India has dropped its plan to require government approval to launch artificial intelligence (AI) models in an important policy change. The Ministry of Electronics and IT announced the change in an updated AI advisory after ensuing criticism from both local and global entrepreneurs and investors.
The preceding policy had directed companies to seek approval before launching or organising an AI model in the South Asian market. This was seen as a major obstacle to AI development, possibly smothering revolution and growth in one of the world’s fastest-growing tech markets.
However, under the revised guidelines, firms are now advised to label under-tested and unreliable AI models to inform users of their potential frailty or unreliability. This is seen as a more balanced approach that allows for the constant development and distribution of AI while guaranteeing that users know the limitations and potential risks associated with AI models.
This amendment comes after the IT ministry faced stark disapproval from many high-profile individuals earlier this month. Martin Casado is a partner at the venture firm Andreessen Horowitz. He had called India’s move “a travesty”. The disapproval highlighted the possible negative influence of the previous policy on the AI industry in India, provoking the government to reconsider its position.
The advisory highlights that AI models should not be used to share illegal content under Indian law and should not permit bias, discrimination, or threats to the reliability of the electoral process. Mediators are also advised to use “consent popups” or similar mechanisms to inform users about the unreliability of AI-generated output.
This policy change is seen as a positive move for the AI industry in India, possibly shaping the way for increased improvement and growth. However, it also highlights the current challenges in regulating AI by balancing the need for invention with the need to protect users and guarantee the ethical use of technology.
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