INDIA AND AI: INNOVATION LAG AND THE PATH TO SDG 9

Abstract

In today’s world, artificial intelligence (AI) has become central to fostering innovation and driving inclusive industrialization, especially for a rapidly growing economy such as India. India has launched ambitious AI programs aimed at driving future innovation and industrial transformation. This in turn will help India meet its SDG 9 goals. However, it is important to examine how far the national ambitions align with developments on the ground. The present study is grounded in the Five Battlegrounds AI framework, with a particular focus on the first and fifth aspects. We look at nine (N=9) media and corporate reports published between 2025 and 2026 to assess key narratives and trends related to AI innovation in India. The findings indicate that despite strong policy intent and public ambition, India continues to lag in core areas of AI innovation and requires significant catch-up. This gap may have important implications for India’s progress toward SDG 9. The paper also outlines key contours of a possible way forward.