AI – The nation is not only adopting the technology at scale but also shaping a unique trust landscape where trust and caution coexist.
Rapid Growth in AI Usage
India has emerged as the leader in artificial intelligence (AI) adoption across the Asia-Pacific region, with 56% of metro adults using generative AI in 2025, according to new research by Forrester. The figure marks a sharp increase from 44% in 2024, placing India ahead of regional peers such as Australia and Singapore, where adoption remains comparatively lower.
High AI Literacy Among Consumers
The study highlights India’s strong AI literacy, with 63% of adults describing themselves as knowledgeable about the technology — one of the highest levels globally. Only 5% of Indians say they lack understanding, the lowest figure worldwide. Among younger generations, especially millennials, this figure rises further, with nearly 69% demonstrating strong comprehension. Analysts suggest this knowledge base is making India’s workforce one of the most tech-ready globally.
Balancing Trust and Caution
Despite widespread adoption, concerns about digital risks remain. The survey shows that 45% of Indians believe AI poses a serious societal threat. In addition, 73% worry about online scams, 67% about identity theft, and 66% about deepfakes and misinformation. This dual perspective reflects a population that is both confident in leveraging AI and cautious about its potential misuse.
Institutional Trust as a Key Factor
One of the standout findings of the report is the trust Indians place in established institutions. About 58% of adults trust heritage companies and big tech players to manage AI risks responsibly, while 52% rely on highly regulated institutions. These figures are significantly higher than those in Australia and Singapore, where private-sector trust rarely crosses 25%.
Market Implications
According to Forrester Principal Analyst Vasupradha Srinivasan, Indian consumers are “early adopters and discerning users” who value transparency, security, and credibility. For businesses, this creates a market where heritage brands and companies with strong regulatory track records are best positioned to succeed.