AI is Powering Progress—But Can India Power AI Sustainably?

Artificial Intelligence (AI) is revolutionizing India’s infrastructure enhancing planning, design, construction, and maintenance with data-driven precision. From predictive analytics in project forecasting to autonomous equipment and predictive maintenance in operations, AI is enabling faster, safer, and more efficient infrastructure. It’s also reshaping sustainability efforts, optimizing wastewater treatment, enabling smart grids, and driving intelligent traffic and energy systems. Initiatives like PM Gati Shakti benefit from AI’s synergy with IoT and automation, building resilient, future-ready logistics networks. 

However, AI’s growing adoption comes with a significant energy cost. As the World Economic Forum warns, AI systems demand immense power, necessitating a shift from fossil-based energy to scalable, low-carbon solutions. India's challenge now lies in aligning this AI-driven progress with sustainable energy strategies. Without clean energy integration, AI’s potential risks overburdening the nation's already strained power grid—turning a smart revolution into an unsustainable one.