Modi in Maharashtra: Use artificial intelligence to improve, not replace humans, says PM

The PM sought to downplay the concerns associated with AI

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday said artificial intelligence should be used for improving humans, instead of making them redundant.

Speaking at the inaugural function of Wadhwani Institute for Artificial Intelligence, a first of its kind in the country, at University of Mumbai (MU), the PM made a case for allowing disruptive technologies like AI to flourish, while cautioning about its use. (HT FILE)

Speaking at the inaugural function of Wadhwani Institute for Artificial Intelligence, a first of its kind in the country, at University of Mumbai (MU), the PM made a case for allowing disruptive technologies like AI to flourish, while cautioning about its use.

“Can we take a global leap on creating artificial intelligence that’s less about making humans redundant and more about increasing human ability and expanding human capacity? Can we make the future less about machines displacing humans to a future about humans becoming better humans by converting their weaknesses into strengths for the greater good of mankind?” he said.

However, the PM sought to downplay the concerns associated with AI. “With the arrival of artificial intelligence, bots and robots’ productivity will further go up, but there are also fears of rising human redundancy because there’s a competition between mind and the machine. Such fears are neither unfounded nor new. At every stage of technology evolution,we have faced such doubts and questions,” said Modi.

The PM also said human intentions are the deciding factor when it comes to the impact of new technologies. He also cautioned that technology should not create disparity in the society.

“It’s this ethics of development which will ensure equity for all people. The march of technology cannot be at the expense of further increasing the difference between society over access to technology. The evolution of technology has to be rooted in Sabka Saath Sabka Vikas,” he said.

Romesh and Sunil Wadhwani, the co-founders of the institute, which will be set up in collaboration with the government of Maharashtra and MU, will donate Rs200 crore for the institute.