India Should Embrace Open-Source AI Models: Amitabh Kant

While other countries invest billions in building proprietary AI foundational models, India should embrace open-source technologies and leverage its strengths in low energy consumption and cost-effective solutions, said Amitabh Kant, G20 Sherpa and former CEO of NITI Aayog, on April 4.

“DeepSeek was able to achieve its results with a significantly lower investment—just $4.5 million. This was possible because they embraced open-source technologies. Indian startups have a unique opportunity. They must focus on leveraging their software capabilities to innovate in AI while operating with limited hardware, lower energy consumption, and cost-effective solutions”, said Kant.

This stance by the former NITI Aayog CEO contrasts with the government’s current view, as the IT Minister recently indicated that India is exploring the development of domestic large language models (LLMs), citing concerns that existing open-source AI models may not remain open in the future.

“Looking ahead, AI will consume an enormous amount of power. In fact, according to the International Energy Agency (IEA), AI is projected to consume more energy than entire countries in the near future. This makes it all the more crucial for India to lead in developing energy-efficient AI systems”, added Kant.

With USA has imposed 26% reciprocal tariff on all Indian imports, Amitabh Kant said, 'Despite the current global political uncertainty—including the recent imposition of high tariffs by the United States, disruptions in global supply chains, and volatility in capital flows—Indian startups continue to thrive and disrupt in a big way.'"

Recognising support from the government and other financial institutions for the startups, he also suggested Indian startups to focus on Artificial Intelligence (AI).

Machine Learning (ML), Blockchain, Big Data, Electric Mobility, etc that can transition India from a global service provider to a global innovator.

“China today controls 70% of the global solar market, 74% of the battery market, and nearly 80% of the electric vehicle market. If India is to compete and lead, we need radical innovation and bold breakthroughs—and these will not come from established players. They will come from young, disruptive startups”, he added.