OpenAI, the Microsoft-backed parent of ChatGPT, announced plans to set up its first India office in New Delhi later this year, marking a significant step in strengthening its footprint in the country — its second-largest market by user base.
The AI research company has already begun hiring talent for its India operations. Earlier this week, OpenAI also rolled out its lowest-priced monthly plan at $4.60 in India to broaden accessibility.
According to Reuters, Sam Altman, CEO of OpenAI, said:
“Opening our first office and building a local team is an important first step in our commitment to make advanced AI more accessible across the country and to build AI for India, and with India.”
India’s growing importance in AI adoption was echoed by Ashwini Vaishnaw, Union Minister for Electronics and IT, Railways & Information Broadcasting, who stated:
“OpenAI’s decision to establish a presence in India reflects the country’s growing leadership in digital innovation and AI adoption. With strong investments in digital public infrastructure, AI talent, and enterprise-scale solutions, India is uniquely positioned to drive the next wave of AI-led transformation.”
India ranks as one of the top five developer markets globally on OpenAI’s platform and is home to the largest student population using ChatGPT worldwide. Weekly active users of ChatGPT in India have grown over 4x in the past year, underscoring the company’s rising influence in the country’s digital ecosystem.
By: Arushi Agarwal
