AI for India: Focus on Real-World Problems

Anna Roy, Principal Economic Advisor at NITI Aayog, stated that Artificial Intelligence (AI) solutions must be developed to address concrete challenges in sectors such as agriculture, healthcare, and education. Enterprises that successfully link AI to ground-level problems will find a viable market for their products.

Roy also highlighted efforts to boost women's participation in AI innovation. Initiatives like the 'AI by Her' challenge showcase women entrepreneurs developing AI-based solutions. The Women Entrepreneurship Platform (WEP) will launch an accelerator program for top women AI founders identified through these challenges.

Addressing broader entrepreneurship trends, Roy noted that while women-led enterprises show promise, they have not yet reached their full potential. She pointed out that access to knowledge is a more significant barrier for women entrepreneurs than access to finance. Government schemes aim to bolster entrepreneurship, and registering on platforms like WEP offers access to numerous government schemes and mentorship.

Roy underscored the economic imperative of women's involvement, stating that increased participation in the workforce can significantly boost GDP growth. Achieving India's development goals, such as 'Viksit Bharat,' necessitates greater female engagement across all economic sectors and robust support for women-led businesses.