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AI is in the process of revolutionizing the face of industries and societies around the globe and India is not far behind in this race. According to a NASSCOM and BCG report, the Indian AI/ML solutions market might grow to US$17 billion. The survey further shows more than 5 lakh AI and data science specialists are in the country. Moreover, over 3 million developers worldwide use generative AI systems powered by Indian talent. India is, therefore, a fantastic starting point for AI leadership.
However, the rapid development of AI comes with its challenges as nations worldwide grapple with the ethical, legal, and social implications of AI. The question then does pose itself, can India be a global leader in AI governance?
India has already done a lot of work to become an AI-governance leader. The country released a National Strategy on Artificial Intelligence document, drafted by NITI Aayog. The document talks about ‘AI for all’ with a vision for the economic development and social growth of the nation. The country has come up with a strategy for places like healthcare, agriculture, education, and smart cities where AI can be best applied.
The developing nation has also come up with a strategy called, ‘National Education Policy (NEP) 2020’, for making education systems at all levels equipped with AI curriculum. The NEP will facilitate the formation of a skillful workforce ready to face an AI-driven future.
Recently, the country saw the development of many AI cities and hubs to keep up with the rapid global needs of AI evolution. The announcement of AI City in Hyderabad by the Telangana government inspired by Lucknow, the first AI city in India is one of the prime examples of developing Indian AI hubs.
Thus, with these initiatives, India is marking its place as an active participant in the international AI map.
India is leading the Global Partnership on Artificial intelligence, showing the power held by it on a world map. The 29 members of the GPAI move forward in advancing responsible AI development and deployment. It is a global platform that brings nations together to ensure ethics and governance in AI practices.
The first-ever GPAI summit hosted at the Indian podium gives enough scope to decide the way international discussions go on the governance of AI. This also makes Indian CEOs amongst the most important world players as well as establishing a need for their focus to be on ethical use of AI.
IBM recently disclosed a study where 71% of Indian CEOs believe AI governance to be of great importance to organizational success. In addition, the study advocated collaboration between finance and technology departments for effective AI governance.
This also marks a significant indication of leaders understanding the depth of implications of AI toward their internal operations and society. This emphasis can lead to a positive environment for formulating comprehensive governance frameworks that will balance innovation with ethics.
It is the country's historical legacy along with its diplomatic weight which primarily fuels the ambitions to be the leader in AI governance. The country also boasts a rich history of innovation as well as strategic partnership-building with other nations. For example, at the UN Summit this year in September, India’s role in advancing the agenda of the creation of a safe and inclusive digital environment for all was highlighted and revered.
Although good progress has been made in India in governing AI, there are still a few challenges.
Technological change evolves at a rapid rate, requiring the governance frameworks to constantly learn and adapt. India's richly diverse socio-cultural context calls for approaches tailored to the specific local needs and concerns.
These are challenges India must overcome in order to have a viable foundation for AI. There should be a concerted effort in many key areas. First is the development of a skilled workforce that could responsibly develop and apply AI technologies. This would require a very close trilateral collaboration among academia, industry, and government to create the ecosystem necessary for AI research and development.
There is a need for transparency and accountability on AI in India. A set of clear guidelines and standards on the ethics, privacy, and security of the use of AI must be developed and implemented across all sectors so that adherence is uniformly sustained.
India needs to leverage its diplomatic footing to build international cooperation on AI governance. This will enable it to improve support for establishing and influencing global norms and standards that are closer to Indian values and priorities.
With strategic initiative, diplomatic influence, and commitment to responsible AI practices, India would eventually become one of the guiding nations concerning AI governance. Addressing the challenges and opportunities, India can play a crucial role in ensuring the benefits of AI are realized ethically and equitably. Ultimately, India's leadership could provide a model for other nations to follow in developing governance frameworks that prioritize societal well-being.
