Sun Mar 09 16:33:50 UTC 2025: ## India’s AI and Quantum Computing Push: A Reactive but Necessary Response, Says Top Advisor

**New Delhi, March 9, 2025** – India is strategically positioning itself in the rapidly evolving fields of artificial intelligence (AI) and quantum computing, according to Dr. Ajay Sood, Principal Scientific Advisor to the Government of India. While acknowledging a reactive approach to the recent advancements, particularly in AI following the emergence of DeepSeek, Dr. Sood emphasizes the necessity of India developing its own foundational AI models.

In an exclusive interview with The Hindu, Dr. Sood downplayed concerns about DeepSeek’s rapid development, stating that India possesses the resources to compete. He highlighted the ongoing AI Mission, which is investing in significant computing infrastructure – including a planned 18,000 GPU compute facility through private sector partnerships – and the development of foundational Large Language Models (LLMs) tailored to India’s unique demographic and cultural context.

Dr. Sood stressed the importance of India creating its own foundational models, rather than solely relying on adapting existing open-source technologies. He argued that this is crucial for India to avoid remaining solely in a service mode and to drive technological breakthroughs. This independent development, he believes, will translate into economic gains and job creation.

Regarding quantum computing, Dr. Sood lauded Microsoft’s recent success with the Majorana 1 chip, a significant advancement in topological qubit technology. He encouraged continued research in this area within India, noting that while the field is still nascent, the potential for breakthroughs, including the emergence of quantum AI, is immense. Dr. Sood emphasized the importance of sustained research and development, even in the face of uncertainties regarding which quantum computing model will ultimately prevail. He concluded that the world stands on the cusp of a new technological era, driven by advancements in both AI and quantum computing.

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