Is the Government Committed to ‘Responsible AI’ and Flexible Regulation?
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Synopsis
On October 8, Minister of State for Communications Pemmasani Chandra Sekhar emphasized the government's commitment to create regulations that prioritize user safety while fostering innovation in AI, quantum computing, and 6G. This balance is crucial for addressing modern digital challenges.
Key Takeaways
- Government's commitment to user protection and innovation.
- Need for a new regulatory framework for digital security.
- Connectivity considered a fundamental right.
- Concerns over financial fraud affecting public trust.
- Importance of collaboration to combat digital threats.
New Delhi, Oct 8 (NationPress) The government is dedicated to formulating regulations that ensure user protection while promoting innovation, particularly with the advancement of technologies such as AI, quantum computing, and 6G, stated Minister of State for Communications Pemmasani Chandra Sekhar on Wednesday.
In response to Bharti Airtel Managing Director Gopal Vittal's call for a fresh framework focused on trust, regulatory balance, and security in the digital landscape, the minister addressed key concerns.
During a session at the Indian Mobile Congress 2025 held here, Vittal cautioned that while connectivity issues in India have been resolved, the next significant hurdle is protecting users and enhancing institutional cooperation.
The Airtel executive highlighted that connectivity is now regarded as a fundamental right, and its absence could lead to severe repercussions across various sectors, including banking, aviation, and payments. Nevertheless, he emphasized that the real challenges lie in inclusion, security, and trust, rather than just connectivity.
Vittal expressed alarm over the rise of financial fraud and cybercrime, which he believes are eroding public trust. He pointed out that globally, more than a trillion dollars are lost each year to digital fraud, making trust a critical issue.
Despite Bharti Airtel having blocked 48 billion spam messages and 350,000 fraudulent links since launching its spam detection initiative, Vittal noted that collaboration is essential. He proposed the establishment of new international entities, such as a “fraud bureau,” to combat scams and online threats collectively.
In addressing Vittal's concerns, the minister confirmed that all cutting-edge technologies, including semiconductors, quantum computing, artificial intelligence, and 6G, are under development with targeted goals and funding.
Chandra Sekhar remarked, “Since much of what happens in AI is not visible, we are focusing on responsible AI, which entails ensuring that algorithms are transparent.”
While recognizing that India has a “decent regulatory structure,” he acknowledged the need for rapid adaptation due to the fast-paced evolution of technology.
The government is exploring how to responsibly utilize anonymized data sets to support AI research while balancing innovation and regulation, he explained.
“The pace of technological advancement is outstripping our ability to predict its trajectory, and algorithms can be opaque, necessitating audits, public engagement, and adaptable regulation,” the minister concluded.
Point of View
Our stance aligns with the necessity for a regulatory framework that strikes a balance between innovation and user protection. The rapid evolution of technology requires a proactive approach to ensure that the rights and safety of users are safeguarded in the digital age. We advocate for transparent processes and collaborative efforts to build a secure digital ecosystem in line with national interests.
NationPress
08/10/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the government's stance on AI regulation?
The government aims to create regulations that protect users while encouraging innovation in technologies like AI, quantum computing, and 6G.
How does Bharti Airtel view connectivity?
Bharti Airtel considers connectivity a fundamental right and emphasizes that its absence could have severe impacts on various sectors.
What are the challenges mentioned regarding digital fraud?
Digital fraud and cybercrime undermine public trust, with over a trillion dollars lost annually to such crimes globally.
What initiatives has Bharti Airtel taken against spam?
Bharti Airtel has blocked 48 billion spam messages and 350,000 fraudulent links through its spam detection initiative.
What does 'responsible AI' mean?
Responsible AI focuses on ensuring transparency in algorithms and making certain that AI technologies are developed ethically.
