In today’s fast-paced digital landscape, AI governance has become a pressing concern for governments and businesses alike. India, in particular, is taking bold steps to ensure a smooth transition into the AI era. In this article, we’ll delve into India’s AI governance landscape, focusing on the Institute of Chartered Accountants of India (ICAI) and its role in shaping the country’s AI adoption journey.
Adapting to Technological Shifts
The Institute of Chartered Accountants of India (ICAI) has been at the forefront of technological innovation, successfully applying its existing legal framework across various digital market scenarios. One notable example is its ongoing market study on AI, which has garnered public comments from the Chairperson committing to intervention only after a thorough understanding of AI’s functioning. This signals the ICAI’s preparedness for future AI governance in India.
India’s Ministry of Defence Takes the Lead
In response to the growing need for AI governance, India’s Ministry of Defence has established key bodies to fast-track AI adoption. The Defence AI Council (DAIC), chaired by the Defence Minister and comprising service chiefs, cybersecurity experts, DRDO, industry, and academia, meets biannually to guide policy, operational frameworks, and structural support for defense AI initiatives. The Defence AI Project Agency (DAIPA), led by the Secretary (Defence Production), complements this effort by including members from the services.
Certificate Program for AI Leadership
The TimesPro initiative, in partnership with IITM Pravartak, offers a Certificate Program in AI Leadership. This program aims to equip learners with the skills to lead AI projects across industries. Sridhar Nagarajachar, Business Head at TimesPro, emphasizes that this is more than just a certificate; it’s a career-building opportunity. Graduates of the program will receive a Certificate of Completion from IITM Pravartak, backed by the Department of Science and Technology under the Government of India.
Targeted Competition Rules and AI Governance
The ICAI’s approach to targeted competition rules will significantly interact with broader AI regulations being contemplated for India, such as those under the proposed Digital India Act. For instance, if broader AI regulations mandate a certain level of explainability for high-risk AI systems (akin to the Chinese approach), this directly aids the Competition Commission of India (CCI). This targeted approach will enable the ICAI to effectively regulate AI-driven competition and promote a level playing field in the Indian market.
In conclusion, India’s AI governance landscape is evolving rapidly, with the ICAI playing a crucial role in shaping the country’s AI adoption journey. By embracing targeted competition rules and partnering with industry leaders, the ICAI is poised to drive digital transformation in India. As the country continues to navigate the complexities of AI governance, it’s essential to stay informed and adapt to the ever-changing landscape.
Originally published on https://www.icai.org/post/icai-ai-ais2025-innovation-summit
