The 1st Round Table Talk on Artificial Intelligence (AI) took place at the Directorate of Science & Technology, gathering experts and officials to discuss the future of AI in Nagaland.
Principal Secretary of Science & Technology, I Himato Zhimomi, in his opening statement stated, “I am hopeful that by the end of this round table talk, we will be able to bring out a concrete solution in this AI platform.” He emphasized the dual nature of AI, remarking, “The user needs to know how best we can use and utilize it in the private as well as in the government sector,” and added, “We should bring out solutions to safeguard it, because this can be used for good or for worse.”
Zhimomi urged, “It is crucial for us to discuss how AI is going to impact our society and how it will be used by every single person in both sectors.” He also encouraged young minds to come together, saying, “I challenge you to bring everyone on board who is really interested in this platform,” highlighting the potential of AI to change society.
NCS Ex-Officio Director & Joint Secretary, Science & Technology, Zeneikhono Vimero, praised the initiative, stating, “This Round Table Talk under the Nagaland Science Mission 2024 is the brainchild of our Principal Secretary.” She elaborated on the mission’s vision, saying, “This aligns with the India AI mission for the next five years,” noting that India is set for advancements in AI.
The technical session featured insights from resource persons. Prof Samarendra Dandapat from IIT Guwahati spoke on “Emerging AI Tools in India,” while Dr Anuja Pandey from the All India Management Association discussed “Applications of AI in the Indian Context & Future Prospects.” Ajit Kumar Ranjan, IAS, shared his experiences with the “Wokha Saathi: AI-Powered Chatbot,” providing a case study.
The event concluded with a Round Table Discussion moderated by Kekuneil Ltu and Onongoto Soleho, encouraging engagement among participants on the implications of AI for Nagaland’s future.
“The whole exercise was carried out to find ways for the government to use AI effectively and to promote AI for providing better services to its citizens while creating awareness about AI and understanding the data privacy and safety issues surrounding it,” said one of the attendees.
The significance of the 1st Round Table Talk on AI in Kohima cannot be overstated. As technology continues to advance, discussions like these are essential for understanding how AI can be integrated into various sectors. Engaging stakeholders from different fields helps ensure that the development of AI is aligned with the needs of the community while addressing potential risks. Such forums can lead the way for informed decisions that benefit society as a whole.