Union Minister for Electronics and IT, Ashwini Vaishnaw, inaugurated the AI Compute Portal in New Delhi, aiming to provide researchers, startups, and government bodies with access to high-performance computing resources, including advanced GPUs for AI applications.
During the launch, Vaishnaw highlighted the government’s initiative to establish 27 AI data labs. He also noted that applications for developing foundational AI models are under review.
Following the approval of the IndiaAI Mission in 2024, the government has allocated ₹10,300 crore over five years to boost AI capabilities. A major component of this mission is a shared computing facility equipped with 18,693 GPUs, positioning it among the largest AI compute infrastructures globally. This capacity is nearly nine times that of the open-source AI model DeepSeek and about two-thirds of the computing power behind ChatGPT.
The initial phase of the rollout has made 10,000 GPUs available, with further expansion planned. This infrastructure is expected to facilitate AI solutions catering to India’s diverse linguistic and cultural needs.
To ensure widespread access, the government has introduced an open GPU marketplace, allowing startups and researchers to utilize high-performance computing resources. Unlike some countries where AI infrastructure is controlled by major corporations, this initiative promotes equitable access.
To strengthen supply chains, the government has partnered with 10 companies to provide GPUs. Additionally, plans are underway to develop an indigenous GPU within the next three to five years, reducing reliance on imported technology.
The Ministry of Electronics and IT has also announced that the AI Compute Portal will offer GPU access at a subsidized rate of £1 per hour, significantly lower than the global rate of £2 to £2.40 per hour.
Alongside these AI advancements, India is also bolstering its semiconductor manufacturing sector, with five semiconductor plants currently under construction. These initiatives are expected to enhance AI development while contributing to India’s electronics industry.
