The Aakhya Weekly #76 | Accelerating the Global AI Governance Conversation
The Aakhya Weekly #76 | Accelerating the Global AI Governance Conversation
In Focus: India plays host at the 4th GPAI Summit
By Yashvika Malhan
In recent months, the global buzz has undeniably centered around artificial intelligence (AI) or specifically generative AI — its promises, potentials, and, of course, the lingering concerns. As we collectively explore the capabilities of various AI models, the reactions are as diverse as the applications themselves. Some are left in awe, others are fueled with excitement, while a few find themselves grappling with a touch of worry or even outright fear. What stands out in this technological revelation is the fact that we're the generation witnessing the birth of machines capable of making decisions that were once the exclusive domain of us humans. We've transitioned from mere users to active participants, leveraging these AI capabilities to augment and enhance various aspects of our lives.
Amidst this wave of AI exploration, India, having recently successfully orchestrated the G20 summit, has now taken the helm of another pivotal event, this time squarely focused on the hot topic of AI. This week, New Delhi played host to the 4th Global Partnership on Artificial Intelligence (GPAI) Summit, where representatives from 29 member countries gathered with a shared goal: bridging the gap between AI theory and its real-world application. The 4th GPAI Summit becomes a crucial nexus where nations actively contribute to shaping the trajectory of AI development, ensuring that it aligns with our shared aspirations and values.
The AI Declaration
After extensive discussions at the recent summit led by Union Minister Rajeev Chandrasekhar, the adoption of the New Delhi Declaration emerged as a crucial step in influencing the global stance on artificial intelligence (AI). This concise document represents a joint commitment among participating nations to collectively advance AI applications, particularly in vital sectors such as healthcare and agriculture. The declaration encapsulates the consensus that while AI holds inherent economic growth potential, it necessitates concerted efforts to mitigate associated harms. By contrast, the declaration that was signed at the UK AI Safety Summit last month put security and safety risks related to AI at the center of the discussions. At the Bletchley Park meeting, 28 major countries agreed to sign a declaration saying global action is needed to tackle the potential risks of AI.
A notable outcome from the New Delhi summit is the unanimous agreement to use the GPAI platform for creating a global framework on AI trust and safety. This unified stance signifies a collective step toward responsible AI development, actively addressing ethical concerns associated with the rapid advancement of artificial intelligence. The declaration's acknowledgment of the unique needs of the Global South reflects a collective effort toward a more inclusive and equitable technological landscape. As we, globally, venture into this uncharted territory, reaching a shared understanding of fundamental principles becomes imperative.
Decoding India's Position
India has emerged as a nation effectively utilizing technology for extensive governance solutions, notably with initiatives like the Aadhaar biometric identity program and the Unified Payments Interface (UPI). This approach, known as India’s Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI), involves the government approving certain technologies, which private entities then use for various applications. Now, taking a similar approach to artificial intelligence (AI), India is navigating a path that combines regulatory oversight with innovation.
On the global stage, governments everywhere are trying to figure out how to govern AI. However, there's no one-size-fits-all solution. In February 2021, India set a significant course by introducing the Principles for Responsible AI. This step is part of a broader strategy outlined by NITI Aayog, building on the national approach. These principles act as a guide or roadmap for India to create an ethical and responsible AI system that spans different sectors. It's a deliberate move to ensure that AI technologies align with ethical standards and contribute responsibly across various domains.
Furthermore, MeitY took another step in that direction by revealing a draft of the National Data Governance Framework Policy. The proposal suggests the creation of an India Datasets platform, intended to host non-personal and anonymized datasets sourced from central government entities. The primary goal is to make these datasets accessible to startups and Indian researchers. The overarching aim of this policy is to modernize government data collection processes, fostering enhanced governance and stimulating AI and data-led research within India's startup ecosystem.
Fast forward to March 2023, the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) unveiled IndiaAI, a national program dedicated to artificial intelligence (AI). This comprehensive initiative aims to cover all aspects of AI-related research and innovations. MeitY has adopted a collaborative approach involving the government, academia, corporates, and start-ups. They've established a task force with the explicit responsibility of creating a strategic plan for the development, structure, and functioning of IndiaAI.
The Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) also took the initiative by establishing a committee dedicated to the formulation of draft Indian Standards in alignment with international ISO Standards, particularly in the domain of artificial intelligence (AI). Presently, three draft Indian standards related to AI have been proposed, with the latest one focusing on risk management. This alignment with ISO standards is envisioned to serve as a catalyst in streamlining the deployment and utilization of AI tools. By establishing an interoperable framework, it facilitates a harmonious integration with existing legal and regulatory structures. The significance lies not only in standardization but also in the potential to expedite the development and deployment of AI technologies.
Union Minister Rajeev Chandrasekhar has articulated India's distinct approach to AI governance. In contrast to Europe's rights-centric regulation and the U.S.’s market-oriented model, India is positioned as a hybrid, drawing from both approaches. While the conceptual framework is clear, the practical implementation of this hybrid approach remains a dynamic process. The uncertainty surrounding the formulation of concrete regulations therefore implies a cautious trajectory.
Integral to India's AI strategy is the pivotal aspect of bringing all voices to the table. Addressing the historical lag in government regulation of technology, Chandrasekhar emphasized the need for a proactive global approach to regulating AI, preventing the concentration of commercial power in the hands of Big Tech firms. Drawing parallels, he positioned AI as a potentially "radioactive" technology in the wrong hands, necessitating a global legal framework to prevent misuse and foster responsible development. Looking ahead, India's throwing its hat in the ring, proposing to host a GPAI Global Governance Summit in the next six months. India seems to not just join the AI conversation; it is aiming to lead the discussion.
