With less than two weeks until the G20 Summit in New Delhi, Prime Minister Narendra Modi has sparked a vital discussion by proposing a worldwide framework for the expansion of “ethical” artificial intelligence (AI) tools. This bold move aims to position India as a leader in the ongoing debate surrounding the need for global cooperation in regulating sectors like AI and cryptocurrencies.
Interestingly, this represents a significant shift in India’s stance. Previously, the country hadn’t considered legal interventions for AI regulation, but now it’s moving towards actively developing regulations using a “risk-based, user-harm” approach. This transition is exemplified by a consultation paper introduced by the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) in July. The paper suggests establishing a domestic statutory authority to regulate AI in India through a risk-based framework. It also proposes collaborating with international agencies and other countries to create a global agency for responsible AI use.
It’s highly likely that this proposal for a global regulatory agency overseeing “responsible” or “ethical” AI use will be a significant part of India’s official submission at the upcoming G20 Summit. Concurrently, India is also considering introducing a Digital India Bill that would replace the Information Technology Act of 2000. This new legislation seeks to categorize various online intermediaries, including AI-based platforms, and implement specific regulations for each category.
Recent events paint a clear picture of India’s evolving approach. As of April, the Ministry of Electronics and IT had no plans to regulate the AI sector. However, they recognized the ethical concerns and associated risks of AI while acknowledging its role in boosting the digital and innovation landscape.
The TRAI’s recommendation to establish an international body for responsible AI aligns with viewpoints expressed by individuals like Sam Altman, the founder of OpenAI (the organization behind ChatGPT). Altman has proposed an international regulatory body for AI akin to those overseeing nuclear non-proliferation. In a similar vein, Microsoft, which has a stake in OpenAI, has presented a blueprint for AI governance in India. The document, titled “Governing AI: A Blueprint for India,” outlines safety and security regulations, deployment guidelines, and post-deployment monitoring.
This momentum comes amidst growing regulatory scrutiny of generative AI tools, partly triggered by the impactful launch of ChatGPT. Concerns primarily revolve around privacy, system bias, and potential intellectual property violations. Different regions are adopting varying policy responses. The European Union is proposing a comprehensive AI Act categorizing AI based on use cases, the UK is favoring a light-touch approach to encourage innovation, and the US is engaging in public consultations to define AI regulation guidelines. China has also introduced its own measures to regulate AI.
Tech leaders like Elon Musk and Apple co-founder Steve Wozniak, along with thousands of others, have called for a temporary halt in AI development to implement shared safety protocols. Their concerns emphasize the need for responsible and cooperative development in the AI field.
As we approach the G20 Summit, India’s push for a global framework on ethical AI showcases its commitment to shaping the future of AI in a responsible and forward-thinking manner. This leadership stance not only reflects India’s evolving perspective but also its readiness to collaborate on a global stage to ensure the responsible and beneficial advancement of AI technology.
In the midst of these discussions, it’s heartening to witness technology giants like Microsoft offering their expertise to help shape regulations that foster innovation while safeguarding ethical considerations. The next few weeks are sure to be an exciting period of exchange and dialogue as leaders from around the world converge in New Delhi to chart the course for AI and related technologies on a global scale.
