In a recent interview with PTI, Amandeep Singh Gill, the UN Secretary-General’s Envoy on Technology, commended India’s remarkable strides in establishing a robust digital public infrastructure. Gill asserted that India’s success in this realm positions it as a crucial player in shaping the future impact of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in the Global South.
Highlighting India’s unique vantage point, Gill acknowledged the country’s achievements in constructing a comprehensive digital foundation. This foundation includes notable developments in digital identity, payment systems, and advanced data flow and management platforms. According to Gill, India’s accomplishments serve as a testament to the potential positive impact of AI in addressing challenges faced by developing nations.
Gill advocated for India to assume a leadership role in promoting responsible AI applications, particularly in areas like financial inclusion and extending essential health and education programs to the last mile. He emphasized the potential for India to foster a digital economy that creates ample job opportunities for its burgeoning youth population.
The UN envoy underscored the importance of India collaborating with other Global South nations, including Indonesia, Brazil, Kenya, and South Africa. Despite not possessing the vast data resources or economic prowess of China or the US, Gill highlighted the collective significance of these nations in shaping the AI landscape.
Gill, who assumed his role as the UN Envoy on Technology last year, stressed the pivotal role of the Global Partnership on Artificial Intelligence (GPAI). He specifically pointed to the recent GPAI summit in Delhi, inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, as a crucial platform both technologically and from a political and policy standpoint.
In advocating for broader participation in AI initiatives, Gill stressed the importance of the Global South’s involvement in governance frameworks. He highlighted the need for inclusive engagement in AI governance, emphasizing that addressing the impact of AI—both positive and concerning—requires the participation of all of humanity.
Beyond technological advancements, Gill underscored the imperative of preserving cultural diversity and upholding values such as democracy and human rights in AI development. He cautioned against the potential misuse of AI for mass surveillance and emphasized India’s experiences in addressing these challenges, which he believes hold global significance.
Gill addressed the risks and challenges posed by AI, including misinformation and changes in the labor market. He emphasized the crucial need for comprehensive assessments backed by scientific evidence and advocated for UN engagement in conducting risk assessments to ensure ethical AI development on a global scale.