The Slippery Slope of Governance
With respect to what kind of AI regulation should exist, rather than imposing rigid rules through restrictive regulation on AI, there is merit in adopting a more nuanced approach, akin to governance. Rules can inadvertently convey a restrictive tone, whereas guidance fosters a collaborative ethos, suggesting a collective effort to ensure responsible AI practices while allowing for innovation. The enthusiasm surrounding AI stems from its potential to revolutionize various facets of life by simplifying tasks, addressing complex problems, and enhancing the overall quality of life. However, this transformative promise is accompanied by concerns such as biases, ethical considerations, and the potential for unintended consequences. Governing AI, as opposed to a prescriptive regulatory approach, enables us to shape a responsible technological landscape without stifling the dynamic innovations inherent in AI development.
A case in point can be Microsoft which has released a comprehensive report outlining a Five-Point Blueprint for the Public Governance of AI in India. The blueprint emphasizes the implementation of government-led AI safety frameworks, the enforcement of effective safety mechanisms for AI systems managing critical infrastructure, the development of a comprehensive legal and regulatory framework rooted in AI's technological architecture, and a commitment to transparency, ensuring public access to AI-related information. Additionally, Microsoft advocates for forging public-private partnerships to effectively address the societal challenges accompanying the advent of new technology. Similar governance frameworks can be devised in collaboration with academia, the private sector, and civil society organizations to uniquely solve the issue.
Navigating the Uncertainties
Navigating the uncertain potential of AI poses a considerable challenge in itself. The inherent uncertainty surrounding AI underscores the complexity of its governance. Excessive government intervention, while well-intentioned, runs the risk of stifling the technology's potential and may lead to unintended consequences. Hence, a measured and thoughtful approach is imperative, considering the multifaceted nature of this uncertain technology. Policymakers must strike a delicate balance, intervening when necessary to address potential harms, such as those posed by deepfakes. On the other hand, concerns such as about the impact of AI on employment and the workforce add another layer of uncertainty. The question of whether AI will lead to job displacement is still an unknown variable in this equation.
The ongoing conversation accelerated by initiatives like GPAI reflects the growing awareness of the need for effective AI governance. As we progress, mastering the extent to which governance is applied becomes a critical aspect of shaping the trajectory of AI in a responsible and beneficial manner.
Top Stories of the Week
Govt bans onion exports for the 4th quarter of this fiscal year
The Indian government imposed a ban on the export of onions from December 8 to March 31, 2024, aimed at ensuring affordability and domestic supply adequacy. Even the existing ban on de-oiled rice bran exports was extended till March 2024.
The centre also directed the National Cooperative Consumers' Federation (NCCF) and the National Agricultural Cooperative Marketing Federation of India (NAFED) to procure 7 lakh tonnes of onions as a buffer. It is procuring onions under the Price Stabilisation Fund (PSF), which was established to regulate the cost volatility of essential commodities and prevent adverse effects on stakeholders.
The government undertook several export-prohibitive measures this year. For instance, it banned non-basmati white rice exports in July and imposed a 40% export duty and a Minimum Export Price of $800/tonne on onions in August and October respectively, while disposing of buffer stocks in open and high-priced markets. These interventions decreased the national average retail price of onions from ₹59.9/kg (Nov) to ₹56.8/kg (Dec 8).
While previous years’ ban on the export of wheat and broken rice was relaxed recently, the ban on sugar exports was extended indefinitely, barring a few exceptions. All the above curbs debilitated global food markets, given that India accounts for over 40% of world rice exports, and is the second-largest producer of sugar.
The world is still reeling from the Russia-Ukraine conflict, the crisis in West Asia, and trade restrictions by other major suppliers. Amidst surging prices and food security challenges, global powers urged India to reverse these decisions. However, the restrictions were extended further, with the Centre prioritising domestic needs ahead of a crucial election year. India now seeks to stabilise prices, as delayed harvests, crop losses, and inconsistent monsoons impacted the demand-supply cycles.
FBI and NIA Meet to Address Concerns Over Terrorism
FBI Director Christopher A. Wray's visit to the National Investigation Agency (NIA) headquarters in India underscored the imperative to enhance the partnership between the United States and India in addressing evolving terrorism challenges. Discussions encompassed the recent attack on the Indian consulate in San Francisco and comprehensive investigations into cyber-terrorism and cybercrimes. NIA Director General Dinkar Gupta highlighted the expanding nexus between terrorist groups and organized criminal syndicates, extending its reach to the United States.
The meeting delved into multifaceted issues, including the interplay of terrorist and criminal networks. Recent allegations linking India to a foiled plot in the U.S. were addressed, with India initiating a probe team to investigate the claims. Wray emphasized the commonalities between the FBI and NIA, asserting that their similarities outweigh their differences.
The conversation also touched upon the changing landscape of terrorism, with a focus on cyber threats and the utilization of digital spaces for radicalization and recruitment. NIA pointed out the escalating threats in the cyber domain, including the use of cryptocurrency for terrorist financing. Wray highlighted the increasing trend of cybercrimes funding terrorism, emphasizing the necessity for joint responses in investigating cyber-threat cases.
Challenges in obtaining data from encrypted apps were discussed, acknowledging the rapid evolution of technologies and the ensuing difficulties in tracing, tracking, and investigating crypto transactions. Both agencies recognized the multifaceted challenges posed by organized crime networks, cyber-enabled terror attacks, ransomware threats, economic crimes, and transnational terror. Wray expressed gratitude for the enduring cooperation between the two agencies and expressed eagerness to explore new collaborative opportunities, particularly in training and capacity building for Indian law enforcement. The FBI director assured the NIA of an active investigation into the attack on the Indian Consulate in San Francisco, further solidifying the commitment to a robust partnership against global terrorism threats.
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