As the world grapples with the rapid advancement of Artificial Intelligence (AI), India is taking a proactive approach to ensure that its AI journey is guided by ethical principles and the rule of law. In 2023, the Indian government published a proposal for the Digital India Act (DIA), which aims to establish a principles-based approach to AI adoption, building upon the governance principles outlined in NITI Aayog’s 2018 National Strategy for Artificial Intelligence.
The DIA proposal is informed by the UNESCO Recommendation on the Ethics of Artificial Intelligence, which provides a roadmap for developing ethics guidelines for AI. This initiative is a significant step towards creating a regulatory framework that balances the benefits of AI with the need to protect individuals’ rights and interests. The proposed approach is guided by five key principles: openness, safety and trust, accountability, quality of service, and redress.
Aligning AI with the Rule of Law
Ultimately, India’s AI journey should align with the rule of law. Courts should be transparent about AI usage, offering remedies if AI errors occur. This ensures that AI tools uphold due process and public trust. A collaborative effort is required between the judiciary, legislators, bar leaders, and technologists to ensure that AI is used in a way that respects the rights of citizens and upholds the principles of justice.
International Applications of Indian AI Tools
India has been at the forefront of AI adoption, and its AI tools have been applied in various international contexts. For instance, Indian AI tools have been used in legal fraternities, including current databases. These international applications demonstrate the potential of Indian AI tools to contribute to the global AI ecosystem.
The Importance of Transparency and Accountability
Transparency and accountability are crucial in ensuring that AI is used ethically. In India, the government has taken steps to increase transparency, including the publication of a proposal for the Digital India Act. This proposal provides a framework for AI adoption that prioritizes the protection of individuals’ rights and interests.
Conclusion
In conclusion, India’s approach to AI is a significant step towards creating a regulatory framework that balances the benefits of AI with the need to protect individuals’ rights and interests. The proposed Digital India Act provides a principles-based approach to AI adoption, guided by openness, safety and trust, accountability, quality of service, and redress. As India continues to develop its AI ecosystem, it is essential to prioritize transparency, accountability, and the protection of individuals’ rights and interests. By doing so, India can set a positive example for other countries and contribute to the development of a global AI ecosystem that is guided by ethical principles and the rule of law.
Originally published on https://www.varindia.com/news/india-plans-voluntary-ai-code-of-conduct-and-public-sector-guidelines
