Need and Impact of Full Stack Sovereign AI by CoRover BharatGPT
20 Feb 2026 15:00h - 16:00h
Need and Impact of Full Stack Sovereign AI by CoRover BharatGPT
Session at a glance
Summary
This discussion between Amish Devagon and Ankush Sabharwal, co-founder of a company developing Bharat GPT, focuses on India’s AI development strategy and its potential impact on jobs and society. Sabharwal emphasizes that AI should ultimately benefit humans and citizens, arguing that technology works best when it becomes invisible and integrated into daily life. When addressing concerns about AI eliminating jobs, he contends that AI will redefine rather than eliminate opportunities, suggesting that automation will enable faster problem-solving and allow businesses to create more solutions for enterprises.
A key challenge Sabharwal identifies is the need to shift from effort-based pricing models in Indian IT services to value-based pricing, as AI enables fewer people to accomplish the same work. The discussion highlights the importance of developing AI models that work in Indian languages, noting that only 10% of Indians speak English while the majority communicate in regional languages. Sabharwal presents Bharat GPT as a collective national asset built from data contributed by all Indians across different languages.
The conversation explores the concept of sovereign AI, which Sabharwal views as crucial for India’s independence from foreign technology dependence. He argues that India has natural advantages in AI development due to its large population generating vast amounts of data and Indians’ aspirational nature driving technology adoption. Sabharwal praises the Indian government’s AI policies, particularly highlighting free GPU access and funding for model development. He envisions India becoming a global hub for AI solutions and believes the country is well-positioned to lead in practical AI applications that solve real-world problems.
Keypoints
Major Discussion Points:
– AI’s Impact on Employment and Business Models: Discussion of how AI will transform rather than eliminate jobs, with emphasis on shifting from effort-based pricing (per hour/day) to value-based pricing models in IT services, and the need for businesses to adapt their approaches.
– Indian Language AI and Digital Inclusion: Focus on Bharat GPT’s capability to work in Indian languages rather than just English, addressing the fact that only 10% of Indians speak English, and the importance of making AI accessible to the broader Indian population.
– Sovereign AI and India’s Self-Reliance: Extensive discussion about India’s need for technological independence through sovereign AI, leveraging India’s massive data generation from its 1.4-1.5 billion population, and reducing dependence on foreign AI systems.
– India’s AI Infrastructure and Government Policy: Coverage of India’s AI development strategy, including government provision of free GPUs, funding for AI models, energy infrastructure needs, and the overall policy framework supporting AI innovation.
– India’s Position in Global AI Leadership: Discussion of India’s potential to become a global AI hub, the success of the AI Summit in Delhi, and India’s competitive advantages in talent, data, and market adoption.
Overall Purpose:
The discussion aimed to explore India’s AI landscape, strategy, and future potential, with particular focus on how Indian companies like Bharat GPT are contributing to the country’s technological sovereignty and addressing uniquely Indian challenges through AI solutions.
Overall Tone:
The conversation maintained an optimistic and patriotic tone throughout, with both participants expressing strong confidence in India’s AI capabilities and future. The tone was collaborative and supportive, with the interviewer occasionally pushing for more critical perspectives, though the interviewee remained consistently positive about government policies and India’s prospects. The discussion ended on a particularly upbeat note with a rapid-fire round that reinforced the optimistic outlook.
Speakers
– Amish Devagon: Role/Title not explicitly mentioned, appears to be an interviewer or journalist conducting the discussion
– Ankush Sabharwal: Co-founder of a company working on AI technology, specifically mentioned as co-founder along with Manav Gandotra, involved in developing Bharat GPT (an AI model that works in Indian languages)
Additional speakers:
– Manav Gandotra: Mentioned as co-founder of Ankush Sabharwal’s company, but did not directly participate in the recorded discussion
Full session report
This interview between journalist Amish Devagon and Ankush Sabharwal, who is involved with Bharat GPT development, took place at an AI Summit in Delhi and explores India’s artificial intelligence development, business transformation, and future prospects. The discussion covers practical challenges and opportunities as India positions itself in the global AI landscape.
Note: Some portions of this interview contain repetitive or unclear transcription that affects the completeness of certain responses.
AI’s Impact on Employment and Business Transformation
Sabharwal addresses concerns about AI-driven job displacement, arguing that AI will redefine rather than eliminate opportunities. His central premise is that AI enables faster problem-solving, which should lead to creating more solutions and consequently more opportunities for human contribution. He emphasizes that technology should ultimately benefit humans and citizens.
The conversation focuses significantly on the transformation required in India’s IT services sector. Sabharwal identifies a critical challenge: if AI enables two people to accomplish work that previously required 100, traditional hourly or daily rate pricing models become unsustainable. He advocates for a shift toward value-based pricing, where companies charge based on outcomes delivered rather than time invested. This approach would allow businesses to maintain profitability while providing enhanced value to clients, leveraging AI’s efficiency gains.
Indian Language AI and Accessibility
A key theme is the importance of developing AI systems that function in Indian languages rather than exclusively in English. Sabharwal provides rough estimates that only 10% of India’s population speaks English, while approximately 40-45% understand Hindi, highlighting the potential exclusion of vast population segments from English-centric AI systems.
