In a revealing interview, Indian Army Chief General Upendra Dwivedi discussed the military’s ongoing efforts to incorporate artificial intelligence (AI) into its operations. While acknowledging that full AI integration is still years away, General Dwivedi outlined the army’s methodical approach to this transformative technology.
The Chief talked about the importance of data as the foundation for AI development.
“Artificial intelligence is the very mature stage which comes up very later,” he explained. “Firstly we have to have data, then thereafter we should be able to analyze it where we will be able to carry out predictive analysis.”
To build this data infrastructure, the army is working on creating a “single source of truth” across its information systems. However, General Dwivedi noted the challenges in this process: “We have the data at various places but in a gradual manner slowly we will have to integrate that because while integrating that data we should not let loose some information which is more than confidential.”
General Dwivedi explained that the army is investing in human resources to support its AI initiatives, noting that the existing HR needs training in the AI systems being developed. He also mentioned the recent establishment of an AI incubation cell, created in collaboration with industry partners, which is designed to train the next generation of military personnel in AI technologies.
While progress is being made, General Dwivedi was candid about the current state of readiness: “We are not fully prepared towards that, I can say that.” However, he expressed optimism about the future, stating: “I’m sure within three to four years what we are looking at we should be able to combine the data and the AI together.”
As the Indian Army continues its technological evolution, it’s clear that AI will play an increasingly important role in its operations. General Dwivedi’s insights reveal a measured, strategic approach to adopting this complex and powerful technology.
