India is often described as a nation ready for transformation, driven by its youthful population, digital infrastructure, and entrepreneurial spirit. Yet, as Artificial Intelligence (AI) reshapes the global economy, a new and impactful divide is emerging within Indian society.

There is a word we keep using incorrectly. Distracted.

We often claim our phones, social media, and endless feeds distract us. But distraction suggests something accidental, a brief slip in focus. What’s happening to us is neither accidental nor brief. It’s been carefully designed, improved, and spread widely. The better word is trained.

We have been conditioned to act this way.