New Delhi: Aiming to increase penetration of artificial intelligence in all significant fields like agriculture, health, education and even law, the Centre has directed Niti Aayog to set up a taskforce which will come up with a roadmap for extending the technology in all sectors. The taskforce may be formed within a week’s time.
Highly-placed sources said that the Centre is keen to increase the usage of artificial intelligence in these fields as is the norm in all major economies like the US and China.
The Prime Minister’s Office (PMO), sources added, is apparently not satisfied with the extent of usage of artificial intelligence in various fields across the official spectrum. In this light, the government think-tank has now been asked to think of ways of increasing its penetration.
It is reliably learnt that the task force, which is likely to be headed by Niti Aayog vice chairman Rajiv Kumar, may be formed in a week’s time. It will have top officials from information technology, science & technology, and several other significant ministries, as members.
Having promised to double farmers’ income by 2022, the Centre is hoping that with the help of artificial intelligence, this objective can be achieved, though some smart agricultural practices could also be used for achieving this objective.
Highly placed sources said that with the help of artificial intelligence, crop production can be improved and land records can also be better digitised.
Apart from agriculture, sources added that best practices in artificial intelligence can also help in reducing pendency in courts and proper maintenance of health records.
Finance minister Arun Jaitley had announced in the Union Budget for 2018-19 that Niti Aayog will initiate a national programme to direct efforts in the area of artificial intelligence, including research and development of its applications.
