Inclusive AI systems should be core to India’s AI journey: Stats secretary Saurabh Garg

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Inclusive data ecosystems will be central to India’s artificial intelligence strategy as the technology moves beyond pilot projects into real-world deployment, Statistics Secretary Saurabh Garg said on February 17.

Garg emphasised that AI development increasingly depends on robust and inclusive data systems, noting that statistical agencies generate vast datasets that can support AI applications.

He added that artificial intelligence is transitioning from experimentation to operational use across public systems, making data governance and accessibility key policy priorities.

Ensuring that access remains inclusive, particularly through tools such as semantic search, will help democratise the benefits of AI rather than restrict them to a small group of users.

Garg stressed on voice-enabled search as a key component which can help in widespread diffusion of technology.

“We need to see how we can mould AI to ensure that access remains inclusive. Semantic search needs to be made more accessible,” he added

According to Garg, the goal should be to use AI to improve access to high-quality information and public resources. While concerns about risks and potential harms remain valid, he argued that people must also recognise the significant benefits AI can bring to governance, data analysis and public service delivery.