NEW DELHI: Centre of Policy Research and Governance ( CPRG ) organised a seminar titled “AI for Inclusion in India” at the India International Centre in New Delhi on Friday, setting the stage for the upcoming India-AI Impact Summit 2026 . The discussion focused on how artificial intelligence can be used to bridge gaps in equity, accessibility, and empowerment in India’s digital future.
The event brought together experts from government, academia, and civil society. Rajit Punhani, CEO of the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India, said that AI could be a strong accelerator of growth if it is designed to be inclusive. “If India is to grow to the level we aspire by 2047, AI must reach rural classrooms where the digital divide is most visible,” he said.
Dr Rashmi Das, director of Higashi Autism School, pointed out that AI can support diverse learners if supported through public-private partnerships, such as those that create mother tongue materials or strengthen teacher training.
Ms. Noopur Jhunjhunwala, trustee and co-founder of Changeinkk, added that many tools that started as assistive — such as audiobooks — eventually benefitted everyone, and AI should follow the same path.
Prof Bipin Jojo from Tata Institute of Social Sciences emphasised the need for culturally responsive approaches to ensure that AI works for tribal communities and helps protect indigenous knowledge.
CPRG Director Dr. Ramanand said, “Innovation alone cannot carry us forward. AI in India must be designed and governed with inclusion at its core. This dialogue sets the tone for the India-AI Impact Summit 2026.”
The seminar was part of CPRG’s Future of Society initiative, which looks at how new technologies reshape everyday life and policy.
The event brought together experts from government, academia, and civil society. Rajit Punhani, CEO of the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India, said that AI could be a strong accelerator of growth if it is designed to be inclusive. “If India is to grow to the level we aspire by 2047, AI must reach rural classrooms where the digital divide is most visible,” he said.
Dr Rashmi Das, director of Higashi Autism School, pointed out that AI can support diverse learners if supported through public-private partnerships, such as those that create mother tongue materials or strengthen teacher training.
Ms. Noopur Jhunjhunwala, trustee and co-founder of Changeinkk, added that many tools that started as assistive — such as audiobooks — eventually benefitted everyone, and AI should follow the same path.
Prof Bipin Jojo from Tata Institute of Social Sciences emphasised the need for culturally responsive approaches to ensure that AI works for tribal communities and helps protect indigenous knowledge.
CPRG Director Dr. Ramanand said, “Innovation alone cannot carry us forward. AI in India must be designed and governed with inclusion at its core. This dialogue sets the tone for the India-AI Impact Summit 2026.”
The seminar was part of CPRG’s Future of Society initiative, which looks at how new technologies reshape everyday life and policy.
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