The nation is abuzz with the ongoing AI Impact Summit, and alongside, the India Today Group's AI Summit is drawing attention. Industry titans are actively participating. In an exclusive conversation, Professor Ajay Kumar Sood, India’s Principal Scientific Adviser, delves into the theme of Implementing India’s AI Mission. He starts by exploring AI’s transformative effect on lives.
He states, 'AI is a power that can dramatically change lives. While it might replace some jobs, it promises to create many more. As basic jobs decline, new opportunities will arise, necessitating upskilling.'
'AI skill development is a crucial part of the India AI Mission, and it is underway. First, we must dispel fears surrounding AI. Although it has some downsides, innovation is our strength, and that’s where our focus should be.'
Professor Sood points out, 'We must determine if we are users of AI. If your infrastructure includes computing resources, you can engage in inclusive discussions. Inclusivity must be universal.'
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'Under India AI Mission, we're receiving GPUs at nearly half the cost. We also have a non-personalized AI data repository. This data can be harnessed to develop inclusive AI.'
Professor Sood reveals, 'We're soon introducing a techno-legal framework to ensure AI's safe use. Imagine a transaction process that remains private, involving only the bank and the customer from the start. We're envisioning AI integration similarly.'
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'Our focus is on practical AI application. It's crucial not to entirely depend on external companies. Do we really need LLM all the time? We need to emphasize small, autonomous AI operations. Meanwhile, India is developing its indigenous LLM.'
'Can we pair quantum computing with AI? Currently, we use classic computers with AI. The landscape will shift when quantum computing is integrated with AI.'
Speaking on data centers, he notes, 'Data centers will be essential. Many companies are investing in India, and how we manage resources—water and electricity—will be pivotal. India is well-equipped to handle this.
'The techno-legal framework will assist in regulating AI. Consider a global partnership; how will it operate? Our proposal incorporates legality from the outset—not as rigid as the EU but guiding AI in a constructive direction. Safe AI will lead to job creation.'
Addressing the AI bubble notion, the professor asserts, 'In my view, it's no bubble. If AI can significantly alter lives, it's not a bubble. Evidence can be seen in sectors like healthcare and agriculture. With an abundance of data, if AI aids farmers, it's not a bubble.'
