Amid growing concerns about the potential risks and harms of artificial intelligence (AI), India has issued an advisory requiring AI models to obtain government approval before launching.
The advisory, which covers technology firms and demands compliance on issues such as prejudice, discrimination, and selection process integrity, appears to reverse India’s previous hands-off approach to AI regulation.
Why did India U-turn on artificial intelligence?
You may recall that a year ago, India’s IT Ministry refused to regulate the growth of AI, instead describing the sector as vital to India’s strategic interests. It appears that the government has reversed that decision.
The new recommendation first received backlash from industry executives. Many Indian startups and venture capital firms are concerned that such regulation could stifle innovation and competition and cause the country to fall behind in the global AI race.
Google’s Gemini’s response to Modi is triggering
The recommendation is thought to be a reaction to Google’s Gemini artificial intelligence model’s response to a question about whether Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi is a fascist. Gemini responded to a user question that Modi had been accused of implementing policies that some have characterized as fascist.
Penalties may be imposed for non-compliance
India’s Deputy IT Minister Rajeev Chandrasekhar instructed firms to comply with the recommendation and submit a “Measures Taken and Status Report” to the IT Ministry within 15 days. It was stated that criminal sanctions may be imposed on companies that do not comply.
Reflecting India’s growing concerns about the potential risks and harms of AI and its willingness to take a proactive role in managing risks, this regulation is a very important development in the global AI debate.
On the other hand, some experts are skeptical that such regulation could stifle innovation and competition. We will have to take time to assess the implications of the recommendation and see how India will strike a balance for responsible and ethical development and use of AI.
Featured image credit: Barış Selman / DALL-E 3
