Artificial Intelligence (AI) is steering the helm of contemporary technological advancements, and with its increasing usage, the need for regulating AI has become unequivocal. The path to worldwide comprehensive legislation for AI regulation has been paved by the European Union (EU). This article will discuss the EU’s proposed framework for AI, varying global approaches to AI regulation, India’s strategy regarding AI regulation, as well as significant developments in AI regulation.
The EU Framework for AI Regulation
Set to revolutionize AI practices globally, the EU’s proposed framework for AI regulation is slated for parliamentary vote in 2024 and could be enforceable by 2025. It features robust safeguards, such as an infrastructure for consumers to lodge complaints against presumed AI violations. The framework also defines clear limitations on AI usage by law enforcement agencies, imposes stringent regulations on facial recognition technology, and has provisions for severe penalties for companies violating the rules. Governments are permitted to use real-time biometric surveillance only when facing serious threats like terrorist attacks. The framework classifies AI applications into four risk categories based on their risk level and invasiveness.
Noteworthy EU Regulatory Feats
The EU’s AI regulatory achievements include the implementation of the General Data Protection Regulation since May 2018, focusing on privacy and explicit consent for data processing. The Digital Services Act (DSA) and Digital Markets Act (DMA) regulate hate speech, counterfeit goods, while identifying “dominant gatekeeper” platforms and addressing non-competitive practices and dominance abuse.
Different Global Approaches to AI Regulation
Countries across the globe have adopted diverse strategies for AI regulation. The EU stands at one end of the spectrum with a tough stance, categorising AI based on invasiveness and risk. On the other hand, the United Kingdom supports a ‘light-touch’ approach fostering innovation in AI. Meanwhile, the United States maintains a balanced stance between strict regulation and innovation support, while China has shaped its measures for AI regulation aligning with its policies and priorities.
India’s Approach to AI Regulation
India, which is yet to establish a comprehensive framework for AI regulation, has moved from not considering AI regulation to actively formulating regulations based on a risk-based, user-harm approach. India launched its initial national AI strategy, #AIFORALL, in 2018, aiming at inclusivity. In March 2023, India introduced the national program on AI, IndiaAI, and in the same year issued key papers elucidating principles of responsible AI and recommended setting up a domestic authority to regulate AI.
Sector-specific AI Frameworks in India
In India, sector-wise AI frameworks are emerging. The Indian Council of Medical Research issued ethical guidelines for AI in healthcare in June 2023. The Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) has guided the capital market on AI system policies since January 2019, and National Education Policy 2020 recommends integrating AI awareness in school courses.
India and the Global Partnership on Artificial Intelligence (GPAI)
The GPAI is a consortium of 28 nations and the EU that amalgamates their understanding and cooperation towards the challenges and opportunities of AI. In November 2022, India became the Chair of the GPAI after France and is scheduled to host the Annual GPAI Summit from December 12-14, 2023.
Exploring AI Capabilities with UPSC Civil Services Exam
A question poised in the 2020 UPSC Civil Services Examination prelims asked the candidates to select the effective applications of AI from a given list. These applications included electricity consumption reduction in industrial units, creating meaningful short stories and songs, disease diagnosis, text-to-speech conversion, and wireless transmission of electrical energy. The correct answer was options 1, 3, and 4 indicating the versatility and potential of AI in multiple fields.
