Section Article

The New Social Divide of Artificial Intelligence: Inequality in Knowing How to Question Verify and Correct AI among Indian Youth
Author(s): Dr Aayush Kumar

Abstract
The rapid diffusion of generative artificial intelligence is creating a new dimension of digital inequality that extends beyond access to devices connectivity and digital skills. Among Indian youth the ability to effectively question verify challenge and correct artificial intelligence outputs is becoming an increasingly important form of knowledge capability. This paper examines the emergence of an “AI knowledge divide” in which young people with different educational socioeconomic and digital backgrounds may possess unequal capacities to critically interact with artificial intelligence systems. Using a qualitative secondary-data approach the study synthesizes recent scholarship on digital inequality artificial intelligence literacy algorithmic literacy and critical technology use. The analysis suggests that access to artificial intelligence tools alone does not guarantee meaningful or equitable use. Young users with stronger analytical linguistic and digital skills are better positioned to identify inaccurate outputs formulate effective questions and cross-check information while others may accept AI-generated responses as authoritative. The paper argues that the emerging AI divide is increasingly shifting from a question of who can access AI to who can critically control and evaluate AI.