The Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) has taken a significant step towards shaping the future of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Big Data in the telecommunication sector. In its recent release of recommendations titled ‘Leveraging Artificial Intelligence and Big Data in Telecommunication Sector’, TRAI highlights the urgent need for a comprehensive regulatory framework to govern the use of AI across sectors, aiming to foster responsible AI development and protect consumers’ interests.
TRAI’s Recommendations:
The primary focus of TRAI’s recommendations lies in establishing a dedicated statutory body, the Artificial Intelligence and Data Authority of India (AIDAI), responsible for overseeing the development and regulation of AI use cases across various sectors, including telecommunication.
Regulatory Framework for Responsible AI:
TRAI suggests adopting a regulatory framework that applies uniformly across sectors to ensure the responsible use of AI in India. The framework will categorise AI use cases based on risk, with high-risk applications directly impacting humans subject to legally binding obligations. TRAI aims to balance innovation and consumer safety by adopting this risk-based approach.
Role of AIDAI:
The proposed AIDAI will act as the custodian of responsible AI development and regulation in the country. It will have the authority to frame regulations on AI, define principles of responsible AI, and guide the application of these principles throughout the AI lifecycle – from design to deployment. AIDAI will also play a crucial role in developing model AI Governance Frameworks and Ethical Codes for various sectors, encouraging organisations to adopt AI responsibly.
Multi-Stakeholder Body (MSB):
To ensure a collaborative and consultative approach, TRAI recommends the establishment of a Multi-Stakeholder Body (MSB). The MSB will act as an advisory body to AIDAI, bringing together experts from different ministries, industry leaders, legal experts, cyber experts, academia, and research institutes. This inclusive approach aims to address the complex challenges posed by AI and fosters a more balanced and informed decision-making process.
Global Collaboration and Standards:
Recognising the global impact of AI, TRAI advocates for India’s active collaboration with international agencies and other countries to shape global AI standards and governance structures. By participating in international forums, India can contribute to developing responsible AI practices worldwide and ensure that AI development aligns with ethical and human-centric principles.
AI Adoption in the Telecom Sector:
TRAI recommends that the Department of Telecommunications (DoT) collaborate with Access Service Providers to enhance their capabilities using AI/ML and other emerging technologies. These technologies can analyse real-time data on mobile connections to verify compliance with regulatory limits. AI/ML tools should also be deployed in DoT’s Telecom Security Operation Centre (TSOC) to generate alerts and minimise network security threats.
Skill Development and Education:
To address the growing demand for skilled AI professionals, TRAI proposes collaborating with the Department of Telecommunications (DoT), the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY), and the Ministry of Education. A committee will be formed to assess the availability and future requirements of AI/ML professionals and devise technical programs to meet these demands. The committee will also explore ways to foster industry-academia collaboration, design AI-related curricula, and facilitate collaborative research projects.
Creating AI Infrastructure and Experimental Campuses:
TRAI recommends establishing a Centre of Excellence for Artificial Intelligence (CoE-AI) in each State/UT to facilitate the development and demonstration of technological capabilities. These centres will provide high-bandwidth internet, computational facilities, and access to data sets for training AI models. The CoE-AIs will also serve as platforms for industry-academia partnerships, promoting research and scalable solutions in diverse sectors like agriculture, healthcare, education, smart cities, and more.
Challenge-based Programs and Bounty Programs:
TRAI suggests using the ‘Digital Communication Innovation Square (DCIS)’ scheme to support startups and organisations holding AI/ML events such as challenge and bounty programs. These initiatives allow participants to demonstrate innovative ideas, collaborate with stakeholders, and improve their solutions/products.
Incorporating Ethics in AI:
TRAI places a strong emphasis on incorporating ethics in AI development and use. It proposes mandating a course on the Ethical Use of AI in technical and non-technical institutes. Moreover, TRAI recommends offering courses on the Ethical Use of AI and Basic Concepts of AI for government officers and employees to ensure that AI deployment adheres to ethical principles.
Coordinating with Other Ministries:
TRAI’s recommendations encourage collaboration between the Department of Telecommunications and various sectoral ministries and departments. The objective is to promote AI use cases across different sectors by funding projects from respective ministries or departmental budgets.
The Road Ahead:
TRAI’s comprehensive recommendations mark a crucial milestone in shaping AI’s future in India’s telecommunication sector. India can harness AI’s transformative potential by establishing AIDAI and adopting responsible AI practices while safeguarding its citizens’ interests. As AI evolves, collaboration between various stakeholders and global partners will play a pivotal role in creating a sustainable and ethical AI ecosystem.
