Must protect world against weaponisation of artificial intelligence: PM Narendra Modi at Raise 2020 conference

PM Modi said AI has a big role to play in sectors like agriculture, creating next-generation urban infrastructure and making disaster management Systm

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday stressed on the responsible use of artificial intelligence and protecting the world against weaponisation of AI by non-state actors. Speaking at the Raise 2020 conference, he said AI has a big role to play in sectors like agriculture, creating next-generation urban infrastructure and making disaster management systems stronger.

PM Modi inaugurated the biggest virtual global summit 'Raise 2020’ through video conferencing. He said, "Artificial Intelligence is a tribute to human intelligence power. At every step of history, India has led the world in knowledge and learning."

"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. PM Modi said India has experienced that technology has improved transparency and service delivery. "The teamwork of AI with humans can do wonders for our planet."

"We want India to become a global hub for AI. Many Indians are already working on this. I hope many more do so in the times to come," he said.

The Prime Minister said India has recently adopted the National Education Policy 2020 which focuses on technology-based learning and skilling as a major part of education. E-courses will also be developed in various regional languages and dialects, he said.

A National Educational Technology Forum is being formed to create an e-education unit to boost the digital infrastructure, digital content, and capacity, he said. "We launched the 'Responsible AI for Youth' program this year in April. Under this programme, more than 11,000 students from schools completed the basic course. They are now building their AI projects," he said.

"While we discuss AI, let also have no doubts that human creativity and human emotions continue to be our greatest strength. They are our unique advantage over machines," PM Modi added.

He said, "Raise 2020 is a great effort to encourage discussion on Artificial Intelligence. You all have rightly highlighted aspects relating to technology and human empowerment."

"We are home to the World's largest Unique Identification system-Aadhaar. We also have the world's most innovative digital payment system - UPI. This has enabled access to digital services including financial services like the direct cash transfer to poor," he said.

"Our approach to this is powered by the core principle of teamwork, trust, collaboration, responsibility, and inclusivity. While we discuss AI, let also have no doubts that human creativity and human emotions continue to be our greatest strength. They are our unique advantage over machines," said the PM.

"Can we have a system that gives an analytical report on the aptitude of each child? This would open doors of opportunity for many youngsters. Such human resource mapping will have long-lasting benefits in governance and businesses. 

AI can have a big role in empowering agriculture, healthcare, and education and creating next-generation urban infrastructure while also addressing urban issues like reducing traffic jams, improving sewage system,s and laying our energy grids," he added.

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