He gives practical examples of real-time multilingual capabilities, such as the Prime Minister’s speeches being simultaneously translated into Tamil, Bengali, and other regional languages. Sabharwal positions Bharat GPT as belonging to all of India, built from collective contributions across the country’s linguistic diversity, framing it as a shared national resource rather than a corporate product.
Sovereign AI and Data Advantages
The discussion explores sovereign AI as central to India’s technological strategy. Sabharwal argues that India has natural advantages in developing independent AI capabilities, primarily due to data generation from its large population of 1.4-1.5 billion people. He positions data as the fundamental raw material for AI development.
Rather than viewing sovereign AI defensively, Sabharwal frames it as an opportunity for India to provide sovereign AI solutions to other countries, transforming India from a consumer of foreign AI technology into a potential global provider. He notes that Indians generate vast amounts of data through daily digital activities, which could provide valuable insights when processed through sovereign AI systems.
Government Support and Policy Framework
Sabharwal expresses strong appreciation for government AI initiatives, particularly highlighting the provision of free GPUs to developers and funding for AI model development. He characterizes the government’s approach as forward-thinking and proactive. When pressed by Devagon for critical feedback, Sabharwal initially offers only praise, leading to an exchange where the interviewer explicitly requests more critical analysis.
The conversation addresses infrastructure requirements, with Sabharwal noting the energy demands of AI systems – contrasting the 20 watts required by the human brain with the 1000 watts needed by GPU-based AI models. He also mentions the need for AI skilling initiatives across various sectors and suggests the government should “fund them who use our applications.”
When asked about establishing an AI Ministry, Sabharwal indicates this isn’t necessary, suggesting existing support mechanisms are adequate.
India’s Global AI Positioning
Both participants express confidence in India’s potential for global AI leadership. Sabharwal suggests ambitious timelines, indicating India could become a global AI hub relatively quickly. He references meeting the Prime Minister at “JIPA” and notes the presence of AI ministers from the UK, Canada, and France at the Delhi summit as evidence of India’s growing international prominence in AI discussions.
Sabharwal argues that India’s focus on solving real-world problems through AI applications, rather than merely developing platforms, will create sustainable competitive advantages globally. To critics, his advice is direct: “start making yourself a fool.”
Rapid-Fire Insights
The interview concludes with quick responses from Sabharwal:
– He believes founders and entrepreneurs will remain central to AI evolution because “AI was created by human intelligence, so human intelligence will control”
– Predicts Bangalore will become India’s AI capital
– Claims India already has the most AI users globally
– Expresses confidence in job security for those adapting to AI
Conclusion
This interview reveals an optimistic vision for India’s AI development that emphasizes technological sovereignty, multilingual accessibility, and practical problem-solving. The discussion demonstrates confidence in government support and India’s natural advantages in AI development, particularly its large population and data generation capacity.
Sabharwal’s perspective presents AI as a transformative tool that can enhance human capabilities and solve social challenges while positioning India as a global leader. The emphasis on inclusive, multilingual AI development and value-based business models reflects an approach that prioritizes broad accessibility and real-world applications over purely technological advancement.
Session transcript
Absolutely, whatever we do, it should be for humans only. If we are doing something for businesses, ultimately these businesses are helping humans, which means we are benefiting citizens. And safety, inclusivity should remain and I think technology should be the way it should be, which is not visible. And we are saying AI again and again, we are not afraid of it. Some people say, or the job will go away or what is the risk? So we are using AI knowingly or unknowingly. If you look at any app, it has AI intervention. Now if there is any product at home, TV, fridge, eventually we are bringing AI there too. So technology is for everyone. and Manav is our co -founder.
Manav Gandotra, it’s a big coincidence for us.
Yes, Manav is your co -founder. But there is a big question that I want to ask all of this on behalf of the Indians. AI will not eliminate opportunity. It will redefine opportunity because there is a question that is being raised again and again. AI will come, jobs will go, mass exodus will happen in corporates. What do you think about it?
Sir, everyone is saying that AI is automating work. That’s why we think that jobs will go. What does it mean that if it is automating, our problems that we are solving with technology are getting solved quickly. So why don’t we think that we will solve problems with AI quickly? We will solve more problems. If they provide solutions for businesses, then those solutions will be made quickly, will be good, and those businesses will make more solutions so that they can give more benefit to enterprises. So, I think that the work will be done and maybe the business model will have to be changed. I think that the effort -based IT services in India…
What do you mean by the business model will have to be changed?
I think that the maximum IT services in India are rated per mandate, per hour. Rates are there, right? $20 per hour, $40 per hour. So, if I do the same work, if earlier 100 people used to work, now maybe 10 people will do it, even 2 people will do it, right? So, that business model… I am giving the same value. If my rate is fixed per mandate, then accordingly I will get less money as a company. But I am giving the same value for my client. Right? So, if you have to discuss this with them… I will provide you more value. Don’t give me per hour or per day basis pricing. We will do value based pricing.
So what will happen with that? Our clients will get more solutions, they will get more benefits, and eventually we will be able to make more money.
An interesting fact is that most of the AI models in the world work in English. But your AI model works in Indian languages. This is very very important for India. Because we have a lot of languages here. We have two languages in Bihar, three languages in UP, two languages in Tamil Nadu. How do you see this? Do you think this is very important to grow the Indian AI story? Indian languages are Indian languages. What’s your view?
