RAJEEV CHANDRASEKHAR CLARIFIES AI DEPLOYMENT ADVISORY DOESN'T AFFECT STARTUPS

Union Minister for Electronics and Technology Rajeev Chandrasekhar clarified that the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology’s (MeitY) recent advisory on Artificial Intelligence (AI) applies only to significant platforms, with startups exempted from seeking permission.

The advisory, issued on March 1, 2024, mandates explicit government permission for deploying AI models, large language models (LLMs), or generative AI software on the Indian internet. MeitY also emphasized the need for platforms to prevent bias, discrimination, or threats to the electoral process arising from the use of AI algorithms. Minister Chandrasekhar highlighted that the advisory aims to regulate untested AI platforms and ensures transparency through permission-seeking, labelling, and consent-based disclosure to users. Emphasizing the importance of safety and trust in India’s internet, the Minister reaffirmed the country’s commitment to deploying emerging technologies responsibly. Prime Minister Narendra Modi previously underscored the global challenge posed by deep fakes, urging vigilance against their potential misuse to spread false information or malicious intent.

The Ministry’s advisory underscores the government’s proactive approach to regulating emerging technologies to safeguard public interest and national security. By requiring explicit permission for deploying AI and related technologies, the government aims to mitigate potential risks associated with their use, such as misinformation dissemination and electoral interference. Chandrasekhar’s clarification provides clarity on the scope of the advisory, ensuring that startups are not unduly burdened with regulatory requirements, thereby fostering innovation and entrepreneurship in the tech sector.