Despite concerns over security and societal risks, Indians show strong trust in established companies and regulated institutions, creating opportunities for responsible AI innovation.
India has emerged as the leading country for artificial intelligence (AI) adoption in the Asia Pacific region, with 56% of metro adults actively using generative AI in 2025, according to Forrester Research. The study highlights India’s unique position as both a highly knowledgeable and discerning AI market, combining strong adoption with thoughtful awareness of AI’s impact.
The survey, which covered metro-area adults in India, Australia, and Singapore, examined AI knowledge, trust, and regulatory expectations. India leads globally in AI literacy, with 63% of adults reporting strong understanding of AI concepts, compared to just 18% in Australia and 26% in Singapore. Millennials represent the most knowledgeable group, giving businesses access to a tech-ready workforce.
Interestingly, the research shows a “trust paradox”: 45% of Indians see AI as a potential societal threat, yet 66% of knowledgeable consumers trust AI-generated information. Indian users also show higher confidence in AI tools, such as language translation, compared to other markets.
Trust in institutions is a key factor driving AI adoption. Indians have strong confidence in established brands (58%), big tech firms (58%), and regulated institutions (52%) to manage AI responsibly. At the same time, digital security remains a concern, with most consumers worried about scams, identity theft, and disinformation.
The report concludes that India’s combination of high adoption, strong knowledge, and trust in regulated players makes it a prime market for responsible AI innovation. Companies entering this space must focus on transparency, security, and ethical AI practices to meet consumer expectations and build long-term trust.