February 19, 2025. By: Vikas Kanungo
MUNICH, Germany — The Munich Cyber Security Conference 2025 has underscored India’s significant potential in artificial intelligence (AI) development, with prominent figures emphasizing the country’s unique position in the global tech landscape. Nandan Nilekani, co-founder of Infosys and a leading voice in the tech industry, articulated this vision during his remarks at the conference.
Nilekani stated that India is on the brink of becoming one of the largest users and developers of AI technologies. He highlighted the country’s extensive digital infrastructure, noting that “Every Indian has a digital ID that can be authenticated online,” which facilitates an inclusive approach to technology adoption. This framework, he argued, provides a solid foundation for leveraging AI at scale. The discussion also touched upon India’s Unified Payments Interface (UPI), a revolutionary digital payment system that has transformed financial transactions across the nation. With approximately 17 billion transactions monthly and 400 million users, UPI exemplifies how technology can be deployed effectively to serve a vast population. Nilekani emphasized that such innovations position India favorably in the global AI race.
In addition to Nilekani’s insights, Maggie Feldman-Piltch, Founder and Managing Director of Unicorn Strategies, remarked on India’s growing influence in global security dialogues, particularly regarding AI governance. She noted that as the largest democracy, India bears both a unique responsibility and opportunity to shape ethical AI regulations and counter hybrid threats in an increasingly complex geopolitical landscape.
The conference serves as a platform for discussing not only technological advancements but also the ethical implications and governance surrounding AI deployment, particularly in light of rising tensions in regions like the Indo-Pacific. As nations grapple with the challenges posed by AI, India’s proactive stance could play a crucial role in defining future global standards and practices.
As the world looks toward innovative solutions to pressing security challenges, India’s contributions to AI development are poised to be pivotal.
