Gireendra Kasmalkar, Managing Partner at Pune-based Pentathlon Ventures LLP, says India’s artificial intelligence (AI) growth will not depend on its major metros but on deeper, meaningful innovation across the country. In an interview, Kasmalkar emphasized that true progress in AI comes not from loud announcements or media hype, particularly around generative AI, but from founders who quietly focus on solving real problems.
Kasmalkar highlighted that nurturing these innovators is crucial for India to establish a lasting and impactful AI ecosystem. He believes that supporting thoughtful, long-term projects rather than chasing trends will define the nation’s AI trajectory. “Innovation thrives on depth, not spectacle,” he noted, calling on stakeholders to invest in intent-driven ideas that go beyond superficial achievements.
Experts say India is uniquely positioned to leverage AI in sectors like healthcare, agriculture, and education, where technology can address deep-rooted challenges. Kasmalkar’s perspective urges policymakers, investors, and startups to look past the buzz and build a strong foundation for the future.
In other news, US President Donald Trump hinted at possible tariff increases on Indian imports over India’s continued oil trade with Russia, highlighting the ongoing geopolitical and economic tensions. Meanwhile, Gujarat IAS officer Rajendrakumar Patel was remanded in ED custody for allegedly collecting over ₹10 crore in bribes as “speed money” for land-use approvals.
On health, Dr. Rahul Chawla, neurologist at AIIMS-trained IBS Hospital, explained that somatoform disorder, where psychological stress manifests as physical symptoms, remains underdiagnosed, urging awareness and mental health support for sufferers.
These developments reflect India’s complex landscape of innovation, governance, and health, showing how progress, policy, and wellbeing intersect in 2026.
