India working to become global AI hub: PM Modi

NEW DELHI: Prime Minister Narendra Modi said on Monday, October 5, that the Government of India aims to become a “global hub” for artificial intelligence (AI) through technology-based learning and skilling for workforce and students. This will also help the world in solving long-term issues such as climate change and pollution. Modi said this after inaugurating the Responsible AI for Social Empowerment (RAISE) 2020 Summit and emphasised that AI should be used responsibly and the world must be protected against its weaponisation by non-state actors.

“It remains our collective responsibility to ensure trust in how AI is used. Algorithm transparency is key to establishing this trust. Equally important is accountability. We must protect the world against weaponisation of AI by non-state actors,” he said. He went on to say that e-courses will also be developed in various regional languages and dialects and the government will also tap into natural language processing (NLP)-based technology in order to reskill the youth.

“Technology will have a major role in empowering agriculture, healthcare and education and addressing urban issues like reducing traffic jams, improving sewage infrastructure and make our disaster management systems stronger,” said Modi. The government is also planning to set up a National Educational Technology Forum (NETF) to create an e-education unit to boost digital infrastructure to give hands-on experience to learners. The government also said it launched the ‘Responsible AI for Youth’ programme in April. Under this programme, over 11,000 students from schools completed the basic course and are now building their AI projects.