The government recently launched a national program named ‘Responsible Artificial Intelligence (AI) for Youth’. Along with this, the government has also announced the commencement of the National Artificial Intelligence Portal, available at http://www.ai.gov.in.
Understanding Artificial Intelligence
Artificial Intelligence, or commonly known as AI, is a term that explains how machines can perform tasks that have traditionally required human intelligence. It involves various technologies such as machine learning, pattern recognition, big data handling, neural network creation, and self algorithms development among others. Examples of AI include making Facebook friend recommendations or generating notifications regarding upcoming sales on favourite brands while browsing the internet.
Artificial Intelligence is a complex field. It includes feeding particular data into a machine and making it respond to different situations, mimicking human decision-making processes.
An Overview of the National Artificial Intelligence Portal
Developed by the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology in collaboration with the National Association of Software and Services Companies (NASSCOM), the National AI portal serves as a digital platform for sharing resources. These resources may include articles, information about startups, investment funds in AI, details of companies, and educational institutions related to AI in India.
The portal will also share documents, case studies, and research reports. It has dedicated a section for learning and information about new job roles emerging in the AI field.
Facts about the Responsible AI for Youth Programme
Designed with the aim of extending its reach to students from Government schools across India, the program aims to reduce the skill gap, enable the youth to create socially impactful solutions, and provide a platform for acquiring relevant AI skills.
Created by the Ministry of Electronics & IT, in collaboration with Intel India, and supported by the Ministry of Human Resource Development, the program opens up for students of classes 8-12 from Central and State government-run schools across India.
The programme will be in a phase-wise manner. In the first phase, each State will nominate ten teachers as per the eligibility criteria. These teachers would go through sessions to help them understand the premise and identify 25-50 potential students for the program. Nominated students will attend online training sessions on AI, wherein they will learn to identify social impact projects that can be developed using AI.
The Future of AI in India
With the launch of this program, India aims to lay a strong foundation for AI. It will supplement growth and development in various fields like education, agriculture, healthcare, e-commerce, finance, telecommunications, etc. The Responsible AI for Youth Programme is anticipated to uncover long-term, innovative solutions that will significantly contribute to reducing the existing digital gap in the country.
