Government Establishes Research Team to Explore AI Integration in India's Military Sector
In a significant move towards harnessing the potential of Artificial Intelligence (AI), the Department of Defence Production has established a task force. This task force, headed by Tata Sons Chairman N Chandrasekaran, aims to explore the strategic implications of AI in a national security perspective, within a global context.
The task force comprises a diverse group of stakeholders, including representatives from the defence ministry, the Indian Space Research Organisation, the Atomic Energy Commission, and Bharat Electronics Ltd. The task force also includes academics from esteemed institutions such as the Indian Institute of Science-Bengaluru, IIT Mumbai, and IIT Chennai. Furthermore, the Indian Army, Indian Navy, and Indian Airforce will also be represented.
The primary objective of this task force is twofold. Firstly, to study the potential of AI in providing military superiority. Secondly, to drive technology-driven economic growth. AI is considered a dual use technology, capable of fueling economic growth while also offering potential for military advantage.
In his Budget speech, Finance Minister Arun Jaitley announced a mission on cyber physical systems to support the establishment of centres of excellence in research, training, and skilling in areas like robotics, artificial intelligence, digital manufacturing, big data analysis, quantum communication, and internet of things. This national program, led by Niti Aayog, aims to direct government efforts in the field of artificial intelligence, including research and development of its applications.
The future progress of AI has the potential to have a transformative impact on national security. As India boasts a strong talent pool of engineers, it is crucial to leverage this resource in AI studies. The task force's formation is an important step towards realising this potential and securing India's position in the global AI race.