Absolutely. In India, I think only 10 % of people know English. Or speak it. The other 90 % even Hindi, around 40 -45%. I think only 80 % know it. Hindi, India has more knowledge than India. India has more knowledge than India. India has more knowledge than India. India has more knowledge than India. India has more knowledge than India. India has more knowledge than India. India has more knowledge than India. India has more knowledge than India. India has more knowledge than India. India has more knowledge than India. India has more knowledge than India. India has more knowledge than India. India has more knowledge than India. India has more knowledge than India. India has more knowledge than India.
India has more knowledge than India.
very great very very Now you see the person of Tamil Nadu the Prime Minister is speaking in Hindi, the person of Tamil Nadu wants to hear the person of Assam wants to hear, he is coming in their language the person of Gujarat wants to hear, he is coming in their language so this is a kind of convenience
Absolutely, when we met the Honorable Prime Minister in JIPA I was speaking in Hindi and when he was very delicate, what I was saying he was coming in Tamil and Bengali at the same time so we if we want to give benefit to everyone of technology and that is becoming a collective product I think that Bharat GPT is not ours, it belongs to the whole of India everyone has contributed by giving their language and voice so we are helping them back
Do you think AI will enable people to do their daily work and will it add convenience in their lives we all know that mobile when mobile phone came it was a communication machine today it is a convenience with all the apps and everything so this ai will also be a convenience in the next five years six years
i think it will happen in five six years i think it will happen from today if so many companies have come here i think you are all seeing which is better technology which is better platform i think you should be next session just about use cases now we have technology and talent so people are also ready to use ai products so from today i think people will have to start making daily use apps daily use products so that everyone will benefit
sovereign ai means we are not dependent on any other country prime minister modi was also talking about this again and again in such a situation sovereign ai is very important for us to understand that we have to make sure that we are not dependent on any other country prime minister modi was also talking about this again and again in such a situation sovereign about this again and again in such a situation sovereign ai means we are not dependent on any other country prime minister modi was also talking about this again and again in such a situation about this again and again in such a situation sovereign ai means we are not dependent on any other ai means we are not dependent on any other country prime minister modi was also talking about this again and again in such a situation sovereign ai means we are not dependent on any other country prime minister modi was also talking about this again and again in such a situation Why did you make this issue so big?
Everyone is talking about sovereign AI. We
Absolutely. And let me tell you the truth. We would be better without investing that much money.
Okay. Why do you think so? Why do you think so?
What raw material is needed for AI?
Data.
Yes. Data. And right now, we are producing data. Even audiences are producing data. You produce content in your channel. Not just you speaking and creating content. The people who are listening, they are also creating content. With the virtue of this beautiful number of people, a population of 1 .4, 1 .5 billion, we are all producing data. But just living life. So, we have this much data. So, will it make a model? It will create a platform. And we Indians are very aspirational. We want to grow fast. We want to use every technology. Now if there are foreign apps, most of the users are in India. So it means if we create a platform app, then it will be used in India too.
So what direction do you see the AI story of India going in? And in the next two years, where do you see it standing? What is your view? Be very very rational.
First of all, I think the whole world, the AI has to be adopted. Let’s be the users of AI. Enough of the platform. Tell the platform that where is this solving real world problem? If we solve the real world problem with AI, in the whole world, I think India will have a huge contribution to create real world AI. I think India will have a huge contribution to create real world applications with AI. I think India will have a huge contribution to create real world applications with AI. The AI applications we make, the products we make, will of course be used in India. I think India will be considered a hub for AI solutions. If someone wants AI solutions all over the world, I think India would be the preferred choice in the next few months.
Right now in Delhi, all the CEO heads of big tech companies are here. Do you think AI Summit has been successful?
Yes, absolutely. When I was coming here, a foreigner was telling me that he has attended many summits in the US and UK. But he has never seen a better summit than this. This is big, big, quite big. Absolutely. We are the leaders of India. We are the leaders of India. So, we meet daily. AI Minister of UK is here. We met him. AI Minister of Canada is here. We met him. AI Minister of France is here. AI Ministries are here. They all are here. So, I think now India is a focal point.
So, there should be an AI Ministry in India too.
I think it should be soon. I think there are ministers, Ashniv Ashton sir. We should add one more role to them. We should add one more role. They already have a lot of roles.
But, in the next 3 -5 years, what are the main targets for India to become the first AI country? What’s your view on this?
I think whatever is there, first, energy. Our brain is very useful. It only runs on 20 watts. But, the GPU doesn’t run on 20 watts. It runs on 1000 watts. So, any AI model, to run this model, we need to have a lot of people. Infra and energy are needed. Honorable Prime Minister’s vision is working well. It is visible but it is working well. In energy, infrastructure, compute, as you saw in the DIA mission how many GPUs are coming. And after that, foundational models have also been launched. Applications are also being launched. So these are 4 -5 things. Talent, I think there should be a sector for AI skilling. I think they are also doing it in the education department or MSME.
So all the other factors that are important for AI I think are being focused in India.
Please answer this question a bit critically. What would you say about the AI policy of the Government of India? What do you think? They are on right track. They are on the right track but they should make this change. What is your take on this? And be critical on this. Your government should give advice. Sir, may I
ask I don’t think there is any country in the world whose government has given its citizens… In India’s context. Yes, first I am saying that no country has given its technologists, innovators, entrepreneurs free GPUs. And on top of that, GPUs were given, then money was given to make models. And opening up doors for us to adopt our application. I think that what we, entrepreneurs and techies, want, the government is already giving. And I think they are thinking ahead. I mean, whatever policy they launch, I think I was thinking this. I haven’t articulated it yet. If I haven’t articulated it yet, if the government hasn’t given a request, they launch it before that. They are ahead.
