India, the largest democracy in the world, has consistently endeavored to provide effective governance for its citizens. With a staggering 700 million internet users, 1.21 billion phone users, and 1.26 billion Aadhar users, the country is on the verge of the AI revolution. Moreover, India offers some of the most affordable internet services worldwide, while its thriving IT industry ensures a steady supply of skilled labor backed by Stanford’s AI Index, 2023.
India has already achieved significant transparency and efficiency in its systems with the help of e-governance. Now, the integration of AI is bringing a revolutionary change in the methods and processes of governance. Prime Minister Narendra Modi has called for the evolution of technology rooted in Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas, and Sabka Prayas. With this vision, the Indian government is making significant strides in using AI to improve governance from monitoring rural drinking water supply to eliminating leakages in direct benefit programs.
While AI technology is a double-edged sword, safeguards against misuse are essential for ensuring AI’s symbiosis with humanity. Therefore, NITI Aayog’s “Towards Responsible AI for All” strategy lays principles for AI in India, adapting global initiatives to the local legal and regulatory circumstances. In this context, this article highlights some remarkable initiatives that showcase how responsible AI is being used for good governance in India.
During the COVID-19 pandemic, MyGov in partnership with the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY), launched an AI-enabled Corona Helpdesk to provide citizens with accurate information and resources to combat the crisis effectively. It also launched an AI Virtual Assistant to combat the spread of misinformation during the pandemic, providing citizens with credible information.
The Indian government employs AI algorithms to predict agricultural yields, empowering farmers with informed decisions, reducing losses, and improving financial well-being. The e-NAM platform, established in 2016, leverages AI and technology to create a unified national market, eliminating middlemen and ensuring fair prices for farmers selling directly to consumers nationwide.
In India’s underserved regions, AI aids in diagnosing and treating illnesses. For instance, AI-powered tools diagnose tuberculosis in areas lacking traditional diagnostic resources. The 2019-launched eSanjeevani scheme offers remote healthcare through video consultations. Available in Hindi, English, and regional languages, it’s cost-free for patients. As of 2021, the service conducted over 1.5 million tele-consultations in 30+ states and union territories, promoting social equity and healthcare accessibility. Another prominent illustration lies in the government’s Ayushman Bharat Yojana, the world’s largest government-funded program where AI-driven algorithms analyze health data to identify beneficiaries and allocate resources for healthcare services efficiently.
Additionally, AI-based programs like the Diksha portal provide digital education to public school students nationwide, offering personalized learning experiences and access to quality resources. The Eklavya Model Residential Schools (EMRS) have also been revamped to provide individualized learning, AI teaching aids, and digital materials to tribal children across 598 EMRS.
Moreover, the Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) program employs AI-powered data analytics to eliminate leakages and ensure that subsidies and welfare benefits reach the intended recipients directly. This targeted approach not only minimizes corruption but also uplifts marginalized communities by providing them with timely and adequate support.
Various state governments have also actively embraced AI applications. Punjab Agri Export Corporation employs AI for superior seed potato quality, enhancing agricultural output. Tamil Nadu e-Governance Agency introduced an AI-based Cataract Screening App, revolutionizing healthcare accessibility. Andhra Pradesh Government, in collaboration with Pensions, employs AI for a real-time beneficiary identification system, streamlining social welfare schemes. Uttar Pradesh partners with Staqu for an AI Video Surveillance Platform, reinforcing prison security. Telangana’s Emerging Technology Division employs drones for timely healthcare supply delivery in remote areas. Andhra Pradesh Transmission Corporation utilizes AI for accurate energy demand forecasting, optimizing resource allocation, and efficient energy distribution.
All these initiatives reflect India’s dedication to using AI for good governance. From healthcare to agriculture, AI is revolutionizing governance, paving the way for a more efficient, inclusive, and technologically advanced India. This journey marks a significant milestone in India’s technological advancement towards a brighter future. The recent efforts in this direction show that India is laying the foundation for a more inclusive, equitable, and efficient governance framework by integrating AI into its policies.
Vidhan Bharat 
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