In a recent address, Mukesh Ambani, Chairman and Managing Director of Reliance Industries, articulated a compelling vision for India's future in the age of Artificial Intelligence (AI). Speaking on International Human Solidarity Day, Ambani emphasized that India must strive to become a world leader in AI, but stressed the importance of integrating empathy and compassion into the development and adoption of this transformative technology. He believes that by combining intelligence with empathy and prosperity with purpose, India can present a new model of development to the world.
Ambani highlighted the need for a collaborative ecosystem where scientists and entrepreneurs work hand-in-hand to propel India into becoming a deep-tech superpower. He championed the philosophy of achieving more with less, which he attributed to R.A. Mashelkar, emphasizing how this approach can harness technology to improve lives without depleting resources. He cited India's low-cost Mars mission and the transformative impact of Jio's affordable data as examples of this vision in action.
Ambani acknowledged Jio's role in catapulting India into the digital mainstream, laying the foundation for the country's entry into the age of AI. He emphasized that technology must be paired with human feelings to be truly effective. According to Ambani, technology without compassion is just machinery, but when infused with compassion, it becomes a social movement.
Furthermore, Ambani underscored the importance of clean energy in India's growth story. He highlighted Reliance's efforts to solve India's energy challenges using solar energy and storage solutions, with the goal of providing abundant and affordable green energy to India and the world. He expressed confidence that Reliance is on the cusp of solving the challenge of using solar energy to meet India's energy needs in a sustainable and affordable way.
Ambani's vision aligns with Reliance's broader transformation into an innovation-led, deep-tech company. He noted that Reliance has established a Reliance Innovation Council and a new energy council to sharpen its focus on this ambition. In a departure from the models followed in advanced countries, Reliance's efforts are centered around "Gandhian Engineering" – producing more from less using breakthroughs in science to improve the quality of life for Indians.
Ambani's call for India to lead in AI resonates with the country's growing capabilities and ambitions in the technology sector. With a robust digital infrastructure, a large talent pool, and a growing economy, India is well-positioned to become a major player in the AI revolution. By focusing on developing AI with empathy and compassion, India can create a unique model of development that benefits its citizens and contributes to a more inclusive and sustainable world.