Indian government is already ahead. Indian government is already ahead. This is a
politically correct answer. I told them to give advice. You are saying they are doing everything right. Okay, I will
give advice. Now stop scolding us. Okay. Okay. You fund them who use our applications. Okay. That’s a
good one. That’s a good one. That’s a very, very good one. If India is successful in making sovereign AI, will India get a lot of benefit in the long term? Absolutely. If
sovereign AI comes to India, we’ll have the control. We’ll get the benefit. But see it as a business model angle. We can provide sovereign AI to other countries as well. And that work has started. We’re making our own sovereign AI for ourselves. We’re making it for others as well. We’re making it for others as well. Okay. We’ve
come to the end of the conversation. So let’s do a rapid fire round. Quickly. A few questions. Which country has the most AI users in the world? India. India.
India?
Which city do you think will be the AI capital? We have IT capital. Which city will be
AI capital? I think
it will be Bangalore. I can be biased. Bangalore. You are saying Bangalore. Okay. Now,
a personal question. Durandhar film or cricket match? Neither. Neither? So, even after AI, which
job will not end? Any job. Any job. One word. Which will not end? Yes. I think it will be founders. Founders. Wow. Wow. Yes. AI. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. So who will control AI in the world after 50 years? I think the fear is that AI will not
control but we will control. I believe that AI was created
by human intelligence. So that’s why human intelligence will control. Well said. After AI
comes,
whose job will be easier? Doctor’s or engineer’s? What do
you think?
The engineer will be biased because
he is making it himself. Yes, he
will be biased because he is making it himself. Last question. What do you want to say about
Bharat GPT? Do you think that the time has come for Bharat GPT? Absolutely. I am saying that it is not ours, it is of the whole country. All the
data in it is of the whole country. All the languages that have contributed to it are
of the whole country. We have not given any money to
anyone to procure data. So it is… Now we are doing it free. If he is in a hugging phase… so all of us can use it freely. What would you like to
say to the critics? Sir, we don’t have time to think about them. We don’t have time. We don’t have time to think about them. You don’t want to waste your time? Yeah. One line, what will be one line? For them? Yes. I am saying that start making yourself a fool. Okay, that’s a good one. A big round of applause. Thank you so much. Thank you so much. You came here
and spoke for yourself. Thank you. Pleasure talking to
you. Thank you so much. Thank you. Amish ji, thank you very much. And thank you for
keeping my words. You actually bombarded him.
Ankush Sabharwal
Speech speed
155 words per minute
Speech length
1645 words
Speech time
633 seconds
AI should serve humanity and be inclusive
Explanation
Ankush stresses that AI must be built for humans, prioritising safety and inclusivity while remaining invisible in everyday life. He notes that AI is already embedded in common devices and applications, making it a pervasive yet unobtrusive tool.
Evidence
“And safety, inclusivity should remain and I think technology should be the way it should be, which is not visible” [3]. “Absolutely, whatever we do, it should be for humans only” [14]. “Now if there is any product at home, TV, fridge, eventually we are bringing AI there too” [13]. “If you look at any app, it has AI intervention” [4].
Major discussion point
AI should serve humanity and be inclusive
Topics
Human rights and the ethical dimensions of the information society | Artificial intelligence | Closing all digital divides
Impact of AI on employment and business models in India
Explanation
Ankush argues that automation will change headcounts but businesses can preserve revenue by moving from hourly pricing to value‑based models, delivering greater client benefits. This shift can mitigate job loss concerns while enhancing profitability.
Evidence
“We will do value based pricing” [28]. “Don’t give me per hour or per day basis pricing” [31]. “So, that business model… I am giving the same value” [33]. “Our clients will get more solutions, they will get more benefits, and eventually we will be able to make more money” [30].
Major discussion point
Impact of AI on employment and business models in India
Topics
The digital economy | Artificial intelligence
Importance of Indian‑language AI models (Bharat GPT)
Explanation
Ankush highlights that only a small fraction of Indians speak English, making regional language models essential for mass adoption. He describes Bharat GPT as a collective national asset that reflects India’s linguistic diversity.
Evidence
“In India, I think only 10 % of people know English” [54]. “Absolutely, when we met the Honorable Prime Minister in JIPA I was speaking in Hindi and when he was very delicate, what I was saying he was coming in Tamil and Bengali at the same time so we if we want to give benefit to everyone of technology and that is becoming a collective product I think that Bharat GPT is not ours, it belongs to the whole of India everyone has contributed by giving their language and voice so we are helping them back” [72].
Major discussion point
Importance of Indian‑language AI models (Bharat GPT)
Topics
Closing all digital divides | Artificial intelligence | Social and economic development
Sovereign AI, data independence, and government policy
Explanation
Ankush points out that data is the raw material for AI and that India’s massive data generation enables a sovereign AI ecosystem. He notes government initiatives such as free GPUs and funding that place India ahead of many nations.
Evidence
“What raw material is needed for AI?” [9]. “sovereign AI comes to India, we’ll have the control” [56]. “Indian government is already ahead” [62]. “We’re making our own sovereign AI for ourselves” [64].
