New AI-Driven Leadership for BARC, Revolutionary Vision AI Model for Public Safety, Tech Titans invest big in India’s AI future and more
The AI4India Weekly #5
Welcome to the 5th Edition of The AI4India Weekly!
In this edition, we take a look at how AI4India, in collaboration with Paralaxiom Technologies, has introduced a groundbreaking Vision AI model for public safety along with the appointment of Shashi Shekar Vempati, the co-founder of DeepTech4India Foundation, as the Professional Director at BARC marking an AI-based approach . We also look into interesting developments across the world of Artificial Intelligence in India. From Tech Titans like Amazon and Microsoft making significant investments in India's AI sector to the Prime Minister Modi highlighting India's leadership in AI and green energy at the G7 Summit, we cover the top AI news of the week.
Additionally, MIT's Ramesh Raskar is pioneering AI and IoT solutions at the Kumbh Mela. India's journey towards CleanTech AI leadership continues, addressing urban challenges through innovative solutions. Join us as we explore these transformative developments shaping India's AI landscape and global impact.
Revolutionizing Public Safety: AI4India's Vision AI Model
AI4India.org, in collaboration with Paralaxiom Technologies, is set to transform public safety with a groundbreaking Vision AI model. This innovative technology will evaluate real-time CCTV camera feeds, alerting authorities to any abnormal activities. Addressing the gaps in current public safety measures, the model is being trained on diverse Indian conditions, including demographics, attire, vehicles, and landscapes.
Shashi Shekhar Vempati, Co-Founder of DeepTech4Bharat Foundation, emphasized AI4India’s mission to develop AI solutions for the public good, encouraging developers and data owners to join this initiative. Co-Founder Alok Agrawal highlighted the model’s potential to significantly enhance law enforcement capabilities by providing real-time alerts. Kshitij Sharma, CEO of Paralaxiom Technologies, urged data owners with access to public video footage to partner in this mission to make India safer.
New AI-Driven Leadership at BARC: Shashi Shekhar Vempati Joins as Professional Director
Shashi Shekhar Vempati has recently joined BARC (Broadcast Audience Research Council) as Professional Director, bringing with him extensive expertise in both media and artificial intelligence (AI). Shashi Sinha, BARC Chairman highlighted how Vempati’s expertise in the field of AI along with his years of experience will be able to offer a lot to table. His appointment comes at a pivotal time for BARC, which plays a crucial role in measuring television audience ratings in India. Vempati's leadership is expected to enhance transparency and efficiency in audience measurement, aligning with industry standards and adapting to evolving media consumption patterns.
Tech Titans Invest Big in India's AI Future
Amazon and Microsoft are making significant investments in India's artificial intelligence (AI) sector, with the country offering incentives to attract tech companies. Microsoft has committed around $3.7 billion to build data centers in Telangana, aimed at adding 660 megawatts of IT capacity, while Amazon plans to invest $12.7 billion in cloud infrastructure by the end of the decade. Puneet Chandok, Microsoft's president for India and South Asia, highlighted India's potential as a leading market for tech innovation.
These investments follow recent reports that Microsoft and Amazon have allocated $40 billion for AI infrastructure projects this year. Additionally, chipmaker Nvidia noted increasing demand for its products as companies transition from traditional data centers to "AI factories." Research shows that AI is gaining popularity among CFOs, with 63% reporting reduced need for lower-skill workers and 58% indicating a demand for more analytically skilled employees. As AI applications evolve, the needs of companies will continue to change, showcasing AI's vast potential. Read more.
India's AI and Green Energy Vision Shines at G7 Summit
Prime Minister Narendra Modi recently championed India's leadership in AI and energy at the G7 Summit in Italy, despite India not being a G7 member. Engaging in Outreach sessions on AI, energy, Africa, and the Mediterranean, Modi emphasized India's commitment to making AI transparent, fair, secure, accessible, and responsible. He highlighted India’s National Strategy on Artificial Intelligence and the launch of the AI Mission, driven by the mantra "AI for All." Modi also stressed the importance of international cooperation and governance in AI, advocating for technology to be used inclusively and responsibly. Read more.
AI Innovation at Kumbh Mela: Transforming Tradition with Technology
Ramesh Raskar, MIT associate professor and leader of the MIT Media Lab’s Camera Culture research group, is calling on global AI and ML experts to join the pioneering Kumbh Mela project. This initiative seeks to tackle the immense logistical challenges of the world's largest religious gathering, encompassing healthcare access, crowd management, sanitation, and transportation. Raskar champions the integration of AI, machine learning, and IoT to enhance safety and efficiency, envisioning these technologies as pivotal in revolutionizing large-scale events.
Since 2015, Raskar has collaborated with local innovators and civic groups in Nashik, his hometown, to develop high-tech and low-tech solutions. These innovations include real-time crowd monitoring apps, dynamic data analytics for transport and accommodation, and systems to ensure quality food supply. The initiative, known as KumbhaThon, underscores the potential of technology to mitigate challenges historically faced by attendees, underscoring Raskar's commitment to leveraging innovation for positive societal impact. Read more.
India's Path to CleanTech AI Leadership
India is forging ahead in CleanTech AI, driven by its tech-savvy population, entrepreneurial spirit, and strong government support. Initiatives like the Smart Cities Mission and the National Clean Air Programme (NCAP) demonstrate India's commitment to leveraging AI for environmental sustainability. The integration of AI into these efforts, guided by national strategies from institutions like NITI Aayog, underscores India's strategic focus on pioneering solutions that address urban and environmental challenges.
With a robust tech ecosystem and a skilled workforce proficient in AI and data analytics, India is innovating in waste management, energy efficiency, and pollution control through AI-driven solutions. Collaborations between academia, industry, and government are crucial in advancing scalable technologies that promote sustainable development.
However, challenges such as infrastructure limitations and regulatory frameworks need to be addressed to fully harness India's potential in AI-driven CleanTech. Overcoming these obstacles will empower India to lead global efforts in combating climate change and achieving environmental sustainability, setting new benchmarks in CleanTech innovation for the world. Read more.
NOTE : The views expressed by the authors are their own. AI4India as a forum does not endorse any comments on specific brands, products, platforms or companies.
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