The India Mobile Congress (IMC) 2024, Asia’s largest digital technology forum, prominently featured artificial intelligence (AI) as a central theme. The event, held in New Delhi, saw participation from over 400 exhibitors and around 900 startups, showcasing more than 900 technology use cases, with 750 specifically centred on AI. Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s inaugural visit telld India’s commitment to leading in technological innovation, particularly in AI applications across various sectors.
Significance of AI in Modern Technology
AI has emerged as a transformative force across industries, enhancing operational efficiency and providing innovative solutions to longstanding challenges. Its applications range from automating mundane tasks to complex decision-making processes. AI technologies are increasingly being integrated into healthcare, agriculture, and telecommunications, demonstrating their versatility and potential to revolutionise these sectors.
Key Use Cases Highlighted at IMC 2024
A variety of AI-driven solutions were presented at IMC 2024. Notably, Bharti Airtel launched India’s first AI-powered spam detection system, which helps users manage unwanted communications effectively. Ericsson introduced a 5G-enabled robotic dog, Rocky, designed for emergency response, showcasing AI’s role in enhancing public safety. Additionally, Vodafone Idea demonstrated real-time diagnostics for remote healthcare, enabling doctors to conduct consultations efficiently, which is particularly beneficial for rural communities.
AI in Agriculture and Sustainability
The agriculture sector also saw AI innovations at IMC 2024. The Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) showcased AI solutions for smart farming, including automated feeding systems for fish that monitor water quality. Mahindra University students presented tools for optimising shrimp farming conditions, denoting AI’s capacity to improve productivity while ensuring sustainability.
Educational Institutions and AI Research
IMC 2024 served as a platform for academic institutions such as IITs and IIMs to exhibit their research and innovations. The event brought into light the role of education in driving technological advancements, with showcases of large language models (LLMs) like BharatGen. The participation of institutions like the C3iHub at IIT Kanpur, focusing on cybersecurity, reflects a growing recognition of the need to secure AI applications in critical infrastructure.
Women in Tech and Startups
The IMC also placed emphasis on women-led startups, such as Astrome and Easiofy Solutions, which are making strides in AI applications. This focus on inclusivity in technology not only promotes diversity but also enriches the innovation landscape by incorporating varied perspectives and solutions.
Future of AI in India
The advancements presented at IMC 2024 indicate a robust future for AI in India. With ongoing investments in research and development, coupled with government support, the potential for AI to drive economic growth and improve quality of life is immense. The convergence of technology and education is likely to accelerate this progress, placing India at the forefront of the global AI landscape.
Questions for UPSC:
- Discuss the impact of AI on various sectors showcased at IMC 2024.
- Evaluate the role of educational institutions in advancing AI technologies in India.
- Analyse the significance of women-led startups in the technology sector.
- What are the potential challenges associated with the implementation of AI in critical infrastructure?
- Examine the role of government policies in promoting AI research and development in India.
