In a groundbreaking move, some of the biggest names in technology and academia have come together to form the Coalition for Responsible Evolution of AI (CoRE-AI) in India. This coalition, which includes tech giants like Google, Microsoft, and Infosys, as well as esteemed institutions such as the Indian Institute of Management Bangalore (IIM-B) and several innovative AI startups, aims to foster responsible AI development and deployment in the country.
A Diverse and Powerful Alliance
The CoRE-AI coalition is a multi-stakeholder initiative that brings together over 30 key players from various sectors. This includes not only global tech conglomerates but also leading Indian AI startups like CoRover.ai, known for its BharatGPT, and Beatoven.ai, an AI music startup1. The coalition is housed within The Dialogue, a tech think tank based in New Delhi, which will serve as the hub for its activities.
Objectives and Vision
The primary goal of CoRE-AI is to create public trust in AI through voluntary industry guidelines and standards. The coalition aims to address critical issues such as bias and fairness in AI algorithms, transparency in AI operations, and the upholding of user privacy and data protection. By fostering innovation among Indian AI startups and ensuring that the voices of industry, academia, and startups are heard in AI regulation discussions, CoRE-AI seeks to establish a trustworthy and innovative AI ecosystem in India.
Government Support and Collaboration
The Indian government has shown strong support for this initiative. Mr. S. Krishnan, Secretary of the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY), emphasized the importance of such collaborations in achieving a balanced approach to AI regulation. He expressed confidence that CoRE-AI will contribute significantly to India’s leadership in AI on a global scale.
“Government welcomes support, and interventions from a wide range of players who can bring the relevant information to the table on this aspect,” said Mr. Krishnan. “And taking in all of these inputs, undoubtedly a robust framework will emerge where India will also be able to not just use AI for the benefit of its own people, but play a leadership role globally. I’m confident the CoRE-AI forum will contribute to this larger national goal,” he added in a video statement.
With the central government’s Cabinet approving the IndiaAI mission in March, with a budget outlay of ₹10,372 crore, the timing of this coalition could not be more perfect. The mission aims to make AI in India and make AI work for India, aligning perfectly with the objectives of CoRE-AI.
A Principles-Based Approach
One of the unique aspects of CoRE-AI is its commitment to a principles-based approach to AI regulation. This involves utilizing risk assessments to provide flexibility in addressing AI’s diverse challenges. The coalition will develop guidelines and contribute to a robust governance framework, differentiating between regulating AI and regulating responsible AI practices.
“The Coalition will differentiate between regulating AI and regulating responsible AI practices, aiming to establish overarching principles for ethical AI development and deployment. This nuance will be essential as it shifts the focus from merely imposing restrictions on AI technologies to fostering an environment where ethical considerations, fairness, and transparency are integral to AI development and deployment,” CoRE-AI told The Hindu.
Addressing Bias and Fairness
Bias and fairness in AI algorithms are among the top concerns for CoRE-AI. The coalition aims to ensure that AI systems are developed and deployed in a manner that is fair and unbiased. This involves creating standards and guidelines that promote transparency and accountability in AI operations.
Transparency and Privacy
Transparency in AI operations and the protection of user privacy are also key focus areas for CoRE-AI. The coalition will work towards establishing practices that ensure AI systems operate transparently and that user data is protected at all times.
Public-Private Partnerships
CoRE-AI recognizes the importance of public-private partnerships in achieving its goals. By collaborating with various stakeholders, the coalition aims to create a balanced approach to AI regulation that fosters innovation while ensuring responsible AI practices.
Conclusion
The formation of CoRE-AI marks a significant milestone in the journey towards responsible AI in India. By bringing together some of the most influential players in the tech industry and academia, this coalition is poised to make a substantial impact on the AI landscape in India. With a focus on innovation, transparency, and fairness, CoRE-AI is set to lead the way in creating a trustworthy and innovative AI ecosystem in the country.