- The Finance Ministry bans AI tools like ChatGPT in offices over data security concerns.
- India invests ₹10,372 crore to develop its first indigenous AI model under the IndiaAI Mission.
- The government supports AI innovation with 18,693 GPUs and an open-source model on Indian servers.
The Union Finance Ministry has issued an advisory instructing its employees to refrain from using Artificial Intelligence (AI) tools and applications such as ChatGPT and DeepSeek in office devices and systems. This decision stems from concerns over data confidentiality and the risks these tools pose to sensitive government documents. The advisory, dated January 29, 2025, emphasized that AI tools on official computers could compromise government data security, leading to potential breaches.
The Department of Expenditure, in its communication, outlined that such tools are to be strictly avoided during official work. The move aligns with the government’s broader strategy to ensure data protection and prevent unauthorized access to sensitive information. Employees were advised against installing or using AI-powered applications on any official devices, reinforcing the importance of confidentiality in government operations.
While restricting the use of foreign AI tools, the government has simultaneously ramped up efforts to develop indigenous AI solutions. Electronics and Information Technology Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw announced plans to create India’s first foundational AI model within ten months, tailored to Indian needs and priorities. This initiative is part of the IndiaAI Mission, aimed at building scalable and reliable AI infrastructure that is culturally and contextually relevant to the country. The model, inspired by global AI tools like ChatGPT and DeepSeek, will incorporate Indian languages, datasets, and cultural nuances to better serve local users.
To facilitate this, the government is investing heavily in AI infrastructure. A budget of ₹10,372 crore has been allocated to strengthen the AI ecosystem, including the deployment of 18,693 GPUs to support startups and researchers. These GPUs will be a significant upgrade, as DeepSeek and ChatGPT currently operate on smaller-scale computational frameworks. Vaishnaw emphasized the affordability of this initiative, making cutting-edge technology accessible to startups and researchers.
The government is also hosting an open-source AI model inspired by China’s DeepSeek on Indian servers. This move comes at a time when Chinese companies are increasingly challenging the global AI landscape. As part of the IndiaAI Mission, the focus remains on leveraging AI to address large-scale problems in areas such as healthcare, agriculture, logistics, and weather forecasting.
The initiative reflects India’s vision to harness AI technology for the country’s growth while safeguarding its data integrity. The government’s call for proposals to develop indigenous foundational AI models highlights its commitment to promoting innovation while ensuring data sovereignty. By aligning technological advancements with national priorities, India aims to position itself as a global leader in AI development while mitigating risks associated with external tools.