HYDERABAD: With the rapid rise of new technology and the associated pressures felt on both society and the business ecosystem, it becomes critical to make sure that the transition period during which they are adopted is handled well, IT minister Ravi Shankar Prasad said on Monday. Speaking at the World Congress of Information Technology (WCIT) 2018, Prasad pointed out that one of the most critical priorities for the government in the ongoing digital revolution is digital inclusion and empowering the normal citizen with technology.
“For this, Right of Access is critical and without getting into the nitty gritties of net neutrality, we have taken a firm and clear stand -- Right to Access is non-negotiable,” Prasad said. But, while this would result in plenty of opportunities, Prasad said there would be a few challenges too, including properly handling the transition period. He also pointed out that new technologies like artificial intelligence must make sure that the story of India’s digital revolution remains one of engagement.
“AI must create an ecosystem where issues like food security, healthcare, digital delivery of services have new meaning.” He also flagged the importance of framing ethical and regulatory frameworks around such technologies, both to fix responsibility and to guide their development. “For example, if a driverless car meets with an accident trying to save the life of someone crossing the road in a hurry, who is responsible and what is the nature of the responsibility. This area, ethical and regulatory issues, require to be worked on in a meaningful manner.