Introduction
In the dynamic landscape of India’s technological evolution, three pillars of progress emerge — the transformative Viksit Bharat Yatra, Prime Minister Modi’s revolutionary Kisan Drone Yojana, and the catalytic force of INDIAai. This trinity represents a cohesive vision where inclusivity and cutting-edge technology converge. As India treads the path towards a tech-driven future, these initiatives signify a harmonious dance between leadership and innovation, echoing the anthem ‘Jai Jawan, Jai Kisan.’ With the Viksit Bharat Yatra embracing Nari Shakti, the youth, the Kisan, and INDIAai shaping the national AI landscape, India’s journey unfolds as a narrative of progress, inclusivity, and technological prowess.
AI for ALL : India’s Leap into the Tech Cosmos
India’s AI trajectory is clearly human-centric, in contrast to the paths taken by many developed countries. It rejects the exclusivist inclinations of gated communities, realising that universal adoption—rather than exclusive ownership—is where AI’s actual power rests. Initiatives such as “AI for All” serve as democratising forces, dismantling the opaque barriers of technical jargon and obscure code scripts. By providing easily understood modules, engaging seminars, and easily accessible online resources, they help small business owners, farmers, and even teenagers—the very fibre of India’s dynamic society—to understand artificial intelligence. These are the game-changing effects of “AI for All.” Picture a street vendor in Kolkata using a chatbot to manage her inventory and interact with clients, or a country farmer in Punjab utilising AI-powered soil analysis to maximise crop harvests.
1)Building a Responsible Future:
- AI with Ethics: India is aware that responsible use of AI’s enormous capability is required. This dedication is demonstrated at RAISE 2020, an international conference on Responsible AI for Social Empowerment. It brings together influential thinkers, decision-makers, and tech behemoths to shape a future in which AI advances humanity rather than subjugates it, guaranteeing moral advancement and fair access for everyone.
- Skilling the Next Generation: Through initiatives like the National e-Governance Division’s “Responsible AI for Youth” program, youth are being equipped with the knowledge and skills necessary to navigate the AI environment in an ethical and responsible way. This generation will not only employ AI, but will also steer its advancement for the good of society at large.
2)Beyond Silicon Valleys:
- Rural Renaissance: Many people living in India’s hinterlands are the real “AI for All” heroes, even though tech companies have a role to play. Technology is closing the gap between urban and rural areas, enabling communities, and realising their full potential. Examples of this include AI-powered irrigation systems in arid regions and telemedicine that reaches remote villages.
- Smart Cities, Smarter Futures: Imagine waste management systems that are optimised by AI algorithms, or traffic signals that can anticipate traffic and change in real-time. By using AI to solve urban issues, projects like the India Urban Data Exchange are improving urban efficiency, livability, and sustainability for all.
3)A Billion Dreams, Powered by AI:
- From Kirana Stores to Global Stars: The AI is giving small firms the ability to compete globally. Digital marketing platforms reach new audiences, chatbots provide multilingual customer care, and AI-powered analytics optimise inventory management. “AI for All” levels the playing field by giving Indian business owners the instruments and assets they need to lead the way in the digital era.
- Healthcare for All, Powered by AI: Imagine the remote clinics diagnosing diseases with AI-assisted imaging, or doctors using AI-powered tools for faster and more accurate diagnoses. “AI for All” promises to revolutionise healthcare, making quality medical care accessible and affordable for every Indian, regardless of location or socioeconomic status.
Nagpur to use facial recognition to track COVID19 patients, click to know more
These are but a few illustrations of the vibrant and varied AI scene in India. Even though the nation still has issues with talent shortages and inadequate infrastructure, it stands out for its emphasis on social effect, inclusivity, and responsible growth. India’s AI journey aims to empower its people and create a more equal future for all, not only develop technology. The world will be closely observing India’s innovation and cooperation to see what opportunities and solutions arise from this thriving AI ecosystem.
Following is an ecosystem builder for the country’s Artificial Intelligence landscape made and owned by the Indian government.
