Union minister of road transport and highways Nitin Gadkari proposed the use of artificial intelligence (AI) to check traffic rules violations. While addressing the 12th edition of the Traffic InfraTech Expo on Thursday, Gadkari rolled out the plan to upgrade toll collection methods, including the use of AI in imposing penalties.
“He spoke about new approaches to law enforcement using technology...efforts to identify traffic violations through AI and other innovative methods, allowing authorities to enforce penalties accurately,” a press release by the ministry stated.
Recently, Nvidia CEO Jensen Huang mentioned that India can lead the world not just in information technology (IT) but in AI too.
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How Indian Government is Embracing AI?
The minister also highlighted the use of advanced engineering solutions, enforcement of laws, and the adoption of cutting-edge technologies like AI to curb road accidents. He also said a committee of experts from the private sector will be set up soon to partner with the government on developing technological solutions to ensure road safety.
The government’s emphasis on AI adoption in transportation is significant given the rapid urbanisation and population growth in the country. According to a report titled “Traveltech 2.0: The Next Phase of Digitally Empowering the Indian Traveler”, AI can help in optimising schedules, predicting demand and implementing predictive maintenance. It will also help transit authorities to improve efficiency while ensuring passenger safety and comfort.
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The report by the internet and mobile association of India (IAMAI) and Grant Thornton Bharat also pointed out how AI-powered solutions can enhance accessibility for all passengers, including people with disabilities.
A Google report titled “An AI Opportunity Agenda for India” highlighted that AI use by the Indian government can revolutionise the delivery of welfare services, including AI-enabled personalisation of public services to suit the individual needs of underserved citizens. The report mentioned that the government will be required to build necessary AI expertise to ensure effective usage.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi Calls India to Lead the World in AI
Moreover, time and again Prime Minister Narendra Modi has spoken about India leading the world in AI and has highlighted the government’s ‘India AI Mission’. The IndiaAI Mission was launched by the government in March this year with the union cabinet allocating Rs 10,372 crore to build AI infrastructure.
Speaking at the International Telecommunication Union-World Telecommunication Standardisation Assembly (WTSA), Modi emphasised the use of AI should be coupled with ethical usage. With more use of technology in the hyper-connected world where boundaries of the countries are blurred, there’s a need for global standards for ethical AI and data privacy.
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