OpenAI, the Microsoft-backed parent company of ChatGPT, has announced plans to open its first India office in New Delhi later this year. The move marks a significant step in strengthening its presence in what has become the company’s second-largest market by user base.
The AI giant has already begun hiring local talent to build a dedicated India team, underlining the country’s growing importance in the global AI ecosystem.
Just earlier this week, OpenAI launched its cheapest subscription plan yet — priced at ₹380 ($4.60) per month — exclusively for Indian users, signaling its intent to broaden accessibility.
Sam Altman on OpenAI’s India Push
In a statement quoted by Reuters, OpenAI CEO Sam Altman highlighted the strategic importance of India:
“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.”
Government Welcomes OpenAI Move
Union Minister for Electronics and Information Technology Ashwini Vaishnaw welcomed the announcement, emphasizing India’s readiness to lead in the AI revolution:
“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: OpenAI’s Fastest-Growing Market
India has emerged as ChatGPT’s second-largest market after the United States, with weekly active users growing more than fourfold over the past year. The country also ranks among the top five developer markets globally on the OpenAI platform and boasts the largest student population using ChatGPT worldwide.
Why This Matters
With the opening of its New Delhi office, OpenAI is expected to:
- Strengthen collaboration with Indian developers and researchers.
- Enhance AI accessibility for businesses, students, and creators.
- Play a key role in India’s rapidly expanding AI-driven digital economy.
As OpenAI deepens its footprint in India, New Delhi is set to become a critical hub for AI innovation and adoption in Asia.
