Following OpenAI CEO Sam Altman’s acknowledgment of the necessity to regulate Artificial Intelligence (AI) technology, India has announced that its forthcoming Digital India Act will be responsible for establishing guidelines for AI. Union Minister of State for IT and Electronics Rajeev Chandrasekhar informed PTI that the Act will regulate AI and emerging technologies with a focus on preventing harm to users.
Focus on Safeguarding Digital Citizens and Internet Security
Chandrasekhar highlighted India’s commitment to protecting digital citizens and ensuring a secure Internet environment. The Digital India Act will replace the two-decade-old IT Act, marking a significant update in legislation.
Significantly, Chandrasekhar is spearheading the process, which includes extensive consultations with various stakeholders, to formulate the draft Digital India Act. It is evident that India holds its own perspectives on the necessary “guardrails” for the digital realm within the country.
India’s Independent and Capable Minds with Unique Viewpoints
Chandrasekhar recognized Altman’s intelligence and his unique ideas on AI regulation. In addition, Chandrasekhar acknowledged India’s perspective and highlighted their capability in shaping AI regulations independently.
He expressed openness to the idea of an international authority for AI regulation, like the “United Nations of AI”. Nonetheless, he emphasized that India remains committed to prioritizing the well-being of its citizens and ensuring a safe and trustworthy internet environment, irrespective of global developments.
Emphasis on the Necessity of AI Regulation
In his blog post, Altman emphasized the necessity of regulation for AI. Moreover, he highlighted the need for international oversight of AI initiatives surpassing a specified capability or resource threshold. This authority would have the responsibility to inspect AI systems, conduct audits, assess compliance with safety standards, impose restrictions on deployment and security levels, and undertake other relevant measures. Furthermore, Altman’s viewpoint highlights the need for comprehensive and robust regulatory frameworks to ensure the safe and responsible development and deployment of AI technologies.
Focus on Mitigating “Existential Risks” Associated with AI
Altman also suggested that the international authority should focus on mitigating “existential risks” associated with AI rather than dealing with matters that can be addressed by individual countries, such as determining the permissible scope of AI speech. Altman is set to visit India in June for meetings with government officials, indicating potential collaboration opportunities. This visit presents an opportunity for fruitful discussions on AI regulation and collaboration between OpenAI and the Indian government.