Major discussion point
Sovereign AI, data independence, and government policy
Topics
Data governance | Artificial intelligence | The enabling environment for digital development
India’s emerging role as an AI hub and future targets
Explanation
Ankush envisions India becoming a global AI hub, citing the presence of international AI ministers and the country’s readiness in infrastructure, talent, and policy. He stresses the need for energy‑efficient compute and clear road‑maps to cement this position.
Evidence
“I think India will be considered a hub for AI solutions” [22]. “AI Minister of UK is here” [66]. “AI Minister of Canada is here” [67]. “AI Minister of France is here” [69]. “Infra and energy are needed” [71]. “If someone wants AI solutions all over the world, I think India would be the preferred choice in the next few months” [60].
Major discussion point
India’s emerging role as an AI hub and future targets
Topics
Artificial intelligence | The enabling environment for digital development | Information and communication technologies for development
Outlook and rapid‑fire predictions for AI in India
Explanation
Ankush predicts that within five to six years AI will become a daily‑use technology, spawning new consumer apps while founders remain essential. He also reiterates that Bharat GPT is a national resource belonging to all Indians.
Evidence
“i think it will happen in five six years i think it will happen from today if so many companies have come here i think you are all seeing which is better technology which is better platform i think you should be next session just about use cases now we have technology and talent so people are also ready to use ai products so from today i think people will have to start making daily use apps daily use products so that everyone will benefit” [7]. “Absolutely, when we met the Honorable Prime Minister in JIPA I was speaking in Hindi and when he was very delicate, what I was saying he was coming in Tamil and Bengali at the same time so we if we want to give benefit to everyone of technology and that is becoming a collective product I think that Bharat GPT is not ours, it belongs to the whole of India everyone has contributed by giving their language and voice so we are helping them back” [72].
Major discussion point
Outlook and rapid‑fire predictions for AI in India
Topics
Artificial intelligence | The digital economy | Closing all digital divides
Amish Devagon
Speech speed
167 words per minute
Speech length
905 words
Speech time
323 seconds
AI should serve humanity and be inclusive
Explanation
Amish emphasizes that AI will not eliminate opportunities but will reshape them, warning of a potential mass job exodus in corporates. He calls for addressing these concerns while ensuring AI benefits everyone.
Evidence
“AI will come, jobs will go, mass exodus will happen in corporates” [16]. “AI will not eliminate opportunity” [17]. “It will redefine opportunity because there is a question that is being raised again and again” [19].
Major discussion point
AI should serve humanity and be inclusive
Topics
Human rights and the ethical dimensions of the information society | Artificial intelligence | The digital economy
Impact of AI on employment and business models in India
Explanation
Amish notes that AI‑driven automation may cause corporate job turnover and stresses the need to rethink business models. He questions how pricing and service delivery must evolve in response to automation.
Evidence
“AI will come, jobs will go, mass exodus will happen in corporates” [16]. “What do you mean by the business model will have to be changed?” [39]. “That’s why we think that jobs will go” [21].
Major discussion point
Impact of AI on employment and business models in India
Topics
The digital economy | Artificial intelligence
Importance of Indian‑language AI models (Bharat GPT)
Explanation
Amish points out that most global AI models operate in English, making Indian‑language capability crucial for the country’s AI narrative. He stresses that multilingual support is vital given India’s linguistic diversity.
Evidence
“An interesting fact is that most of the AI models in the world work in English” [41]. “But your AI model works in Indian languages” [46]. “Do you think this is very important to grow the Indian AI story?” [47]. “Indian languages are Indian languages” [48]. “Because we have a lot of languages here” [57]. “We have two languages in Bihar, three languages in UP, two languages in Tamil Nadu” [58].
Major discussion point
Importance of Indian‑language AI models (Bharat GPT)
Topics
Closing all digital divides | Artificial intelligence | Social and economic development
Sovereign AI, data independence, and government policy
Explanation
Amish stresses that sovereign AI is essential to avoid dependence on foreign platforms and calls for stronger government policy and support. He questions the current AI policy and urges the government to provide clearer guidance.
Evidence
“Everyone is talking about sovereign AI” [8]. “If India is successful in making sovereign AI, will India get a lot of benefit in the long term?” [51]. “sovereign ai means we are not dependent on any other country” [63]. “What would you say about the AI policy of the Government of India?” [50]. “Your government should give advice” [65].
Major discussion point
Sovereign AI, data independence, and government policy
Topics
Data governance | Artificial intelligence | The enabling environment for digital development
India’s emerging role as an AI hub and future targets
Explanation
Amish highlights the AI Summit’s success and asks about concrete targets for India to become a leading AI nation. He predicts Bangalore will become the AI capital, underscoring the city’s growing ecosystem.
Evidence
“Do you think AI Summit has been successful?” [68]. “But, in the next 3 -5 years, what are the main targets for India to become the first AI country?” [70]. “it will be Bangalore” [77]. “Which city do you think will be the AI capital?” [78].
Major discussion point
India’s emerging role as an AI hub and future targets
Topics
Artificial intelligence | The enabling environment for digital development | Information and communication technologies for development
Outlook and rapid‑fire predictions for AI in India
Explanation
Amish envisions AI becoming a convenience akin to mobile phones within five to six years, driving new consumer applications. He believes founders will remain vital despite AI advances.
