On January 18, 2024, at the Tech for Good Conference hosted by NASSCOM Foundation, Radha Basu, Founder and CEO of iMerit, takes the stage to discuss the importance of Responsible AI amid mind-blowing advancements in machine learning. A seasoned professional, Radha’s journey intertwines with the inception of India’s IT revolution, from early wins to now making responsible, ethical, and sustainable technology decisions. She shared a visionary outlook on India’s role in leading the world into the era of Responsible AI.
The Landscape of AI in India
India has emerged as a global hub for technology and innovation, with an AI ecosystem encompassing research, development, and deployment, with startups, tech giants, and academic institutions contributing to the growth. However, as the nation harnesses the power of AI, the importance of ethical considerations and responsible practices cannot be overstated. Responsible AI is not just a moral obligation but a strategic imperative to ensure that we reap the benefits of AI without compromising on fairness, transparency, and accountability.
Developing Responsible AI Applications
Radha steers the conversation beyond a mere listing of AI applications. She emphasizes deploying these models responsibly, ensuring they aren’t just technologically advanced but socially beneficial. These applications may span from autonomous technologies to healthcare and agriculture.
- AI in Healthcare: Radha paints a picture of the transformative power of generative AI and large vision models. Her vision extends to remote areas with mobile clinics leveraging AI for diagnostics, seamlessly transmitted to specialists in bustling metros.
- AI in Agriculture: Shifting the focus to agriculture, Radha delves into the revolutionary impact of AI in precision agriculture. Early disease identification enables farmers to address issues before they become widespread, signaling AI’s potential to reshape farming practices.
- AI in Autonomous Mobility: Responsible AI in autonomous mobility must recognize the importance of human-AI collaboration. Enabling seamless communication between AI systems and human drivers or pedestrians enhances overall safety and ensures a smooth transition toward a more automated future.
Inclusive Workforce
Shifting the spotlight to the workforce and the fundamental culture of iMerit, Radha emphasizes the collective strength of over 5,500 iMeriters globally, out of which 52% are women and 70% are talented youth from tier 2 and tier 3 towns in India and the US. Inclusivity isn’t just a concept but a fundamental aspect of crafting responsible AI solutions that address global challenges. Bridging the urban-rural divide and addressing biases in AI algorithms are essential aspects of fostering inclusivity.
Scaling Responsible AI
While talking about the future of AI jobs in India, Radha underscores the need for a trifecta of elements – technology, talent, and technique. While technology is essential, Radha asserts that the transformative power lies in the talent pool – specialists and experts who can translate technology into tangible outcomes. She reiterates that the future of AI jobs in India extends beyond the confines of elite institutions. It embraces generalists trained in various verticals who can navigate the complex intersection of technologies like computer vision, NLP, and audio AI.
Conclusion
With the right mix of tech, talent, and technique, Radha envisions India leading the world in responsible AI, fostering a burgeoning industry with leaders who prioritize ethical and impactful AI applications.
