India’s young talent and digital strengths make it an AI powerhouse: Piyush Goyal

India is a compelling case for the world, Union Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal said on June 18 -- highlighting the country's young population, affordable data, growing technological capabilities and vision for inclusive growth as key factors positioning it at the forefront of the global technology revolution.

Speaking on India's role in the age of artificial intelligence (AI) at Viva Tech 2026, Goyal said the country has several inherent strengths that make it uniquely placed to bridge the global technological divide.

He asserted that India adapts technology faster and more efficiently than many other nations and views AI as an enabler of growth rather than a threat.

“India is a compelling case for the world. Our young & talented population, affordable data, growing capabilities & a vision for shared growth, position India at the forefront of technological development,” Goyal mentioned.

The minister emphasised that AI can never replace human intelligence, values, culture and traditions.

Goyal noted that India's demographic advantage remains one of its biggest strengths, with the country's average age being below 30 years.

“We have a youthful population. That's important. Our average age is under 30 years. We are the world's fastest growing large economy. So a lot of economic activities which spurs innovation. We have 1.4 billion people generating demand and that gives us economies of scale,” Goyal stated.

The minister further said India has sufficient power resources to meet the growing requirements of data centres and computing infrastructure.

“We have data at a fraction of the cost it costs in other countries. We have abundant power to meet the needs of data centres, computing capacity and all of that. And we produce the world's largest number of STEM graduates, the techies in science and engineering and technology,” Goyal noted.

Addressing concerns over job losses due to AI, Goyal said technological advancements would create new opportunities and career paths rather than eliminate human relevance.

“Except for the headline, no changes have been made to the story, as it has been sourced from IANS.”