I'm surprised that anyone is surprised by the news that AI is joining *A. They have code-shared for a number of years with LH, SQ, OS, etc. It only makes sense for these airlines to encourage AI to join *A.

In India, Kingfisher is probably the best airline today. Jet is 2nd. But I am still glad to see ANY carrier from the subcontinent join *A. We all know that we are going to avoid using AI for long haul flights. But the real benefit is that they (still) have the largest network of destinations in India and once we get to India using SQ, LH, TG, OS, OZ, etc., it'll be fantastic to be able to use the same mileage ticket to get to tourist destinations like Rajasthan, Kerela, etc! AI might have bad service, but it is a safe airline. So, I definitely welcome this news and can't wait for them to actually join the alliance!

PS: Both 9W and IT are close partners with Skyteam members (mainly NW), but Jet also has a relationship with AA & BA. I'd guess that IT will join Skyteam and 9W will join OW.