Artificial Intelligence (AI) is transforming education across the Global South, particularly in rural regions, with India emerging as a leader. With a population of 1. 4 billion and 22 official languages, India is prioritizing the development of AI systems to cater to its social and developmental needs. Both the public and private sectors are actively collaborating to build an AI-driven future. **Government AI Initiatives** The Indian government is fostering a robust AI ecosystem by integrating resources from higher education, research, and industry. The National AI Skilling Framework aims to introduce AI courses in schools starting in 6th grade to prepare over 1 million data science professionals annually. Institutions like Future Skills Prime and the Center of Development for Advanced Computing (CDAC) are creating various AI educational programs. Unlike Europe, which has strict regulations, India is establishing flexible guidelines for ethical AI use, guided by the National Strategy for AI developed by NITI Aayog, targeting sectors like healthcare, agriculture, education, and smart city infrastructure. **Indian AI EdTech and Startups** With its strong IT background, India's EdTech and startup sector is rapidly advancing AI systems in collaboration with universities. Reliance Industries is launching the Jio Institute for AI education and supporting startups by offering cloud storage. Other collaborations, such as Univitt Technologies’ partnership with Universal AI University, are also underway. A major computing center operated by Yotta aims to enhance AI capabilities across the nation, while startups like Sarvam AI and Karya focus on multilingual AI models and provide job opportunities in rural areas. **AI-Focused Universities** The growth of new universities in India is notable, particularly those focused on AI.

The Universal AI University, established in 2023, aims to blend AI with various subjects through experiential learning. Mahindra University hosts an AI Center of Excellence equipped with an NVIDIA supercomputer, while the AI4Bharat lab at IIT Chennai develops language models encompassing all 22 official languages. **The Jio Institute and Future-Proof AI Education** The Jio Institute, founded in 2022, stands out with its industry-aligned postgraduate programs designed to prepare leaders in India's AI infrastructure. Dean Shailesh Kumar emphasizes the program's relevance and adaptability, fostering skills that will evolve alongside technology. With a diverse faculty that includes global experts, students engage directly with their instructors in immersive learning experiences. The institute also manages the Centre of AI for All, aimed at leveraging AI for India's development. **AI in Health, Agriculture, and Education** AI is making significant strides in addressing critical challenges in health, agriculture, and education in India. For instance, a cellphone-based AI system aids in the early diagnosis of diabetic retinopathy, potentially benefiting millions. An AI initiative in Telangana, supported by the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, has increased crop yields for farmers while conserving resources. Additionally, AI is enhancing digital teaching skills and personalized tutoring in rural areas. The innovative applications of AI in India set a precedent for other developing nations, offering valuable lessons for improving living standards for the majority of people in the Global South.