Over the next year, we aim to reach a million women in AI

Over 15 years ago, Kirthiga Reddy became the first employee and managing director of Facebook India (now Meta).

- KIRTHIGA REDDY, CEO & CO-FOUNDER, VERIX

Later, she became the first female investing partner at the AI-focused $130-billion SoftBank's Vision Fund. Reddy, now the CEO & co-founder of Verix, a global trust-tech platform, is the brain behind a unique platform 'AI Kiran' that aims to put women in AI in India on a global stage, enable connectivity, funding and mentorship.

Ahead of the launch of AI Kiran on Monday, she talks to E Kumar Sharma on the unending possibilities of the new platform. Excerpts:

What has been the inspiration behind this AI Kiran initiative?

India's artificial intelligence (AI) market is poised to reach $17 billion by 2027. To ensure that women are a leading force in shaping and operating transformative technologies, a collaborative approach is required between the government, private sector and civil society organisations. That's why, in collaboration with the office of the principal scientific adviser to the government of India and INK Women, we are launching AI Kiran—a national initiative to recognise, empower, and celebrate women in AI.

Can you share some insights on AI Kiran and the difference it can make?