Artificial Intelligence (AI) is garnering attention thanks to its potential in catalyzing the development of India. The Union Minister of Commerce and Industry, during his speech at the 3rd Global Artificial Intelligence Summit & Awards (GAISA), proposed that AI can be instrumental in driving India towards becoming a developed nation by 2047.
Understanding GAISA and AICRA’s Role
GAISA, organized by the All India Council For Robotics & Automation (AICRA), is currently focused on promoting AI advancements in sectors like defence, healthcare, agriculture, smart cities, mobility, and education. AICRA plays a key role in setting up standards in the robotics & automation industry, aiding organizations and professionals in solving technical challenges.
GAISA highlights the importance of AI in everyday life and business sectors. Its primary objective is to create a well-defined plan for utilizing AI startups and ecosystem for societal benefit. It emphasizes fostering multidisciplinary groups to eliminate working silos among various stakeholders and find tech-based solutions for society’s crucial sectors.
Demystifying Artificial Intelligence and its Origins
AI refers to machines performing tasks ordinarily requiring human intelligence. These tasks are powered by technologies such as machine learning, pattern recognition, big data, neural networks, and self-algorithms.
Originating from Greek mythology concepts, AI became operational in modern history with the advent of stored program electronic computers. Today, algorithms powered by AI surround us, making human-like tasks possible, from Facebook’s friend suggestions to pop-up ads during internet browsing.
AI technology isn’t simple; it involves complex operations including feeding specific data into systems and enabling them to respond to different situations. This technology aims to develop self-learning patterns in machines so they can answer questions in a human-like manner.
AI’s Role in India’s Development Process: A Closer Look
In the context of the Make in India program, AI can enable India to serve as the world’s factory, providing global markets with both equipment and technology. Thanks to India’s vast talent pool, there’s significant potential for exploring newer applications of AI across economic sectors.
The Indian government is leveraging AI to redefine operational processes – like the Unified Logistics Interface Platform (ULIP) that uses AI for enhancing the country’s logistics ecosystem. Several other initiatives including PM Gatishakti National Master Plan, Open Network for Digital Commerce (ONDC), and GeM are using AI for improving efficiency and service delivery.
AI’s potential isn’t restricted to these areas; it can also significantly transform the lives of farmers, fishermen, and businesses in the Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSME) sector. These efforts combined with meaningful contributions from industry players, startups, incubators, and academia, are positioning India as a global hub for the AI revolution.
Artificial Intelligence in UPSC Civil Services Examination
Understanding AI’s capabilities is crucial, even for competitive examinations like the UPSC Civil Services Examination. For instance, candidates were asked in the 2020 Prelims examination to identify tasks that AI can accomplish effectively, such as reducing power consumption in industrial units, enabling disease diagnosis, and simplifying text-to-speech conversions.
Another question in the Mains examination required candidates to discuss the relationship between digital revolution, e-Governance, and government operations, highlighting the critical role of technology and AI in modern India.