Revolution or inequality trap? Amitabh Kant flags big risks, warns of artificial intelligence push backfiring at AI Summit
Publish Date: 2026-02-17 01:24:00
Source Domain: m.economictimes.com
- Former G20 Sherpa Amitabh Kant emphasized the need for AI to foster inclusive growth to avoid unequal societies during Day 2 of the AI Impact Summit.
- Kant argued that AI success should be judged by its impact on classrooms, nutrition, and opportunities for the economically excluded rather than market factors.
- The AI for India panel discussed whether AI can transform the lives of citizens in the Global South and improve learning outcomes and nutrition standards, significant global challenges.
- Kant warned against the risk of AI concentrating advantages in a few corporations or countries, potentially creating a highly unequal society if not managed properly.
- He drew a parallel to the post-World War II economic rise in the Western nations, highlighting the potential for rapid growth to leave deep inequalities in its wake.
- Kant raised concerns about data from the Global South being used to improve AI models, which may later be sold back to these regions at high costs.
- The discussion included insights from a diverse panel, including representatives from the United Nations, various think tanks, and space technology firms.
- The panel stressed the importance of making AI accessible, affordable, and accountable to ensure equitable outcomes and prevent greater inequality.
