The Indian government has issued a directive to the country’s technology firms, urging them to obtain approval before publicly releasing artificial intelligence (AI) tools that may be unreliable, or still in trial phases.

Companies are also being instructed to label their software so that users are aware that incorrect responses could be given to queries.

In a recent advisory released by the country’s ministry of IT, it was emphasised that the deployment of such tools, including generative AI, on the Indian internet must be authorised explicitly by the Government of India. 

This move aligns with global efforts to establish regulations governing the use of AI wizardry. Notably, India has been intensifying its regulatory measures targeting social media companies, recognising the nation as a key market for growth.

The request follows criticism directed at Google’s Gemini AI tool by a senior minister in February, who denounced Gemini AI for saying that India Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s policies were under fire for being “fascist”. Google swiftly responded, acknowledging the tool’s potential unreliability, especially concerning current events and political matters.

Hitting back on X, Deputy IT Minister Rajeev Chandrasekhar stressed the legal obligation on platforms to ensure safety and trust, stating that claims of unreliability do not exempt them from the law.

India’s directive underscores the importance of safeguarding the electoral process, particularly with the country’s general elections scheduled for this summer. It highlights the necessity for AI tools not to compromise the integrity of the electoral system, as the ruling Hindu nationalist party anticipates a decisive victory.

Know the risks

More broadly, the Indian government’s responsible position issues a stark warning to all organisations to use emerging technology ethically, with transparency and accountability.

Michael Whitbread, Senior Legal Counsel covering AI brands, Affinda and Draftable, spoke exclusively to GRC World Forums, stating:

“It’s an art not a science, but what is universal is the need to give customers and other stakeholders trust and confidence in the organisation’s ethical stance.”

The issues fall into focus next week at PrivSec & GRC Connect London where Michael joins fellow experts in the panel debate:

Ethical AI in principle: Innovation overtaking human privacy rights?

Artificial intelligence (AI) is reshaping the very essence of what it means to be human. With its unmatched speed and self-learning capabilities, AI has the potential to fundamentally redefine our human experience, from enhancing efficiency to advancing scientific frontiers.

However, this transformative power also raises profound societal questions and concerns. This panel discussion seeks to break down the importance of anchoring AI governance in human rights principles.

Exploring why human rights often take a back seat in AI discussions, the panel will aim to illustrate how human rights can be seamlessly woven into future AI governance frameworks, ensuring that AI advancements align with the ethical principles that safeguard our shared humanity. 

Also on the panel…

  • Gary Brown, Chief Privacy Officer, Legal & Compliance, Westinghouse (Panel Moderator)
  • Emma Green, Director, Cyber Data Law Solicitors
  • Sofia Ihsan, Global Responsible AI UK&I Consulting Leader, EY

 

Details

Ethical AI in principle: Innovation overtaking human privacy rights?

Theatre: Privacy & Security (P&S) Theatre

Time: 15:00pm – 15:40pm GMT

Date: Wednesday 13 March 2024 (Day 2)

The session sits within a packed agenda of insight and guidance at PrivSec & GRC Connect London taking place March 12 and 13, 2024.

Click here to see the full agenda

Discover more at PrivSec & GRC Connect London

GRC, Data Protection, Security and Privacy professionals face ongoing challenges to help mitigate risk, comply with regulations, and help achieve their business objectives - they must…

  • Continually adopt new technologies to improve efficiency and effectiveness.
  • Build a culture of compliance and risk awareness throughout the organisation.
  • Communicate effectively with stakeholders and keep them informed of GRC activities.

PrivSec & GRC Connect London takes you to the heart of the key issues, bringing together the most influential GRC, Data Protection, Privacy and Security professionals, to present, debate, learn and exchange ideas.

Click here to register for free to PrivSec & GRC Connect London

 

 

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