Context:
Agentic AI—artificial intelligence systems capable of autonomous decision-making and task execution—is emerging as a major technological shift. According to Saugat Sindhu (Global Head, Advisory Services, Wipro Ltd.), while Agentic AI offers massive economic opportunities for India, it also poses significant cyber, security, and ethical risks if not properly regulated.
Key Highlights / Details
What is Agentic AI?
- Agentic AI systems go beyond generative AI; they plan, decide, and act autonomously without human prompts.
- They integrate Large Language Models (LLMs) with automation tools, enabling independent decision-making.
- Examples: AI agents for financial trading, automated cybersecurity defense systems, workflow automation bots.
Opportunities for India
- Can drive digital transformation under India Stack and emerging Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI).
- Enhances economic productivity and business efficiency.
- Offers global leadership potential in AI-driven services and innovation.
- Can strengthen governance through automated public service delivery and AI-enabled citizen services.
Risks and Liabilities
- Cybersecurity threats: AI systems can be hacked or manipulated to produce harmful outcomes.
- Privacy concerns: Autonomous data collection and decision systems may violate data rights.
- Ethical risks: Bias, lack of transparency (black-box behaviour), and accountability gaps.
- Misuse: Potential use in misinformation campaigns, cybercrime, and surveillance abuse.
India’s Response – Need for AI Regulation
- Emphasis on responsible AI – security, fairness, transparency.
- Strong cyber laws and AI governance frameworks are required.
- Need for AI audit mechanisms, risk-based classification of AI systems.
- Collaboration between government, industry, and academia is essential.
Relevant Prelims Points
- Agentic AI: AI that performs autonomous actions aligned with goals using reasoning + LLMs + tools.
- India Stack: Set of DPI layers including Aadhaar, UPI, DigiLocker.
- Responsible AI for Youth: Initiative by Ministry of Electronics & IT (MeitY).
- Digital Personal Data Protection Act, 2023 – India’s data protection law.
Relevant Mains Points
- Role of AI in India’s economic transformation.
- Challenges of regulating emerging technologies.
- Balancing innovation and regulation in AI governance.
- AI ethics and accountability in public policy.