Evidence
“Do you think AI will enable people to do their daily work and will it add convenience in their lives we all know that mobile when mobile phone came it was a communication machine today it is a convenience with all the apps and everything so this ai will also be a convenience in the next five years six years” [5]. “it will be Bangalore” [77].
Major discussion point
Outlook and rapid‑fire predictions for AI in India
Topics
Artificial intelligence | The digital economy | Closing all digital divides
Agreements
Agreement points
Indian language AI is crucial for India’s diverse population
Speakers
– Ankush Sabharwal
– Amish Devagon
Arguments
Only 10% of Indians speak English, making local language AI essential for reaching 90% of the population
Most global AI models work in English, but Indian language AI is crucial for India’s diverse linguistic landscape
Summary
Both speakers agree that multilingual AI systems are essential for India given that only 10% of the population speaks English and the country has significant linguistic diversity across different states
Topics
Closing all digital divides | Artificial intelligence
AI will provide convenience and enable daily work efficiency
Speakers
– Ankush Sabharwal
– Amish Devagon
Arguments
AI will redefine rather than eliminate opportunities, allowing faster problem-solving and more solutions for businesses
AI language translation enables real-time communication across different Indian languages, as demonstrated with the Prime Minister’s speeches
Summary
Both speakers view AI as a tool that will enhance convenience and efficiency in daily life and work, similar to how mobile phones evolved from communication devices to comprehensive convenience platforms
Topics
Artificial intelligence | The digital economy
Sovereign AI is strategically important for India
Speakers
– Ankush Sabharwal
– Amish Devagon
Arguments
India has advantages in creating sovereign AI due to its massive data generation from 1.4-1.5 billion population
Sovereign AI is important to ensure India doesn’t depend on other countries for AI technology
Summary
Both speakers emphasize the strategic importance of developing indigenous AI capabilities to ensure technological independence and leverage India’s natural advantages
Topics
Artificial intelligence | The enabling environment for digital development
Bharat GPT represents a national AI asset
Speakers
– Ankush Sabharwal
– Amish Devagon
Arguments
Bharat GPT belongs to the entire country as it uses data and languages contributed by all Indians
The time has come for Bharat GPT to serve India’s AI needs
Summary
Both speakers view Bharat GPT as a collective national resource that belongs to all Indians and is ready to serve the country’s AI requirements
Topics
Artificial intelligence | Data governance
India has potential to become a global AI leader
Speakers
– Ankush Sabharwal
– Amish Devagon
Arguments
India has potential to become the global hub for AI solutions within the next few months
India could become the first AI country in 3-5 years with proper focus on energy, infrastructure, and talent development
Summary
Both speakers express confidence in India’s potential to achieve global AI leadership, with Sabharwal focusing on near-term solutions hub status and Devagon on medium-term comprehensive AI leadership
Topics
Artificial intelligence | The digital economy
Similar viewpoints
While Devagon raises concerns about job displacement, both speakers ultimately agree that AI will transform rather than simply eliminate employment opportunities, requiring adaptation rather than causing mass unemployment
Speakers
– Ankush Sabharwal
– Amish Devagon
Arguments
AI will redefine rather than eliminate opportunities, allowing faster problem-solving and more solutions for businesses
AI automation raises concerns about mass job losses in corporates
Topics
The digital economy | Artificial intelligence
Both speakers support strong government involvement in AI development, with Sabharwal praising current efforts and Devagon suggesting institutional strengthening through dedicated AI ministry
Speakers
– Ankush Sabharwal
– Amish Devagon
Arguments
The Indian government’s AI policy and support mechanisms are effective and forward-thinking
India needs dedicated AI ministry similar to other countries
Topics
The enabling environment for digital development | Artificial intelligence
Unexpected consensus
Government AI policy effectiveness
Speakers
– Ankush Sabharwal
– Amish Devagon
Arguments
The Indian government’s AI policy and support mechanisms are effective and forward-thinking
The government should also fund organizations that use AI applications, not just those who create them
Explanation
Despite Devagon’s role as an interviewer pressing for critical assessment, there was unexpected consensus on the government’s effectiveness. Even when pushed to be critical, Sabharwal’s only suggestion was to extend funding to AI users, indicating strong satisfaction with current policies
Topics
The enabling environment for digital development | Financial mechanisms | Artificial intelligence
Rapid timeline for AI adoption and implementation
Speakers
– Ankush Sabharwal
– Amish Devagon
Arguments
India should focus on creating real-world AI applications and solutions rather than just platforms
India has potential to become the global hub for AI solutions within the next few months
Explanation
Both speakers show unexpected consensus on very aggressive timelines for AI implementation and India’s global positioning, with Sabharwal suggesting India could become a global AI hub within months rather than years
Topics
Artificial intelligence | The digital economy
Overall assessment
Summary
The discussion shows remarkably high consensus between the interviewer and interviewee across all major AI-related topics, including the importance of multilingual AI, sovereign AI development, government policy effectiveness, and India’s potential for global AI leadership
Consensus level
Very high consensus level with minimal disagreement. This strong alignment suggests broad stakeholder agreement on India’s AI strategy and priorities, which could facilitate rapid policy implementation and coordinated national AI development efforts. The consensus spans technical, policy, and strategic dimensions of AI development.
