India must recognise AI as a core national infrastructure as dependence on externally controlled foundational models carries serious strategic consequences. But AI sovereignty does not mean technological isolation. India must remain integrated with global innovation networks while retaining authority over the critical layers of compute, data, models, and governance. Regulatory autonomy must be protected and trade agreements should not restrict access to source code, algorithmic auditing powers, or control over public data resources. The question is straightforward: will India develop AI systems that reflect its own realities or operate within systems designed elsewhere?

Source: The Telegraph March 15, 2026 02:17 UTC