As India prepares for the Union Budget 2026, leaders from the education technology (edtech) and advertising technology (adtech) sectors are urging policymakers to include focused support for artificial intelligence (AI) initiatives that drive growth and innovation. With AI increasingly shaping digital learning and advertising, industry stakeholders are seeking concrete policy measures that go beyond general statements to help these sectors scale and create greater economic value.
Experts from edtech firms highlighted how AI-powered language learning tools saw strong adoption in 2025, especially among learners in regional language markets such as Telugu, Tamil, Marathi and Bengali. Many users leveraged AI to improve their English skills, which in turn is seen as a catalyst for improving job prospects and access to educational opportunities. These leaders are hoping the Budget will include support for digital education infrastructure, high-quality regional content creation, and enhanced connectivity to reach remote and underserved areas.
Alongside edtech, the adtech industry is also staking its claims in the Budget discussion. Executives from digital advertising platforms have underscored the importance of tax policy clarity and simplified fiscal measures that could increase disposable incomes and stimulate consumer spending online. They argue that even modest tax reforms could boost digital consumption, which in turn increases demand for AI-driven advertising solutions that help brands better target customers and measure return on investment.
Both sectors believe that clearer policy direction and sustained investment in AI technologies will be key to strengthening India’s digital economy. With the government finalising Budget priorities, edtech and adtech leaders hope to see practical measures that support skills development, infrastructure growth and innovation, positioning India to tap further into the economic opportunities presented by AI.
