India, AI governance, and a voice for the Global South

India's evolving stance on global AI governance, initially advocating for the Global South's concerns regarding real-world harms and equity, has shifted towards positioning itself as a 'middle power' aligned with US tech interests (Pax Silica). This move, prioritizing capital and adoption, risks compromising India's strategic autonomy and Global South solidarity, potentially making India a consumer and resource extraction site for American Big Tech. The article suggests India still has an opportunity to lead a multilateral AI governance framework at the UN, championing the Global South's interests, fostering local AI ecosystems, and ensuring equitable benefits and user protection.