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| Prime Minister Narendra Modi at the Global Partnership on AI Summit 2023. |
Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday inaugurated the Global Partnership on Artificial Intelligence (GPAI) Summit at Bharat Mandapam in New Delhi, where he emphasized the negative impacts of AI. Although it is a powerful tool for global development, it can also play a destructive role. He called on countries to create a framework for ethical AI use immediately.
During the summit, PM Modi expressed concerns about the use of deepfakes to spread misinformation or for malicious purposes. He highlighted the positive impacts of AI but also stressed the need to address its negative impacts. Deepfake poses a challenge for the world and the potential use of AI by terrorist organizations poses a significant threat to global security. He emphasized the importance of planning to tackle these issues.
In addition, PM Modi emphasized the responsibility of each nation to use AI ethically. He interacted with industry leaders in AI and discussed the GPAI Summit, urging countries to exercise caution in using AI.
India is a major player in AI: PM Modi
PM Modi highlighted India’s role as a major player in AI talent and ideas. The government has developed policies and programs inspired by the spirit of “AI for All.” India aims to leverage the capabilities of AI for social development and inclusive growth. The country is committed to the responsible and ethical use of AI.
PM Modi also mentioned the recently launched AI agriculture chatbot, which assists farmers in various aspects of farming. He highlighted the use of AI in healthcare and achieving Sustainable Development Goals. He spoke about the National Program on Artificial Intelligence and the upcoming AI Mission, which aims to establish AI’s computing powers.
The Prime Minister emphasized the transformative nature of AI and the need to make it more transparent. He suggested using AI to make digital services available in local languages to increase digital inclusion. He also proposed using AI to revive endangered languages, such as Sanskrit, and to preserve Vedic mathematics.
India has been actively contributing to GPAI since June 2020, engaging in initiatives to promote the development, deployment, and adoption of open, safe, secure, and accountable AI.
About GPAI Summit
GPAI is a multi-stakeholder initiative with 29 member countries. It aims to bridge the gap between theoretical AI research and practical applications by supporting cutting-edge research and activities. India is the lead chair of GPAI in 2024 and is hosting the Annual GPAI Summit from December 12-14.
The summit will feature participation from over 50 GPAI experts and 150+ speakers from different countries. Top AI industry leaders, including Intel, Reliance Jio, Google, Meta, AWS, Yotta, Netweb, Paytm, and Bhashini, will also participate in various events.
PM Modi expressed his happiness that India will chair the summit next year, considering the ongoing global debate on AI. GPAI was developed within the G7 and launched in June 2020 with 15 members.
India is a founding member of GPAI, having joined in June 2020. The third Annual GPAI Summit was held in Tokyo, Japan, in November 2022, with participation from senior government leaders from 24 countries and AI leaders from India, the European Union (EU), and other multilateral organizations.
Vietnam ranks 96th in global talent competitiveness index
Vietnam ranks 96 out of 132 countries on the 2020 Global Talent Competitiveness Index (GTCI), down four positions compared to last year and nine positions in 2018.
Hai Phong Restaurants & Dining
When in Hai Phong, travellers should check out these two dining spots: Truc Lam and Maxim’s Restaurant and Bar. Those who want to get a taste of the best Vietnamese dishes should go to Truc Lam, or ‘Bamboo Forest.’ The name of the restaurant was based on a Chinese legend about travellers who lost their way in the woods. Truc Lam is known for serving traditional Vietnamese dishes, though there are also special tredats (such as Norwegian salmon and New Zealand beef) imported on several occasions. All meals are served on big plates. Aside from the earthenware, the pottery that lines the shelves in the restaurant is also oversized. Both locals and expats dine here. Those who want to enjoy Western meals while in Hai Phong should visit Maxim’s Restaurant and Bar. The menu features Vietnamese dishes, but there are also many Western favourites which are given a Vietnamese spin, such as pizza, sandwiches and steaks. The interiors add to the Western feel: the place is like a diner, with its coffee-shop arrangement and linen tablecloths. Breakfast here is highly recommended.
Ha Long Bay Shopping
Though there are limited options for shopping in Halong Bay, what is actually available can be very interesting. Try the night market at Bai Chay Town. It is set up with many small open-air stalls with good collections of Vietnamese products includes the famous traditional Vietnamese silk dress (ao dai), lacquerware, chopsticks, trinkets, ceramic tea sets, Vietnamese conical hats (nón lá) and dolls. Experienced shoppers recommend bargaining hard to 30-50% of the original offered price. Most shops accept US Dollars as well as the local currency, Dong. Another fun way of shopping is from small floating shops. Local people row boats filled with goods such as beer, vodka, cigarettes, potato chips, cookies and other snacks. Their small boats are usually laden with goods in a very organised way and even if you’re not buying anything these vessels are fascinating to see and photograph. It is important for shoppers not to encourage vendors selling stalagmites and stalactites as they should stay where they belong – inside Halong’s caves and grottos.
Top 7 must-see natural caves in Vietnam
While Vietnam has developed a reputation for romantic beaches, it is increasingly known for its range of beautiful caves. Let’s take a closer look and explore the majestic beauty of the country’s best caves.
2020 National Yoga Festival kicks off in Thanh Hoa
Practitioners from 49 Yoga clubs of 24 cities and provinces attended the opening ceremony of the 2020 National Yoga Festival in Thanh Hoa province on June 28, marking the 6th International Day of Yoga (June 21).
