India eyes open source, homegrown AI amid access curbs on frontier models

India is championing open-source and homegrown AI models to counter potential access restrictions on advanced frontier technologies. The IT Ministry official highlighted a two-pronged strategy: leveraging capable open-source alternatives and fostering indigenous development to achieve 60-80% of frontier model functionalities. The IndiaAI Mission supports 20 Indian AI models, aiming for tangible economic impact rather than market hype.