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India's AI Usage: Uneven Growth Sparks Concern
17 Feb
Summary
- India is second globally in overall AI usage, but ranks low per capita.
- AI adoption is concentrated in tech-heavy states like Maharashtra and Delhi.
- AI adoption must extend beyond a narrow segment for widespread benefits.
Anthropic executive Elizabeth Kelly highlighted India's dual role as a major AI user while facing per capita access challenges. Speaking at the AI Summit 2026 on February 17, 2026, she noted that AI usage in India is concentrated in tech-centric states like Maharashtra, Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, and Delhi.
Kelly stated that India's high overall usage, ranking second globally, contrasts with its 101st per capita ranking. She emphasized that equitable distribution of AI's benefits requires broader AI fluency and access, cautioning that concentrated adoption will lead to concentrated gains. The discussion also touched upon AI's potential to enhance teacher efficiency and remove barriers in education.
During the panel, Shankar Maruwada of EkStep Foundation suggested AI could create jobs rather than replace them, particularly in India, where significant investment in automation by small businesses is unlikely in the near future. This discussion took place during the India AI Impact Summit 2026, hosted by the union government from February 16-20.