INDIAai :Bridging the Gap Between AI Theory and Practice in India
(Image Source: DailyIssues3)
INDIAai is a multi-pronged program that was introduced in May 2020 and serves as the National AI Portal of India as well as an ecosystem builder for the AI landscape of the nation. Leading the joint endeavour are the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY), the National e-Governance Division (NeGD), and the National Association of Software and Service Companies (NASSCOM). The Department of School Education and Literacy (DoSE&L) and the Ministry of Human Resource Development are providing support.
1)Knowledge Portal:
- Offers a wealth of resources and in-depth information about artificial intelligence, including events, news stories, case studies, and research papers.
- Includes an interactive map that highlights research institutes, startups, and businesses engaged in AI development while displaying AI efforts around India.
- It also offers a team of experts and stakeholders in the Indian AI ecosystem.
2)Research and Development:
- Provides funding for innovative AI research through grants, fellowships, partnerships with research labs and academic institutions, and other means.
- Makes it easier for resources and data to be shared for study.
- Encourages open-source AI projects and resources.
3)Ecosystem Building:
- Offers AI businesses coaching and incubation through initiatives like IndiaAI Start.
- Facilitates the connection of AI academics, developers, and entrepreneurs by organising conferences, workshops, and hackathons.
- Encourages cooperation between government, business, and academia to quicken the development of AI.
4)Public Awareness and Education:
- Uses outreach and educational programs to increase public understanding of the potential advantages and difficulties of artificial intelligence.
- Creates workshops and training materials to provide workers the skills they need to succeed in the AI era.
- Encourages the ethical and responsible development of AI.
5)Government Initiatives:
- Provides a stage for presenting government policies and activities pertaining to artificial intelligence.
- Encourages cooperation between the AI ecosystem and governmental organisations.
- Offers details about government support initiatives and funding sources for artificial intelligence projects.
Visit the National AI Portal at https://indiaai.gov.in/ for a glimpse into the future
Taking a deeper look into Indian AI and Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs
In the ever-evolving landscape of urban development, Artificial Intelligence (AI) has emerged as a transformative force, reshaping how cities in India operate. This transformative journey is particularly evident in the realm of tender management, where the integration of AI in e-measurement monitoring seeks to redefine processes, eliminate human errors, and usher in a new era of transparency and efficiency. This strategic move aligns with the overarching goals of the Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs to streamline administrative processes and curb corruption.
The Smart Cities Mission: A Visionary Blueprint
NITI Aayog’s visionary stance on integrating AI into India’s Smart Cities Mission unfolds in a detailed discussion paper. The emphasis is not just on incorporating technology but on leveraging AI to reimagine public spaces, homes, and facilities. The collaborative efforts between NITI Aayog and the Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs set the stage for a technological revolution, promising enhanced accessibility, elevated safety measures, and substantial cost savings. The vision outlined in this blueprint aligns with the broader goal of creating intelligent, responsive urban ecosystems.
In tandem with this vision, AI’s role in predicting urban challenges comes to the forefront. The Ministry, in collaboration with AI, endeavours to anticipate crowd behaviour and potential disasters. The successful execution of the Kumbh Mela Experiment serves as a testament to the efficacy of AI in crowd management, fostering a safer and more responsive environment. This proactive approach aligns with the challenges posed by rapid urbanisation, reflecting a commitment to comprehensive and forward-thinking city management.
Ensuring Citizen Safety: A Paramount Goal
In the pursuit of making cities safer, AI becomes a formidable ally for law enforcement agencies. The implementation of the Automated Fingerprint Identification System (AFIS) marks a significant leap forward in quick and accurate perpetrator identification. The integration of smart cameras equipped with facial recognition capabilities enhances real-time surveillance, providing law enforcement with powerful tools to address potential threats swiftly. Moreover, the Ministry’s special focus on women’s safety underscores the commitment to leveraging AI technologies for the well-being of all citizens.
