Jack Hidary of SandboxAQ Sees India as a Pioneer for AI's New Era of Innovation

India’s AI-Driven Future: Insights from Jack Hidary

In a recent interview with the Times of India during the World Economic Forum, Jack Hidary, the CEO of SandboxAQ, emphasized that we are at a critical juncture where the future hinges on artificial intelligence, coining the phrase "AI or Die." His remarks underlined India's unique position to lead this new era of AI innovation.

India's Economic Landscape

With approximately 80% of its economy anchored in physical sectors such as railways, energy, telecommunications, and infrastructure, India stands on the brink of an AI revolution. These sectors are increasingly integrating AI technology, leading to measurable improvements in efficiency and effectiveness. Hidary pointed out that the sheer scale of India's economy, amplified by its 1.4 billion population, can drive widespread AI adoption.

The AI Impact Summit 2026

India demonstrated its commitment to AI leadership with the AI Impact Summit 2026 held in New Delhi, where representatives from over 100 countries gathered to draft the New Delhi Declaration on Responsible AI. The Indian government has taken significant steps to bolster its AI capabilities, including the addition of 20,000 graphic processing units (GPUs) to the existing fleet supporting the IndiaAI mission, highlighting its ambition to become a global AI hub.

Drug Discovery and Healthcare

The capabilities of AI in healthcare were also a focal point in the discussions. A landmark achievement was the publication of Phase IIa results for rentosertib, the first fully AI-discovered drug, in Nature Medicine. This advancement promises to accelerate drug discovery timelines for critical conditions such as cancer and Alzheimer's disease, which are traditionally lengthy processes spanning over 15 years.

Cybersecurity Challenges

While AI presents immense opportunities, it also introduces new vulnerabilities. Hidary referenced the World Economic Forum's 2026 Global Risks Report, which identified cyber insecurity as a pressing threat. Sectors like banking, telecommunications, and public utilities must prioritize cybersecurity as they integrate more AI solutions into their operations.

The Shift from Consumer to Creator

One of the most significant changes expected with AI's growth is the transition from being an intellectual property (IP) consumer to an IP creator. According to Hidary, India's advantage in AI-driven molecular design could shift the country into a leading role in innovation globally, fostering a vibrant ecosystem for scientific and technological breakthroughs.

Conclusion

Jack Hidary's insights reveal a powerful narrative for India's future in the AI landscape. With its robust economic sectors, proactive government policies, and the potential for groundbreaking scientific advancements, India is well-positioned to navigate and lead in the inevitable AI revolution. As we continue to explore this dynamic interplay between AI technologies and various industries, it is clear that India’s journey towards becoming an AI powerhouse is just beginning.