Renowned lyricist and Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) chairman Prasoon Joshi said artificial intelligence should be seen as an opportunity for India rather than a threat, stressing that the country is uniquely positioned to lead global conversations about the future of technology and its impact on humanity.
CBFC chief Prasoon Joshi is optimistic about the future of AI
Speaking at the India AI Impact Summit 2026 in New Delhi, Joshi highlighted the broader philosophical and cultural dimensions of artificial intelligence, arguing that discussions around AI must go beyond technical innovation and address deeper questions about civilization and human values.
The summit brought together world leaders, technology executives and politicians to discuss the social, economic and ethical implications of AI, reflecting India’s growing ambitions to shape global AI governance.
Speaking at the event, Joshi told news agency PTI, “This is not a challenge but an opportunity for India, mainly because it is a matter of global concern. The current discussions are about artificial intelligence and its impact on the future of human civilization. There is no better place than India to discuss such fundamental topics as the country has a long tradition of deep philosophical thought.”
He added that India’s cultural traditions, rooted in sustainability and collective well-being, could play an important role in shaping how artificial intelligence develops around the world. According to Joshi, Indian civilization has historically absorbed new ideas cautiously, weighing both the benefits and the risks before fully embracing them. Emphasizing an inclusive worldview, he said, “We don’t believe that the world was created only for humans. It is also for trees, birds, etc.”
Joshi also argued that the country needs to move beyond being seen as just a large consumer market for technology. “The time has come for India to be seen not only as a market but also as a hub of ideas, thinkers and innovation,” he said, calling for AI conversations to reach schools, colleges and everyday public discourse so that younger generations can actively shape its direction.
In separate interactions at the summit, Joshi noted that AI differs from earlier technological revolutions because it affects the foundations of thinking, creativity and innovation, making its societal impact far more complex than previous industrial shifts.
What Rana Daggubati said about AI
However, not everyone at the gathering shared the same optimism. Actor and producer Rana Daggubati has expressed concern over the rapid development of artificial intelligence, especially for creative professions. Speaking to ANI about its implications for cinema and the entertainment industry, he warned, “It’s going to replace us all pretty quickly.”
The contrasting views reflected a wider debate unfolding at the summit, where discussions focused on balancing innovation with ethical responsibility, job security and creative ownership. Experts attending the event repeatedly emphasized the need for responsible development, reskilling initiatives and inclusive policies as AI continues to reshape industries worldwide.
India’s hosting of the summit marks a significant moment in global technology diplomacy, where leaders and industry representatives come together to explore how artificial intelligence can lead to inclusive growth while protecting human values – a balance that Joshi believes India is well-positioned to help define.