Promoting ‘Responsible AI’ In India: A Sustainable Approach to Legal and Ethical Issues

The article examines the increasing adoption of Artificial Intelligence (AI) across various sectors in India, driven by its tech-savvy population and high internet penetration, while also noting the current absence of a specific AI regulatory framework. It critically assesses ethical concerns in the Indian context, compares regulatory approaches in other Asian countries, and evaluates India’s policies against the UN’s directives and ethical principles for AI regulation. The paper underscores the importance of responsible AI development and deployment, aligning with UN principles that prioritise human rights, safety, fairness, transparency, accountability, and human oversight. Furthermore, it examines the potential of AI to contribute to sustainability, referencing the UN Sustainable Development Goals (such as SDGs 9, 10 and 17), while also acknowledging the environmental impact of AI technologies. The article concludes by advocating for a robust AI framework in India that safeguards individual liberties and promotes societal well-being in line with global ethical standards, emphasizing the importance of international collaboration, public engagement, and a commitment to human rights.