PM Modi at Paris AI Summit: "We Are in the Dawn of AI Age"
Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressed the 2024 AI Action Summit in Paris, highlighting the transformative impact of artificial intelligence on the global economy, security, and society. He emphasized India's role as a leader in AI adoption, its digital infrastructure, and its commitment to ensuring AI is used for the greater good. Thanking French President Emmanuel Macron for inviting him to co-chair the summit, Modi spoke about AI’s potential and the need for responsible development.
AI’s Role in Shaping the Future
PM Modi described AI as a defining technology of the century, stating, "AI is already reshaping our economy, security, and even our society. AI is writing the code for humanity in this century. We are at the dawn of the AI age that will shape the course of humanity." His remarks underscored the need to prepare for an AI-driven future while ensuring its development remains ethical and inclusive.
India’s AI-Driven Digital Infrastructure
One of the key highlights of Modi’s speech was India's success in building a robust digital public infrastructure that serves over 1.4 billion people at a low cost. He noted that India's AI ecosystem is built around an open and accessible network with regulations designed to modernize the economy, reform governance, and improve the lives of citizens. "India has successfully built a digital public infrastructure for over 1.4 billion people at a very low cost. It is built around an open and accessible network. It has regulations and a wide range of applications to modernize our economy, reform governance, and transform the lives of our people," he said.
Modi also pointed out that India has one of the world’s largest AI talent pools, positioning the country as a global leader in AI research and innovation. He emphasized that India is committed to developing AI solutions that prioritize data privacy and security.
Building India's Own Large Language Model
Recognizing India's linguistic and cultural diversity, PM Modi announced that India is developing its own large language model tailored to its unique needs. "We also have a unique public-private partnership model for pooling resources like compute power. It is made available to our startups and researchers at an affordable cost. India is ready to share its experience and expertise to ensure that AI’s future is for good and for all."
His emphasis on collaboration between the government and private sector highlights India's strategy of fostering AI innovation while making technology accessible and affordable.
The Importance of Responsible AI Development
PM Modi stressed that AI must be developed with responsibility and a focus on trust, transparency, and ethical considerations. He spoke about the importance of open-source AI systems and quality data centers that are free from biases. "We must develop open-source systems that enhance trust and transparency. We must build quality data centers free from biases, we must democratize technology and create people-centered applications."
He also raised concerns about AI-related challenges such as cyber threats, misinformation, and deepfakes, urging global leaders to address these issues collaboratively. "We must address concerns related to cybersecurity, disinformation, and deepfakes. We must also ensure that technology is rooted in local ecosystems for it to be effective and useful."
AI and Job Market Transformation
One of the biggest fears surrounding AI adoption is the potential loss of jobs. PM Modi acknowledged this concern but reassured that AI will not eliminate jobs but change their nature. "Loss of jobs is AI’s most feared disruption, but history has shown that work does not disappear due to technology, only its nature changes. We need to invest in skilling and re-skilling our people for an AI-driven future."
He emphasized the importance of workforce development, calling for increased investment in skill training programs to prepare individuals for new roles in an AI-powered economy.
India’s Vision for AI
PM Modi’s speech at the Paris AI Summit reinforced India's vision of AI as a force for good. By advocating for responsible AI development, collaboration between nations, and democratization of technology, he positioned India as a global leader in shaping AI’s future. His call for ethical AI, investments in digital infrastructure, and a commitment to workforce training reflects a comprehensive strategy for integrating AI into society in a way that benefits everyone.
Conclusion
PM Modi’s address at the Paris AI Summit highlighted India’s proactive approach to AI adoption, its commitment to responsible technology development, and the need for global cooperation in shaping AI policies. As AI continues to transform economies and societies, India’s emphasis on inclusivity, transparency, and ethical innovation will play a crucial role in shaping the future of AI on a global scale.