Integrated Command and Control Centre: The Urban Nerve Centre
Recognizing the pivotal role of data in the next generation of smart cities, the Ministry establishes the Integrated Command and Control Centre (ICCC) as the urban nerve centre. This strategic initiative streamlines city operations, offering real-time data-driven decisions and improved situational awareness. The seamless integration of various city departments exemplifies the collaborative dance between AI and the Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs, simplifying the complexities associated with managing a modern, bustling urban landscape.
Seamless Commuting: The Heartbeat of Urban Life
In the domain of transportation, AI emerges as a driving force behind efficient and seamless systems. Smart transportation solutions, infused with AI capabilities, optimise and automate tasks associated with complex transportation networks. Mysore’s success story with the Intelligent Transport System (ITS) showcases tangible improvements, including reduced accidents and increased punctuality. The integration of traffic management systems and smart parking solutions further transforms urban mobility, providing a blueprint for other cities to follow.
Accessible & Safer Health and Financial Services
AI’s transformative impact extends to critical sectors like healthcare and financial services. In healthcare, AI in surgical robots ensures higher precision in medical procedures, contributing to advancements in personalised healthcare. Early detection of diseases, facilitated by AI-powered systems, exemplifies a proactive approach to healthcare accessibility. Moreover, AI’s influence in enhancing the security of online financial services represents a significant stride, reducing vulnerability to fraud and scams in the digital realm.
Early Detection & Disaster Prevention: The AI Shield
Collaborative efforts between AI and the Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs extend to the realm of disaster prevention. Addressing climate change challenges, AI technologies, including Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR) in satellites, enhance disaster prediction capabilities. The Ministry’s disaster management initiatives find support in AI’s capabilities for early detection and prevention, serving as a shield to safeguard lives and critical infrastructure.
Want to know more, check this out: https://indiaai.gov.in/article/ai-fortifying-indian-cities-making-a-haven-for-citizens
The Viksit Bharat Sankalp Yatra
From Fields to Bytes: Modi’s Agri-Tech Leap
The Viksit Bharat Sankalp Yatra, the brainchild of Narendra Modi’s visionary leadership, has metamorphosed from a government initiative into a powerful Jan Andolan – a people’s movement. In PM Modi’s rajya, no one gets left behind—the Sankalp Yatra roars, a force of transformation, stretching the government’s arms wide to embrace all, rewriting the narrative of inclusivity in Indian history.
(Image Source: Twitter_NarendraModi)
The Viksit Bharat Yatra rests on the four Amrit pillars of ‘Viksit Bharat’ – India’s Nari Shakti, the potent force of the youth, the backbone of our nation, the Kisan, and the support for underprivileged families across India. In this limelight moment, Modi’s leadership shines brightly, guiding the nation towards a future where inclusivity and progress intertwine seamlessly.
‘Jai Jawan, Jai Kisan‘ – an anthem by Lal Bahadur Shastri, the former Prime Minister of India, celebrating the soldier and the farmer. In their toil, we find the roots of our nation’s prosperity and the very essence of our collective progress.
Unlocking a new era for Kisan of New India! Prime Minister Narendra Modi is spearheading a revolutionary movement, infusing agriculture with cutting-edge technology to empower our farmers. The Kisan Drone Yojana stands at the forefront of this visionary initiative, utilising artificial intelligence and drone technology to redefine the landscape of farming practices.
In an exciting development, the Prime Minister had launched the ‘Drone Kisan Yatra,’ flagging off 100 Kisan drones for pesticide spraying in various cities. This dynamic initiative, announced as part of the inclusive drone development in Budget 2022, is set to revolutionise farming practices towards a chemical-free future.
In a bold step, the Government of India (GOI) banned drone imports, emphasising a robust push for self-reliant drone manufacturing under the ‘Drone Shakti Scheme.’ This aligns with the larger vision of boosting ‘Made in India,’ marking a strategic move towards Atmanirbhar Bharat.
Kisan Drones, designed as autonomous tanks, are equipped with insecticides and nutrients. With an impressive capacity ranging from 5 to 10 kg, they efficiently apply pesticides to around one acre of land within a swift 15-minute timeframe. Furthermore, these drones are instrumental in transporting agricultural products to markets. But wait, there’s more! These drones not only redefine pesticide spraying but also swiftly transport agricultural treasures to diverse market destinations.
