Nandan Nilekani's Vision: AI for Human Betterment in India

Nandan Nilekani, the Infosys co-founder and non-executive chairman, has voiced his vision for artificial intelligence (AI) as a tool for societal good. He proposes utilizing AI to address critical issues in healthcare and education, benefiting a billion people. Despite the potential concentration of wealth and power that AI might bring, Nilekani emphasizes redirecting technology for human betterment.

He underscored the importance of avoiding a costly race in AI investment, as seen in Western economies and China, urging India instead to focus on addressing real-world problems efficiently. Though AI might raise concerns about job displacement and promote ideas like universal basic income (UBI), Nilekani dismisses such dystopian views, advocating for AI as a means to enhance human potential.

As the mind behind successful projects like Aadhar and UPI, Nilekani stresses the need for innovation tailored to Indian conditions, highlighting the lessons from these initiatives. By embracing frugality and innovative simplicity, he believes India can continue making strides in technology that empowers its vast population.

(With inputs from agencies.)