Google launched new AI initiatives in India, focusing on education, healthcare, and developer support to strengthen the local ecosystem.
BENGALURU
Google has launched a major push to strengthen India’s artificial intelligence landscape. During the Google I/O Connect India 2026 summit held in Bengaluru, the tech giant introduced several new AI-focused programs designed to support local developers, startups, enterprises, and educational institutions.
The company showcased significant growth, noting that its Android ecosystem and Play Store generated an impressive ₹5.3 lakh crore for the Indian economy in 2025. Karnataka Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar praised Google, highlighting its vital role in revolutionizing digital services and internet access across the nation.
Among the standout announcements, Google DeepMind unveiled a free 56-hour AI Research Foundations curriculum. Created in partnership with NASSCOM and the Indian Institute of Science, this training aims to help learners master the development of large language models. Furthermore, Google introduced “ATL Saathi,” a Gemini-powered virtual assistant designed to aid teachers under the Atal Innovation Mission, starting with a pilot program in 100 schools.
In the healthcare sector, Google is collaborating with AIIMS Delhi. Researchers are utilizing the company’s MedGemma open-source models to build specialized tools for public health, which will eventually be shared with the broader developer community. Additionally, Google announced that its Gemini Live assistant now supports 25 Indian languages and dialects, including Sanskrit, Bhojpuri, and Maithili. By focusing on both infrastructure and accessible education, Google aims to provide the essential guardrails and tools needed for Indian innovators to thrive safely in the rapidly advancing global era of artificial intelligence.
