India Leads Global Call for Ethical AI at UN

New York: India has emphasized the need for the responsible and ethical use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) at the United Nations. Speaking at a UNGA panel discussion on the UN-UNIS 2025 initiative at the UN headquarters in New York, India’s Permanent Representative to the United Nations, P. Harish, reiterated the country's commitment to making AI accessible to all.

Harish highlighted India’s efforts in integrating AI for good governance and developmental practices. He pointed out that AI serves as a bridge to accelerate technological progress and drive sustainable growth. India has been leveraging AI to achieve its economic and developmental objectives, demonstrating its potential to address various societal challenges.

In a social media post on X, the Permanent Mission of India to the UN shared a video clip of Harish’s address. During his remarks, Harish showcased prominent examples like India’s national biometric system and financial inclusion initiatives that exemplify AI's role in promoting inclusive development.

“We have integrated AI into our national systems in ways that help bridge the digital divide within and between nations,” Harish stated. “In this new era, no one should be left behind in the digital transformation.” He illustrated how even street vendors in cities like Delhi and Mumbai are now empowered to accept digital payments using AI-powered financial technologies, eliminating the need to wait for cash transactions.

India’s National AI Mission, focused on promoting responsible AI development, has been instrumental in ensuring equitable technological access. Harish underscored that AI innovation in the country is inclusive, catering to both urban and rural communities.

Furthermore, India has developed numerous digital governance tools in open-source formats. The source codes of these tools are publicly available, ensuring transparency and encouraging global collaboration.

“AI should be accessible to all,” Harish remarked. “Globally, we cannot afford to leave any nation behind in the digital and AI era.” He advocated for international cooperation to establish ethical AI frameworks that ensure the technology benefits humanity as a whole.

India’s emphasis on AI accessibility and responsible usage has positioned the nation as a leader in fostering digital inclusivity. The country’s approach aligns with the UN’s goals of leveraging AI for sustainable development and equitable growth.

Report by Saswat Tiwari