In a historic move, the Global Partnership on Artificial Intelligence (GPAI), comprising 29 member countries, has unanimously embraced the New Delhi Declaration. This landmark agreement, led by India, underscores the urgent need to address the risks associated with the development and deployment of advanced AI systems while promoting equitable access to vital resources for AI innovation.
The declaration acknowledges the swift advancements in AI systems with the potential for substantial economic growth. However, it also raises critical concerns, including the spread of misinformation, unemployment, lack of transparency and fairness, protection of intellectual property and personal data, and potential threats to human rights and democratic values.
India's collaborative approach towards building AI systems takes center stage in this achievement, aligning with its digital public infrastructure (DPI) model. As the Lead Chair for 2024, India aims to foster a global partnership among GPAI members by supporting projects that ensure equitable access to essential resources for AI research and innovation.
Minister of State for Electronics and IT, Rajeev Chandrasekhar, highlighted the declaration's intent to make AI benefits inclusive and globally accessible, especially for countries in the Global South. This commitment was sealed after a comprehensive five-hour ministerial deliberation.
The declaration emphasizes the necessity of a global AI framework grounded in democratic values and human rights. It seeks to safeguard dignity, well-being, personal data, intellectual property rights, privacy, and security while encouraging innovation. The GPAI, led primarily by democratic nations, adopts a risk-based approach to AI, excluding major tech superpower China from its multilateral grouping.
Notably, this gathering marked the first meeting of GPAI members since the emergence of generative AI platforms like ChatGPT and Google Bard, catapulting AI conversations into the mainstream. The declaration acknowledges the pivotal role GPAI members will play in addressing contemporary AI issues, including generative AI, through applied projects aimed at solving societal problems and global challenges.
In a move reflecting India's priorities, GPAI members also designated AI innovation in the agriculture sector as a new thematic priority. The declaration recognizes the importance of trustworthy AI applications in sustainable food production systems, resilient agricultural practices, climate change adaptation, and inclusive empowerment of workers in the agricultural supply chain.
Moreover, the GPAI commits to pursuing a diverse membership, with a focus on low and middle-income countries. Senegal, a current member, has been elevated to the steering committee, reinforcing the alliance's commitment to broad expertise and shared values.
In conclusion, the adoption of the New Delhi Declaration by GPAI marks a significant stride towards fostering inclusive, ethical, and responsible AI on a global scale. As the world grapples with the transformative power of AI, this collaborative effort sets a precedent for a future where the benefits of AI are harnessed responsibly and equitably for the betterment of all nations.
