The government of India has proposed the creation of a dedicated artificial intelligence (AI) Governance Board to evaluate and approve AI applications. This board will ensure that AI initiatives comply with established guidelines outlined in both national and international legal frameworks.
This recommendation was introduced as part of the Competency Framework for AI for public sector officials on March 6, during the official launch of AIKosha and the AI Compute Portal by the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY).
The Competency Framework for AI for Public Sector Officials outlines several key goals and objectives. These include providing a foundational understanding of AI, defining necessary competencies for public sector officials, enhancing awareness of emerging technologies, identifying integration opportunities for improved service delivery, enabling informed policymaking, developing targeted training programs, and establishing a structured approach to career progression.According to the AI competency framework, the board could play a key role in overseeing and guiding AI projects throughout their lifecycle. It will offer detailed recommendations, helping initiatives not only meet technical standards but also address societal concerns and ethical considerations.
Functioning alongside the competency framework, the AI Governance Board is expected to be instrumental in ensuring that AI applications are deployed in a responsible and ethical manner. Its primary role will be to review and approve AI projects, ensuring adherence to legal requirements at both domestic and international levels. Through this oversight, the board aims to minimise risks and promote the use of AI for societal benefit.
