Data owners must be aware of the purpose of collecting it: PM Modi tells Bill Gates

PM Narendra Modi and Microsoft's Bill Gates in New Delhi.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has advocated for citizens contributing towards quality data and also monetising the sharing of non-personal data for research and other purposes.

This comes at a time when the Indian government has approved the IndiaAI program, a component of which is for the non-personal data collection/disemmination platform for the benefit of startups and academia.

Any data which does not contain characteristics, traits or attributes of identity, which can be used to identify an individual, is categorised as non-personal data.

In a conversation with Microsoft's former CEO Bill Gates, released on March 29, Modi firstly said that the general population should be educated on the importance of contributing quality data, and that if someone aims to monetise their data through agreements, then, that should be allowed.

"Firstly we need to educate the general population on the importance of contributing to quality data emphasising the need for both precision and clarity. Data owners must be informed about the intentions behind data request," PM Modi told Gates in a wide-ranging conversation on technology, energy, and governance.

"If the request aims to monetise the data through agreements, consent should be given. The priority should be given for research. It’s essential to keep the cost of research data manageable to avoid making research expensive," he added.

Under IndiaAI, the government will launch a non-personal data platform, where data providers can set pricing models, such as one-time purchases, subscriptions or licensing fees, based on the value and uniqueness of the datasets. The platform is aimed at benefiting entrepreneurs, startups and for R&D purposes.

Also read: Decoding IndiaAI: Inside India's Rs 10,372-crore plan to boost AI infrastructure

PM Modi also highlighted the significant risk of misuse associated with powerful technology lacking proper training. He emphasised on the importance of implementing measures to address this concern, such as introducing clear watermarks on AI-generated content to prevent misinformation.

Additionally, he stressed the need for awareness regarding the origins of deepfake technology, especially in a diverse and democratic country like India where misuse could lead to widespread repercussions.

PM Modi underscored the importance of establishing guidelines for the ethical use of AI and cautioned against its misuse for personal entertainment rather than meaningful contributions.

In a 40-minute conversation, Modi and Gates engaged in other discussions at the PM's residence, covering topics from AI to digital public infrastructure and efforts to combat climate change.

During the conversation, Gates commended Indians for their rapid adoption of technology and for leading the way in this regard.

Also read: AI misused when people aren’t trained, PM Modi tell Bill Gates