By Fauzia Khan & Sanika Deshmukh

In the rapidly evolving technological landscape, India finds itself at a significant juncture. The nation is grappling with the challenge of harnessing the immense potential of artificial intelligence (AI) while ensuring its ethical deployment. As technology continues to shape the trajectory of societies worldwide, India's responsibility is to ensure that AI's transformative power is used ethically, equitably, and in alignment with human rights principles.
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The AI Boom in India

The Indian artificial intelligence market has experienced remarkable growth. In 2022, the market size reached a staggering $680 million. Projections suggest that by 2028, this figure could soar to $3,935.5 million, translating to an annual growth rate of 33.28% between 2023 and 2028. Such rapid adoption of AI highlights its potential to revolutionize various sectors, from healthcare to governance. However, this growth trajectory also emphasizes the pressing need for a robust regulatory framework to ensure AI's responsible and ethical use.
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The Regulatory Challenge

Despite the flourishing AI ecosystem in India, the country currently lacks specific codified laws, statutory rules, or government-issued guidelines to regulate AI technologies. This absence of a regulatory framework has created an environment where AI can be deployed without clear ethical oversight. Such a scenario can lead to unintended and potentially harmful consequences. The recent statement by the Minister of State for Electronics and Information Technology further underscores this concern.
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Conclusion

"In a world driven by innovation, our responsibility lies in shaping technology to uplift humanity, not to divide or oppress." As India continues to make strides in the realm of AI, it is imperative for the nation to navigate this journey with a clear vision. Balancing innovation with ethical accountability will be crucial in ensuring that AI serves as a force for good, benefiting society at large.