AI Kiran: Empowering Women Leaders in India's AI Revolution

AI Kiran is a nationwide initiative designed to promote women's leadership in Artificial Intelligence (AI) in India. Co-led by the Office of the Principal Scientific Adviser (PSA) to the Government of India, Verix (a blockchain-based credentialing platform), and INK Women, the program seeks to bridge the gender gap in the AI field, which is expected to grow into a $17 billion industry by 2027.

Background:

Despite a rise in women pursuing STEM education, their participation in AI careers remains limited. According to reports from BCG and LinkedIn:  

- Women occupy only 33% of junior roles in Generative AI.  

- Representation drops to 19% at senior levels.  

- Men outnumber women by 65% at Head/Director levels in GenAI positions.  

This imbalance highlights the critical need for diverse leadership to prevent algorithmic biases and to ensure inclusivity in AI. By 2035, India's AI sector could potentially add $1 trillion to the economy, emphasizing the importance of inclusive leadership in realizing this growth.

Goals and Actions:

AI Kiran aims to:  

- Empower women as innovators and leaders in AI and Machine Learning.  

- Build a supportive ecosystem that fosters their success.  

- Provide financial support, mentorship, and global opportunities to women pursuing AI careers.  

- Highlight the achievements of over 250 women AI leaders across sectors such as education, healthcare, sustainability, and technology.  

Recognition and Collaboration:

The initiative amplifies the contributions of notable women in AI, inspiring future generations of technologists. It promotes a multi-stakeholder collaboration involving government agencies, corporations, and civil society to provide resources and opportunities for women in AI. The initiative is hosted on the Manthan Platform to connect with students, researchers, and professionals.

Looking Ahead:

From April 21 to June 5, AI Kiran will work with partners to develop funding opportunities and ongoing support for women leaders in AI. The program aims to create lasting systemic change, positioning women at the forefront of India's AI landscape.

Vision:

AI Kiran envisions an inclusive future where diverse voices shape AI innovation. By encouraging women to lead and contribute, the initiative fosters compassion, courage, and collective strength in shaping the next generation of AI systems.