Talent, compute and R&D key to India's AI ambitions: Report
India will need to strengthen its talent pool, research and development (R&D) capabilities, computing infrastructure and data systems to translate advances in artificial intelligence (AI) and other emerging technologies into economic and social benefits, according to a report by KPMG.
A recent KPMG report highlights the importance of talent, computing infrastructure, research and development (R&D), enterprises, and digital public systems for India to fully realize the benefits of artificial intelligence (AI) and other emerging technologies.
The report emphasizes that technology alone will not suffice for India's future growth and competitiveness. Instead, the nation must develop the necessary capabilities to deploy these technologies at scale. Key questions include whether India can cultivate the required talent, research capabilities, enterprises, data infrastructure, and institutions to create value from emerging technologies.
To achieve this, the report identifies five essential building blocks: talent, research and development, computing and data infrastructure, enterprises capable of scaling technology, and digital public infrastructure. India will need skilled professionals in research, engineering, data science, design, and technical trades to support the development and deployment of emerging technologies.
Moreover, strengthening research capabilities in universities, laboratories, and businesses is crucial, alongside mechanisms to translate research findings into commercial applications. The report underscores the critical role of computing and data infrastructure, particularly for AI, which heavily relies on secure and well-governed data ecosystems.
The report cites India's UPI as a prime example of how robust technology infrastructure can revolutionize economic activity. With over 24.16 trillion transactions worth Rs 3.14 crore in FY2025-26, the UPI platform, registered by 55.49 crore users by June 2026, demonstrates the transformative power of a well-designed public digital platform that encourages innovation.
The report suggests that emerging technologies such as AI, semiconductors, quantum, space, drones, green hydrogen, rare earths, and biotechnology can provide opportunities for economic growth and societal progress. These technologies have the potential to enhance human capabilities and generate new sources of value across various sectors, including manufacturing, healthcare, agriculture, education, and governance.
However, realizing these benefits necessitates a strategic focus on talent development, research, infrastructure, and enterprise creation, alongside responsible governance. The report stresses that AI should be deployed ethically, securely, and inclusively, as technology's value is contingent upon the outcomes it enables.
Written by urgent.news from Economic Times Tech's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
