allocation of Rs 551.75 crore specifically for the IndiaAI Mission highlights the government’s dedication to advancing AI research and applications. This mission seeks to position India as a leading AI research, development, and deployment nation. The focus on AI is part of a larger vision to harness technology's transformative potential to drive economic growth, improve public services, and address critical societal challenges.

Digital infrastructure

MeitY also oversees several public sector undertakings that play crucial roles in India's digital infrastructure. These include the National Informatics Centre (NIC), which provides a range of digital services to the government; the Centre for Development of Advanced Computing (C-DAC), a key player in high-performance computing and advanced IT solutions; and the Indian Computer Emergency Response Team (CERT-In), which is responsible for enhancing cybersecurity and responding to cyber threats.

Moreover, the ministry administers initiatives such as the Production Linked Incentive (PLI) scheme for semiconductors and hardware, designed to boost domestic manufacturing and reduce reliance on imports. This scheme aims to attract investments, create jobs, and build a robust electronics and hardware manufacturing ecosystem in India.

Conclusion

In summary, the increased budget allocation for MeitY in 2024-25 reflects a strategic push towards digital transformation and technological self-reliance. The focus on AI through the IndiaAI program and mission indicates the government's intention to position India as a global leader in emerging technologies while enhancing the country's digital and cybersecurity infrastructure.

Source: India budget

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