St. Petersburg, Russia – India has emerged as a global leader in artificial intelligence adoption, but the human element in journalism remains irreplaceable, stated Kalli Purie, Vice-Chairperson and Editor-in-Chief of the India Today Group, at the St. Petersburg International Economic Forum (SPIEF) 2026.
During a discussion on AI and media, Purie underscored India's unique advantage, noting its large digital population and rapid familiarity with AI tools. She suggested that India's strength lies not necessarily in creating foundational AI models from scratch, but in developing innovative applications that leverage existing models built by major technology firms.
India's Edge in AI Applications
“India is right on top of every table with consumers engaging with AI,” Purie remarked. She elaborated that the country's vibrant ecosystem could position it as a frontrunner in creating practical, AI-driven solutions across diverse industries, from healthcare and education to finance and governance. This surge in AI adoption has made India one of the largest markets for AI-powered consumer platforms, with millions actively exploring generative AI tools.
Preserving Human Storytelling in Journalism
Despite acknowledging AI's transformative potential, Purie stressed that certain aspects of journalism cannot and should not be automated. As news organizations increasingly experiment with AI-powered tools, she highlighted the growing imperative to preserve authentic human storytelling and firsthand reporting.
To reinforce this principle, India Today has launched a dedicated editorial initiative called “Handmade.” This program encourages reporters and editors to produce stories rooted in direct observation and lived experience, focusing on what journalists personally witness – what they saw, heard, and experienced – rather than relying solely on standardized reporting formats or aggregated information.
Global Perspectives on AI and Media
Also speaking at the forum, Wang Bin, Director of the Eurasian Bureau of China Media Group, raised concerns regarding data security as organizations integrate AI tools requiring broader system access. “Balancing efficiency with cybersecurity remains a major challenge,” Bin stated. He noted that China is actively developing industry-specific AI models for the media sector and prioritizing the creation of a robust national AI infrastructure.
The discussions at SPIEF 2026 underscore a critical juncture for media and technology, where the rapid advancement of AI must be carefully balanced with ethical considerations and the enduring value of human insight and integrity.