On Government of India's Principal Scientific Advisor taking over AI Policy

From Akash Manwani and the ISAIL Secretariat

Official Statement from the ISAIL Secretariat.

The Indian Society of Artificial Intelligence and Law congratulates the Government of India on the Principal Scientific Adviser (PSA) taking over AI Policy from the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeiTY) with a whole-of-government approach.

This change is a significant step towards a more comprehensive and integrated approach to AI policy, which is essential for addressing the complex challenges and opportunities presented by AI in various sectors.

The PSA's role as the chief advisor to the government on matters related to scientific policy, particularly in the context of AI, is crucial in ensuring that AI is developed and deployed in a responsible and beneficial manner for the country. The whole-of-government approach, which involves collaboration across various ministries and institutions, will help to create a more cohesive and effective AI policy framework that can address the diverse needs and challenges of different sectors.

In November 2023, our Chairperson, Mr Abhivardhan, proposed an AI regulation framework, entitled “Draft Artificial Intelligence (Development & Regulation) Act, 2023”. This proposal further emphasizes the commitment of the Indian Society of Artificial Intelligence and Law to nurturing understanding and regulating AI in India, as well as its dedication to creating a robust framework for AI development and regulation.

In addition, the Principal Scientific Adviser's office, through the Prime Minister's Science, Technology and Innovation Advisory Council (PM-STIAC), has been instrumental in fostering scientific cross-sectoral synergy across ministries, institutions, and the industry.

This collaboration will be further strengthened under the new AI policy framework, enabling a more coordinated and impactful approach to AI policy, under a more responsible leadership of the Principal Scientific Adviser relative to the Ministry of Electronics & Information Technology.

We look forward to working with the PSA and other stakeholders to support the development and implementation of a robust AI policy framework that benefits all aspects of Indian society.

ISAIL Officials

Abhivardhan, Founder, Chairperson & Managing Trustee

Indu B Srivastava, Chief Financial Officer & Trustee

Akash Manwani, Chief Innovation Consultant

Anil Thakur, Trustee

Sanjay Notani, President, AI General Assembly

Bogdan Grigorescu, Vice President, AI General Assembly