World Bank's AI report launched in India: adapt AI locally rather than build from scratch

Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw launched the World Bank Group's World Development Report 2026, The Promise of Artificial Intelligence, in New Delhi on 8 October 2026, according to a PIB release. The report's advice to developing countries: adopt and adapt AI first, then advance; adapt tools to local needs instead of spending billions building advanced systems from scratch; and make cost-conscious choices. It says the risk of job disruption is less immediate in developing countries, and that only one of the world's 25 low-income countries has published a national AI strategy. At the launch, Vaishnaw cited sugarcane farmers in Baramati who raised yields by 40% with 30% less water and fertiliser using voice advice on a phone, and a 35% rise in TB detection. MeitY Secretary S Krishnan said the report sets out a sensible approach to regulation: rely on existing laws and voluntary compliance, and revisit regulation as the technology evolves. He also said work is under way on an AI Talent Mission.