AI regulation

Source-This post on AI regulation has been created based on the article “Different approaches to AI regulation” published in “The Hindu” on 8 April 2024.

UPSC Syllabus-GS Paper-3– Awareness in the fields of IT, Space, Computers, Robotics, Nano-technology, Bio-technology, and issues relating to Intellectual Property Rights

Context-There have been many developments in the domain of AI regulation in the last few years. The United Nations Resolution on Artificial Intelligence, the AI Act by the European Parliament, laws introduced on AI in the U.K. and China and the launch of the AI mission in India are some of the steps to ensure AI governance.

What has been the approach of various countries in dealing with AI regulation?

1) China – It has, in phases, released a regulatory framework to address the following 3 issues-

A) Content Moderation-This includes identification of content generated through any AI system.

B) Personal data protection -This lays specific focus on the need to procure users’ consent before accessing and processing their data.

C) Algorithmic Governance-This lays focus on security and ethics while developing and running algorithms over any gathered dataset.

2) The United Kingdom- The approach adopted by U.K. requires mandatory consultations with regulatory bodies and expanding its technical know-how. This will help in better regulating complex technologies while bridging regulatory gaps.
It has adopted a decentralized and softer law approach rather than opting to regulate AI systems through stringent legal rules.

3) The European Union– European Union adopts first AI Law

What is Indias position on regulation of AI?

1) Potential of AI-India will be home to over 10,000 deep tech start-ups by 2030.

2) Steps taken by the government–

A) The government has approved ₹10,300 crore allocation for the India AI mission to further its AI ecosystem through enhanced public-private partnerships.

B) The allocation would be used to deploy 10,000 Graphic Processing Units, Large Multi-Models (LMMs) and other AI-based research collaboration and efficient and innovative projects.

3) Regulation– India does not have a specific regulation as such to deal with AI.However,Indias response would be crucial because it is catering to one of the largest consumer bases and labour forces for technology companies.

What should be the way forward for India?

1) India’s response should align with its commitment towards the SDGs. This would require the judicious use of AI systems to offer solutions that could give a boost to innovation while mitigating its risks.

2) There is a need for adopting a gradual phase-led approach by India to ensure a fair and inclusive AI system

Question for practice

What steps are taken across globe to regulate AI? Highlight Indias position on AI and enlist steps taken by the government to promote AI?