At the St. Petersburg International Economic Forum (SPIEF) 2026, Kalli Purie, Vice-Chairperson and Editor-in-Chief of India Today Group, asserted that India is uniquely positioned to spearhead the next wave of artificial intelligence (AI) applications globally.
Speaking during a session focused on AI and media, Purie highlighted India's rapid adoption of AI technologies. She suggested that the nation's primary advantage in the AI sector might not lie in developing foundational AI models from the ground up, but rather in crafting innovative applications that leverage the capabilities of models already created by major international technology firms.
India's Strategic Advantage in AI Applications
Purie elaborated on this strategic approach, noting that India's extensive digital ecosystem, burgeoning talent pool, and massive consumer base provide a fertile ground for AI-driven innovation. She pointed out India's high engagement with AI technologies across various demographics.
"India is right on top of every table with consumers engaging with AI," Purie stated, underscoring the country's large and increasingly tech-savvy user base.
She further added, "We could also be the ones that drive AI application on top of the models that have been built out by big tech right now." This perspective aligns with a broader recognition that India's scale and vibrant digital economy could transform it into a global hub for practical AI use cases and innovation.
Surge in AI Adoption Across Sectors
India is currently experiencing a significant surge in AI adoption across a multitude of sectors, including education, healthcare, finance, governance, and media. The country has also emerged as one of the largest markets for AI-powered consumer platforms, with millions actively exploring and utilizing generative AI tools.
These developments reinforce Purie's vision of India becoming a crucial player in shaping the future of AI innovation, focusing on practical and impactful applications that build upon existing technological foundations.