Differences
Different viewpoints
Government policy criticism and transparency
Speakers
– Amish Devagon
– Ankush Sabharwal
Arguments
The Indian government’s AI policy and support mechanisms are effective and forward-thinking
Request for critical assessment of government AI policy
Summary
Devagon repeatedly pressed Sabharwal to provide critical feedback on government AI policy, calling his initial response ‘politically correct’ and asking him to ‘give advice’ and ‘be critical.’ Sabharwal initially provided only praise for government initiatives, showing reluctance to offer substantive criticism until pressed multiple times.
Topics
The enabling environment for digital development | Artificial intelligence
Unexpected differences
Interviewer’s persistent challenge to provide government criticism
Speakers
– Amish Devagon
– Ankush Sabharwal
Arguments
Request for critical assessment of government AI policy
The Indian government’s AI policy and support mechanisms are effective and forward-thinking
Explanation
It was unexpected that the interviewer would so persistently challenge the interviewee to criticize the government, even calling his response ‘politically correct’ and demanding he ‘be critical.’ This created an unusual dynamic where the interviewer was pushing for negative commentary rather than accepting the positive assessment, which is uncommon in typical interview formats.
Topics
The enabling environment for digital development | Artificial intelligence
Overall assessment
Summary
The discussion showed minimal direct disagreement, with most tension arising from the interviewer’s attempts to elicit critical commentary about government policy and a different framing of AI’s employment impact
Disagreement level
Low level of substantive disagreement. The format was primarily interview-based rather than debate-oriented, with disagreements mainly around communication style and framing rather than fundamental policy positions. The main implication is that there appears to be broad consensus on India’s AI development direction, with differences mainly in how optimistically or critically to assess current progress and government support.
Partial agreements
Partial agreements
Both speakers acknowledge that AI will significantly impact employment, but they approach it differently. Devagon raises concerns about job losses and mass exodus from corporates, while Sabharwal reframes this as opportunity redefinition rather than elimination. They agree AI will change the employment landscape but disagree on whether this should be viewed as primarily concerning or optimistic.
Speakers
– Amish Devagon
– Ankush Sabharwal
Arguments
AI automation raises concerns about mass job losses in corporates
AI will redefine rather than eliminate opportunities, allowing faster problem-solving and more solutions for businesses
Topics
The digital economy | Artificial intelligence
Both speakers agree on the importance of strong government involvement in AI development. Devagon suggests India needs a dedicated AI ministry like other countries, while Sabharwal believes current government support is already adequate and forward-thinking. They agree on the goal of strong institutional support but disagree on whether current structures are sufficient.
Speakers
– Amish Devagon
– Ankush Sabharwal
Arguments
India needs dedicated AI ministry similar to other countries
The Indian government’s AI policy and support mechanisms are effective and forward-thinking
Topics
The enabling environment for digital development | Artificial intelligence
Similar viewpoints
While Devagon raises concerns about job displacement, both speakers ultimately agree that AI will transform rather than simply eliminate employment opportunities, requiring adaptation rather than causing mass unemployment
Speakers
– Ankush Sabharwal
– Amish Devagon
Arguments
AI will redefine rather than eliminate opportunities, allowing faster problem-solving and more solutions for businesses
AI automation raises concerns about mass job losses in corporates
Topics
The digital economy | Artificial intelligence
Both speakers support strong government involvement in AI development, with Sabharwal praising current efforts and Devagon suggesting institutional strengthening through dedicated AI ministry
Speakers
– Ankush Sabharwal
– Amish Devagon
Arguments
The Indian government’s AI policy and support mechanisms are effective and forward-thinking
India needs dedicated AI ministry similar to other countries
Topics
The enabling environment for digital development | Artificial intelligence
Takeaways
Key takeaways
AI will redefine rather than eliminate job opportunities, enabling faster problem-solving and creation of more solutions
Indian IT services must transition from effort-based pricing (per hour/day) to value-based pricing models to adapt to AI efficiency gains
Indian language AI is critical for reaching 90% of India’s population who don’t speak English, making technology truly inclusive
India has significant advantages in developing sovereign AI due to its massive data generation from 1.4-1.5 billion population
India should focus on creating real-world AI applications rather than just platforms to become a global AI solutions hub
The Indian government’s AI policy and support mechanisms are effective and forward-thinking, providing free GPUs and funding for model development
Bharat GPT represents a national asset built with contributions from all Indians through their data and languages
India has potential to become the first AI country within 3-5 years with proper focus on energy, infrastructure, compute, and talent development
Resolutions and action items
People should start making daily use AI apps and products immediately to benefit everyone
Indian companies should adopt value-based pricing models instead of hourly rates when implementing AI solutions
Focus should be placed on AI skilling initiatives in education and MSME sectors
India should continue developing sovereign AI solutions that can also be provided to other countries as a business opportunity
Unresolved issues
Whether India should establish a dedicated AI Ministry (discussed but no concrete decision mentioned)
Specific timeline and mechanisms for transitioning IT services from effort-based to value-based pricing
Detailed implementation strategy for AI skilling across different sectors
How to balance rapid AI adoption with addressing legitimate concerns about job displacement
Suggested compromises
Government should fund both AI creators and organizations that use AI applications, not just developers
Existing ministers could take on additional AI-related roles rather than creating entirely new ministries immediately
Focus on redefining jobs and creating new opportunities rather than dismissing concerns about AI’s impact on employment
Thought provoking comments
I think that the maximum IT services in India are rated per mandate, per hour… So, if I do the same work, if earlier 100 people used to work, now maybe 10 people will do it, even 2 people will do it… Don’t give me per hour or per day basis pricing. We will do value based pricing.
