The AI Divide: Lack of Equitable Access for India’s Downtrodden4 min read·Just now--Artificial Intelligence (AI) is transforming industries, reshaping economies, and defining the future of work. However, in a country as diverse and stratified as India, AI is far from being equitable. The marginalized communities, which include economically weaker sections, rural populations, and historically disadvantaged groups, remain largely excluded from AI’s potential benefits.Despite the Indian government’s gradual push towards AI infrastructure, the gap in accessibility and affordability remains stark. This article explores the inequities in AI access, using data, case studies, and policy analysis to underline the urgency for democratization.India’s AI Budget and the Global RaceThe Indian government has recognized the potential of AI and allocated a substantial budget towards its development. In the 2023–24 budget, India set aside ₹7,000 crore ($850 million) for digital transformation initiatives, including AI research. The National AI Strategy, spearheaded by NITI Aayog, aims to propel AI innovation. However, when compared to global AI investments, India lags significantly. The United States has committed $249 billion in AI funding since 2019, while China’s AI investment surpasses $190 billion. India’s budgetary allocation reflects intent but not competitive scalability.While AI research hubs like Bengaluru, Hyderabad, and Pune flourish, these advancements rarely trickle down to rural India, where over 65% of the population resides. The government’s AI initiatives often cater to urban corporate sectors, leaving villages and underprivileged groups behind.The AI Literacy and Digital DivideA 2022 report by the Internet and Mobile Association of India (IAMAI) found that only 43% of Indians have access to the internet, with even lower numbers in rural areas. AI-based learning, digital literacy, and computational education are practically nonexistent in many government-run schools.Consider the story of Akram, a 19-year-old gig entrepreneur from the outskirts of Kannauj, Uttar Pradesh. Akram, who drives an auto-rickshaw in Mumbai, earns between ₹700-₹1,100 per day but has no exposure to AI-driven platforms that could enhance his livelihood. Digital platforms that utilize AI for financial planning, skill development, and market insights remain inaccessible due to lack of internet literacy and financial constraints.Contrast this with an urban student in Mumbai who has access to AI-powered learning tools, coding boot camps, and mentorship programs. This disparity isn’t just about access but about the entire ecosystem’s failure to accommodate the marginalized in the AI revolution.The private sector has surged ahead in AI adoption. Startups and tech giants like TCS, Infosys, and Reliance are investing billions in AI-driven automation. However, only 18% of Indian MSMEs (Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises) have access to AI tools, as per a 2023 Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) report.Even within government schemes, AI-driven welfare initiatives remain inaccessible to those who need them the most. For example, AI-powered agricultural advisory platforms help farmers optimize yield, but only 27% of small farmers in India have access to such digital solutions due to affordability and lack of digital literacy.Need for AI DecentralizationTo bridge the AI divide, India must take a democratic, decentralized approach to AI literacy and accessibility:AI in Schools: AI education should be integrated into the curriculum of government and low-income private schools, ensuring that children from marginalized backgrounds are not left behind.Community AI Centers: Similar to the Common Service Centers (CSCs) established for digital literacy, AI knowledge hubs should be created in villages, allowing community-driven AI learning.Affordable AI Infrastructure: The government must push for subsidized AI-driven tools for MSMEs, small businesses, and self-employed individuals, allowing them to compete in the AI economy.Public-Private Collaboration: Tech giants investing in AI should have mandatory community AI outreach programs, ensuring that AI does not remain an urban privilege.Linguistic AI Inclusion: AI tools must cater to India’s linguistic diversity, supporting regional languages for wider accessibility.Need For A More Inclusive AI FutureAI is a defining force in the global economy, but its benefits must not remain exclusive to urban elites. With India’s commitment to becoming a $5 trillion economy, equitable AI access is crucial to uplifting its vast marginalized population.By investing in AI education, community-driven initiatives, and digital inclusivity, India can truly democratize AI and ensure that no one — irrespective of their socio-economic background — is left behind in this technological revolution.The AI revolution must not mirror historical injustices but instead serve as a tool for equitable progress. The time for action is now.(This blog was first published on Aurix)