Concerns Over Generative AI in India

The Indian government is actively deliberating the implications of using generative AI (GenAI) platforms, especially those managed by foreign firms, due to potential risks associated with data privacy and inference capabilities. This concern arises amidst the increasing integration of AI tools in governmental and public sectors.

Key Discussion Points

• Inference Risks:
  • AI systems might identify users' strategic intentions from prompts.
  • Potential mapping of priorities and weaknesses of high-functioning individuals such as bureaucrats and corporate leaders.
  • Concern about global firms leveraging anonymized user data for broader strategic insights.
• Government Measures:
  • The Finance Ministry has banned AI tools like ChatGPT and DeepSeek on official devices to protect government data confidentiality.
  • There is an ongoing debate within the government on protecting official systems from foreign AI services.
• Indigenous Development:
  • India is investing in the development of local large language models (LLMs) under the Rs 10,370-crore India AI Mission.
  • At least 12 LLMs are in development, with an expected rollout targeting governance and public sector applications by year-end.

Strategic Shifts and Recommendations

• Encouragement of Domestic Digital Tools:
  • The government emphasizes using swadeshi digital platforms amid trade tensions with the US.
  • Recent administrative shifts include IT Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw adopting Zoho’s Indian office suite.
• Global Context and Historical Actions:
  • Historical attempts to replace foreign platforms, such as promoting Koo over Twitter, have been noted.
  • India previously banned apps like TikTok for national security reasons after border tensions with China.
• AI Governance Framework:
  • A subcommittee under the IndiaAI Mission recommended creating an India-specific risk assessment framework.
  • A "whole of government approach" for developing AI governance frameworks is advised.

Current Developments with GenAI Companies

• OpenAI’s ChatGPT Go, Alphabet’s Gemini Pro, and Perplexity AI are offering free access to Indian users through telecom partnerships.