Drones are already being used in farming by farmers in Maharashtra and Rajasthan. The adoption is poised to expand, with farmers from various states across India expected to incorporate drones into their agricultural practices soon.
CHECK THIS OUT: TimesNow_Karnataka farmer kisses PM Modi’s photo on bus; says he will conquer the world.
As India propels into a new era of agricultural innovation with the groundbreaking Kisan Drone Yojana, Union Minister for Agriculture & Farmers Welfare, Shri Narendra Singh Tomar, highlighted significant strides that have been made in establishing infrastructure for Agricultural Technology Dissemination.
- At the district level, 713 Krishi Vigyan Kendras and 684 Agricultural Technology Management Agencies have been established.
- Employing various channels, such as Focused Publicity Campaigns, Kisan Call Centres, AgriClinics, and AgriBusiness Centres run by entrepreneurs, the aim is to effectively disseminate agricultural technologies among the farming community.
- Information outreach efforts encompass the organisation of Agri Fairs and exhibitions, as well as the strategic use of technology platforms like the Kisan SMS Portal.
The paramount goal is to empower farmers by delivering information through a multitude of channels, thereby amplifying accessibility and outreach.
Additionally, in a significant move to enhance the efficiency and outreach of the Pradhan Mantri Kisan Samman Nidhi (PM-KISAN) Scheme, Union Minister of State for Agriculture, Shri Kailash Choudhary, has launched the first AI Chatbot integrated with the scheme.In 2019, the PM-KISAN scheme, upon its launch, disbursed over Rs. 2.61 Lakhs Crores to more than 11 Crore farmers, playing a pivotal role in providing income support to landholder farmer families nationwide.
This marks a significant stride, as it represents the inaugural integration of an AI Chatbot with a major flagship scheme of the Union government. The AI Chatbot is designed to elevate the efficiency and outreach of the PM-KISAN scheme, providing farmers with prompt and accurate responses to their inquiries.
Its scope extends beyond information dissemination, offering a mechanism to address grievances effectively. It was developed in collaboration with the EKstep foundation and Bhashini, this advanced technology aims to empower farmers through a user-friendly and accessible platform. The mobile application is equipped with multilingual support, ensuring inclusivity across diverse linguistic preferences.
In addition to this impressive background, the government has further fortified accessibility by introducing a mobile application with face authentication-based e-KYC, ensuring even remote farmers can seamlessly embrace modern technology.
Conclusion
In the tapestry of India’s future, the threads of Viksit Bharat, Kisan Drone Yojana, and INDIAai intertwine seamlessly, woven by the visionary leadership of Prime Minister Modi. The Viksit Bharat Yatra, rooted in inclusivity, converges with the Kisan Drone Yojana’s tech-infused agricultural revolution and the nationwide impact of INDIAai. This trinity encapsulates India’s commitment to holistic progress, where leadership, innovation, and inclusivity coalesce. As India strides confidently into a future shaped by AI, these initiatives stand as beacons of transformation, propelling the nation towards a harmonious era where progress is not only inevitable but inclusive and sustainable.
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Kisan Drones. (n.d.). Drishti IAS. https://www.drishtiias.com/daily-news-analysis/kisan-drones-1/print_manually
Yadav, O. (2023, December 4). Kisan Drone yojana 2023 Subsidy on Drones. PM Government Scheme – Sarkari Yojana. https://www.pmgovtscheme.com/kisan-drone-yojana/
Use of artificial intelligence in agriculture. (n.d.). https://pib.gov.in/newsite/PrintRelease.aspx?relid=190957
Union Minister of state for Agriculture and Farmers Welfare, Shri Kailash Choudhary Launches AI Chatbot for PM-KISAN Scheme today. (n.d.). https://pib.gov.in/PressReleasePage.aspx?PRID=1959461
Wikipedia contributors. (2023b, December 9). INDIAai. Wikipedia. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/INDIAai