Speaker
Ankush Sabharwal
Reason
This comment provides a concrete, practical solution to the widespread fear about AI eliminating jobs. Instead of dismissing concerns, Sabharwal reframes the entire business model discussion, showing how AI can actually increase profitability while delivering more value to clients.
Impact
This shifted the conversation from abstract fears about job displacement to concrete business strategy discussions. It demonstrated how AI adoption requires fundamental changes in how services are priced and delivered, moving the dialogue toward actionable insights rather than theoretical concerns.
In India, I think only 10% of people know English… India has more knowledge than India has in English. So if we create AI in Indian languages, then we can give benefit to 90% of people.
Speaker
Ankush Sabharwal
Reason
This comment highlights a critical gap in AI accessibility that most global AI discussions overlook. It emphasizes that language barriers create a massive untapped market and democratization opportunity, making AI truly inclusive rather than elite-focused.
Impact
This comment redirected the conversation toward India’s unique competitive advantage and social responsibility in AI development. It elevated the discussion from technical capabilities to social impact and market opportunity, showing how local solutions can have global significance.
What raw material is needed for AI? Data. And right now, we are producing data… With the virtue of this beautiful number of people, a population of 1.4, 1.5 billion, we are all producing data.
Speaker
Ankush Sabharwal
Reason
This insight reframes India’s large population from a perceived burden to a strategic asset in the AI race. It’s a profound shift in perspective that positions India’s demographic dividend as a competitive advantage in data generation and AI development.
Impact
This comment fundamentally changed the framing of the sovereign AI discussion. Instead of focusing on India catching up to other countries, it positioned India as naturally advantaged in the AI race, shifting the tone from defensive to confident and strategic.
You fund them who use our applications… Now stop scolding us.
Speaker
Ankush Sabharwal
Reason
When pressed for critical feedback on government policy, this response reveals a key insight about the AI ecosystem – that government support should extend beyond just building technology to creating demand and adoption incentives. The humor also shows the entrepreneur’s confidence in current government support.
Impact
This moment created a turning point where the interviewer acknowledged getting a ‘politically correct’ answer, leading to a more candid exchange. It also introduced the important concept that successful AI policy requires demand-side interventions, not just supply-side support.
I think it will be founders… AI was created by human intelligence. So that’s why human intelligence will control.
Speaker
Ankush Sabharwal
Reason
This response to questions about job displacement and AI control demonstrates deep confidence in human agency and entrepreneurship. It suggests that the ability to envision, create, and direct remains fundamentally human, even in an AI-dominated future.
Impact
These rapid-fire responses reinforced the overall optimistic and human-centric tone of the discussion. They positioned entrepreneurs and human creativity as the ultimate controllers of AI development, providing a reassuring counternarrative to fears about AI dominance.
Overall assessment
These key comments transformed what could have been a typical AI hype discussion into a nuanced exploration of practical business transformation, social inclusion, and strategic positioning. Sabharwal’s insights consistently reframed challenges as opportunities – job displacement became business model evolution, language diversity became competitive advantage, and large population became data wealth. The discussion evolved from defensive responses about AI threats to confident assertions about India’s natural advantages in the AI economy. The interviewer’s probing questions, particularly around critical assessment of government policy, created moments of authentic exchange that revealed deeper strategic thinking. Overall, these comments shaped a narrative of India not just participating in the global AI race, but potentially leading it through unique advantages in data, languages, and human capital.
Follow-up questions
How can India develop better energy infrastructure and compute resources to support AI models that require significantly more power than human brains?
Speaker
Ankush Sabharwal
Explanation
This is important because AI models require substantial energy (1000 watts vs 20 watts for human brain) and infrastructure investment is crucial for India’s AI ambitions
What specific mechanisms should be implemented for AI skilling across different sectors in India?
Speaker
Ankush Sabharwal
Explanation
This addresses the need for workforce preparation and skill development to support India’s AI transformation across various industries
How can the government fund organizations that use AI applications developed by Indian companies?
Speaker
Ankush Sabharwal
Explanation
This was suggested as advice to the government to support the AI ecosystem by funding adoption rather than just development
What are the specific real-world problems that AI should prioritize solving in the Indian context?
Speaker
Ankush Sabharwal
Explanation
This is important to ensure AI development focuses on practical applications that benefit citizens rather than just technological advancement
How can India effectively provide sovereign AI solutions to other countries as a business model?
Speaker
Ankush Sabharwal
Explanation
This explores the potential for India to become a global provider of sovereign AI solutions, which could be a significant economic opportunity
Should India establish a dedicated AI Ministry to coordinate AI initiatives?
Speaker
Amish Devagon
Explanation
This addresses governance and coordination needs for India’s AI strategy, given that other countries have dedicated AI ministers
Disclaimer: This is not an official session record. DiploAI generates these resources from audiovisual recordings, and they are presented as-is, including potential errors. Due to logistical challenges, such as discrepancies in audio/video or transcripts, names may be misspelled. We strive for accuracy to the best of our ability.
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