India Can Emerge as a Global Leader in Artificial Intelligence: Dr. C.G. Betsurmath
Mysuru, February, 20, 2026: India is adopting artificial intelligence in a unique and impactful manner across science and technology, and has the potential to emerge as a global leader in the AI industry, said Dr. C.G. Betsurmath, Executive Secretary, JSS Mahavidyapeetha.
He was speaking after inaugurating the One-Day National Conference on “Digital Transformation and Sustainable Growth: Redesigning the Financial Ecosystem”, organised by the Postgraduate Department of Commerce in association with the IQAC, at JSS College of Arts, Commerce and Science, Ooty Road, Mysuru.
Dr. Betsurmath noted that the world is witnessing rapid technological advancement across governance, commerce, agriculture, industry, healthcare and education. With the rise of artificial intelligence, the direction of global development is changing and its impact is visible across all sectors. He said India is ahead in adopting AI technologies and highlighted that while digital solutions are helping address emerging challenges faster, cybercrimes are also increasing, especially in India. Despite this, he said India has made notable progress in digital finance and economic transactions, supported by initiatives of both the Central and State governments to make modern technology accessible and user-friendly. He also appreciated educational institutions for taking progressive steps in this direction.
Delivering the keynote address, Prof. K.V. Kiran Kumar, Faculty, Finance and BFSI Department, Ramaiah Institute of Management, said India is experiencing an unprecedented digital transformation, alongside steady growth in per capita income. He attributed this progress to technological advancement, organised economic and commercial activity, consumer demand for innovative products, and rising technological awareness among customers. He added that India is seeing healthy growth in skill development and manufacturing, and the influence of AI in commerce is steadily increasing.
In his concept note, Prof. B.V. Sambashivaiah, Chief Executive of the college, said the global economy is undergoing significant transitions driven by climate change, technological disruption, demographic shifts and geopolitical realignments. Citing the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) progress report, he said nearly 85% of SDG targets are either off track or progressing slowly. He also noted that climate-related natural disasters have increased fivefold over the past fifty years, leading to major economic losses. Emphasising the need for sustainable development, financial security, economic transformation, reformed governance and an integrated global perspective, he said financial services that were once manual, time-consuming and location-dependent are now digital, automated and globally accessible. He added that such conferences promote knowledge exchange, policy dialogue, industry-academia collaboration and research, contributing to stable and effective national growth.
Presiding over the programme, Prof. Morabada Mallikarjuna, Director, College Education Division, JSS Mahavidyapeetha, said technology is rapidly transforming all sectors, including commerce, creating many new opportunities. He stressed the need to respond positively to these changes and described commerce as the backbone of a nation’s economy, influencing culture, governance and politics. While technological advancements bring opportunities, he noted that they also create uncertainties, requiring clarity and responsible engagement. He highlighted the role of ideal producers, efficient distributors and informed consumers in achieving sustainable and socially responsible development.
Dr. M. Prabhu, Principal, welcomed the gathering. The programme was compered by Mr. Dhanush, while Kum. Priyanka and Kum. Meghana delivered the invocation. Dr. N. Dileep, Head, Postgraduate Department of Commerce, proposed a vote of thanks.
