Understanding Artificial Intelligence Technology is Essential for Greater Competence – Principal Secretary Brijesh Singh

Nagpur : Artificial intelligence (AI) has opened the door for individuals working in the media to become more informed and capable. The limitations of accessing knowledge in one’s native language have now been reduced significantly with the help of AI. Information is now readily available in any language of choice. Instead of distancing ourselves from AI, it is our collective responsibility to understand the technology and use it to its fullest potential, stated Brijesh Singh, Principal Secretary and Director General of the Information and Public Relations Department.

He was speaking at a special program on “Artificial Intelligence in Journalism” organized by the Nagpur Press Club in collaboration with the Directorate General of Information and Public Relations, Nagpur office.

Senior journalist and former State Information Commissioner Rahul Pandey presided over the event. Attendees included Nagpur Press Club President Pradeep Maitra, Nagpur-Amravati Regional Director of the Directorate General of Information and Public Relations Dr. Ganesh Mule, Director of Information Kishor Gangurde, and Dayanand Kamble.

Mr. Brijesh Singh remarked that whenever new technology is introduced, there is a common fear of job losses. However, history shows that technology has created new opportunities. Similar apprehensions are expressed about AI, but the real concern lies in the inability to adapt to it. Those unable to leverage this medium may risk losing their jobs. To make effective use of AI, individuals must prove their competence. Information derived through AI should be cross-verified, refined, and assessed from ethical and constitutional perspectives, ensuring vigilance and correcting errors, he cautioned.

He highlighted the significant influence of social media on people today, which brings with it various risks. Instances of individuals falling victim to fraudulent schemes due to misleading messages on their phones are common. Overcoming fear and maintaining vigilance is essential. AI should be embraced with caution, adhering to constitutional and truthful standards. Human curiosity, which once led to answers through Google, must now explore the advanced realm of AI to gain knowledge, he emphasized.

In his presidential address, Rahul Pandey stressed the importance of combining inherent skills with the proper use of AI. He also highlighted the need to develop AI technology tailored to Indian requirements to prevent its misuse for anti-national activities. Marathi language should also be integrated with AI, he added. Pandey called for more workshops on this subject.

Nagpur Press Club President Pradeep Maitra delivered the introductory remarks. The program was moderated by Dr. Ganesh Mule, and the vote of thanks was delivered by Dayanand Kamble. Senior journalists Bal Kulkarni, Dharmendra Jore, Bhupendra Ganveer, along with other media professionals and officials from the Directorate General of Information and Public Relations, attended the event. Additionally, district information offices across the state and various journalism institutes participated in the lecture online.