AI: The next big challenge, says Dr. S. Jaishankar at Kautilya Economic Conclave
AI: The next big challenge, says Dr. S. Jaishankar at Kautilya Economic Conclave
External Affairs Minister Dr. S. Jaishankar highlighted the profound impact of artificial intelligence (AI) during his speech at the Kautilya Economic Conclave on Sunday, October 6. He drew a stark comparison, stating that AI could become as significant and potentially dangerous as nuclear weapons were in the past. This was the concluding day of the three-day event, organized by the Institute of Economic Growth in collaboration with the Finance Ministry.
"AI will be as dangerous for the world as nuclear bombs once were," Jaishankar remarked, emphasizing the need for global preparedness to handle the repercussions of AI advancements.
He also discussed the transformative power of globalisation, predicting it would continue to reshape the global order through changes in demographics and connectivity. He warned that globalisation could be "weaponised" in the next decade, urging caution against its adverse effects, such as job losses and social disruption. Jaishankar noted, "The social and political reaction to globalisation has gained momentum in the last decade."
India's Push for Human-Centric AI Development
In line with this cautionary outlook, Prime Minister Narendra Modi has underscored India's commitment to human-centric AI development. Earlier this year, Modi announced that India is working towards a future shaped by AI that is transparent, fair, secure, accessible, and responsible. He highlighted that India was among the first nations to develop a national strategy for AI.
At the G20 Summit hosted by India last year, Modi emphasized the necessity for international governance in AI. Addressing world leaders at the G7 Outreach Session, he reaffirmed, "In the future too, we will continue to work together with all countries to make AI transparent, fair, secure, accessible, and responsible."
Following this strategic direction, India launched the AI Mission this year, reinforcing its commitment to leading the way in ethical and human-centric AI development.
