Feb 27, 2026: India marked a major milestone in inclusive artificial intelligence with the launch of the Casebook on AI and Gender Empowerment at the India AI Impact Summit 2026 on February 17, 2026.
The initiative reflects the Government of India’s commitment to building ethical, inclusive, and gender-responsive AI systems that benefit not just India but the Global South.
A Joint Initiative for Inclusive AI
The casebook has been developed under the IndiaAI Mission by the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) in partnership with UN Women, with support from the Ministry of Women and Child Development (MoWCD).
It brings together 23 real-world AI solutions selected from 233 submissions across more than 50 countries. Each solution demonstrates measurable impact in advancing gender equality and women’s empowerment.
The publication was jointly launched by Shri S. Krishnan, Secretary MeitY; Shri Anil Malik, Secretary MoWCD; and Ms. Christine Arab, Regional Director, UN Women Asia and the Pacific.
Global Recognition at the Summit
The initiative received international recognition when António Guterres, Secretary-General of the United Nations, visited the UN Women stall at the JanAI Expo on February 20, 2026.
During his visit, he interacted with young women from rural communities participating in the WeSTEM project. These young women shared how they are using AI tools to build skills, access education, and explore emerging employment opportunities in STEM fields.
A copy of the casebook was presented to the Secretary-General, reinforcing India’s leadership in shaping responsible global AI governance.
Key Sectors Covered in the Casebook
The 23 selected AI solutions span several critical sectors:
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Healthcare, including menstrual health
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Economic empowerment and financial inclusion
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Digital safety and prevention of technology-facilitated gender-based violence
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Climate resilience and sustainable agriculture
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Access to justice and legal services
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Education and skills development
Each solution was evaluated through a rigorous multi-stage process by an independent committee comprising officials from MeitY, MoWCD, and UN Women.
Selection criteria included real-world deployment, measurable gender impact, scalability, and evidence-based outcomes.
A Knowledge Resource for Policymakers and Innovators
The casebook serves as a comprehensive knowledge resource for:
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Policymakers
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Technology developers
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Researchers
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Civil society organizations
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AI practitioners
It highlights practical models to ensure AI systems are ethical, inclusive, and responsive to the diverse realities of women and girls.
The publication aligns with India’s broader vision of democratic AI diffusion under the IndiaAI Mission and integrates gender-responsive principles across its Seven Working Groups.
Strengthening India’s Role in Global AI Governance
The India AI Impact Summit 2026, held from February 16–20, brought together global leaders, innovators, and policymakers to advance responsible AI.
With the launch of the Casebook on AI and Gender Empowerment, India has positioned itself as a key advocate for inclusive and development-oriented artificial intelligence.
As AI continues to reshape economies and societies, India’s approach demonstrates that technological advancement and gender equity can move forward together.
