NEW DELHI: The rising use of generative AI in Indian classrooms and research programmes is stirring concern among educators, as debates grow over how to balance technological assistance with academic integrity. With AI in Indian education becoming increasingly common, the discussion is shifting from “if” to “how” these tools should be used to genuinely support learning.
A recent survey by IIT-Delhi revealed a striking trend — all 427 students surveyed admitted to using generative AI for writing support. Moreover, 62 percent used it for coding, 58 percent for brainstorming ideas, and over half turned to it for exam prep. While these tools are reshaping study habits, they’re also raising serious red flags among teachers and researchers.
Former Christ University dean John J. Kennedy called for a “structured, forward-looking” national framework to guide the responsible use of AI in academic settings. Without such standards, he warns, the integrity of research and creativity in student work may be at risk.
Chakrabarty, a PhD student in Sociology, shared a worrying incident: a student submitted an entire research proposal written by ChatGPT and later used the same version to gain PhD admission — without any revisions or honest engagement. “It’s a very troubling trend,” she told ThePrint, reflecting broader fears over how AI in Indian education could erode authentic scholarship if not handled with care.
Experts agree that while AI can be a powerful academic tool, the lack of clear guidelines or a unified definition of “acceptable use” is leading to a grey area. Institutions across India are grappling with how to encourage innovation without compromising the foundational values of education.
As AI tools continue to evolve, the urgent need now is not just awareness, but well-defined academic policies that ensure AI in Indian education enriches — rather than replaces — critical thinking, research ethics, and creativity.
