Artificial intelligence is reshaping life, work, and the world. For a technology powerhouse like India, AI holds limitless growth opportunities. AI is expected to contribute US$500 billion to the country’s GDP this year alone, according to Sanjaya Mariwala, executive chairman and managing director of OmniActive Health Technologies, and President of IMC Chamber of Commerce and Industry.

With the adoption of AI-powered systems in primary domains, cybersecurity has emerged as a significant challenge. In 2024, the average cost of a data breach globally was US$5 million, 10 per cent more than the previous year.

AI-enabled cyber-attacks are aiming for high-value assets and discovering new weaknesses in multiple sectors. AI also enables deepfakes, disinformation, and similar forms of insidious manipulation. This calls for strong AI-based defence strategies and the need to educate people on cyber hygiene.

“Regulation is also a difficult task in AI. Unlike traditional industries, it cannot be straitjacketed by rigid legal frameworks. It is dynamic and evolving and requires policies that encourage innovation while insisting on accountability. India has taken a step in this direction, with the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) mulling over sectoral guidelines. However, there has to be clarity on AI liability, reduction of bias, and ethical deployment. Getting the balance between regulation and innovation right will be the key to AI’s responsible development in India,” Mariwala added.