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15 Feb 2026·Source: The Hindu
5 min
Science & TechnologyPolity & GovernanceNEWS

AI to Generate Jobs Despite Replacing Some Roles: IT Secretary

IT Secretary says AI will create more jobs despite displacing some.

AI to Generate Jobs Despite Replacing Some Roles: IT Secretary

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Union Secretary for Electronics and Information Technology, S. Krishnan, stated that Artificial Intelligence (AI) will create jobs even as some roles are displaced. A NITI Aayog study suggests that while some coding jobs may disappear, AI will create more opportunities.

The government aims to use the existing legal framework for AI, with some adjustments, addressing copyright issues and data protection through the Digital Personal Data Protection Act, 2023. The IT Ministry has introduced requirements to label AI-generated content to ensure users can identify inauthentic imagery. Time limits for court-ordered takedowns have been reduced to 2-3 hours.

Key Facts

1.

AI will create jobs even as some roles go away.

2.

NITI Aayog study suggests some coding jobs will disappear.

3.

AI will create more opportunities in application development.

4.

The government aims to use the existing legal framework for AI with some adjustments.

5.

Copyright issues and data protection are being addressed through the Digital Personal Data Protection Act, 2023.

6.

The IT Ministry introduced requirements to label AI-generated content.

UPSC Exam Angles

1.

GS Paper III: Science and Technology - Developments and their applications and effects in everyday life

2.

Connects to the syllabus through the topic of Artificial Intelligence and its impact on the economy and society

3.

Potential question types: Statement-based questions, analytical questions on the ethical implications of AI

In Simple Words

AI is changing how we work. Some jobs, like basic computer coding, might disappear. But AI will also create new jobs that need people with special knowledge, like farming or manufacturing. The government is trying to update laws to handle these changes, especially regarding data and content.

India Angle

In India, this means that while some IT jobs might be automated, there will be more demand for people who can apply AI to solve local problems. For example, AI could help farmers improve crop yields or help small businesses reach more customers.

For Instance

Think of a local tailor. AI might automate some basic stitching, but the tailor will still be needed to take measurements, design clothes, and interact with customers.

This affects everyone because AI will change the skills needed to get a job. People need to focus on learning new skills and adapting to the changing job market.

AI will change jobs, but it will also create new opportunities.

Visual Insights

Key Highlights from IT Secretary's Statement

Highlights key figures and initiatives mentioned in the news regarding AI and job creation.

Court-Ordered Takedown Time
2-3 hours

Reduced time for takedowns ensures faster removal of inauthentic content.

More Information

Background

The evolution of Artificial Intelligence (AI) can be traced back to the mid-20th century. Early pioneers like Alan Turing explored the theoretical possibility of creating machines that could think. The Dartmouth Workshop in 1956 is often considered the birthplace of AI as a field. This led to initial enthusiasm and research into areas like machine learning and natural language processing. The concept of machine learning involves algorithms that allow computers to learn from data without explicit programming. However, early AI research faced limitations due to computational constraints and a lack of data. This led to a period known as the "AI winter," where funding and interest waned. The development of more powerful computers and the availability of large datasets in the late 20th and early 21st centuries led to a resurgence of AI. This era saw significant advancements in areas like deep learning and neural networks. Deep learning is a subset of machine learning that uses artificial neural networks with multiple layers to analyze data. Today, AI is governed by various ethical guidelines and legal frameworks that are still evolving. Many countries are developing national AI strategies to promote innovation while addressing potential risks. The use of AI raises important questions about privacy, bias, and accountability. The Digital Personal Data Protection Act, 2023 in India is an example of legislation aimed at protecting personal data in the digital age. These frameworks seek to balance the benefits of AI with the need to safeguard individual rights and societal values. Globally, different regions have adopted varying approaches to AI regulation. The European Union, for example, has proposed comprehensive AI regulations that emphasize human oversight and ethical considerations. The United States has taken a more sector-specific approach, focusing on areas like healthcare and finance. These different approaches reflect diverse cultural values and priorities.

Latest Developments

Recent government initiatives focus on promoting AI adoption across various sectors. The Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) is playing a key role in shaping the AI ecosystem in India. This includes initiatives to develop AI skills, promote research and development, and create a supportive regulatory environment. The government is also exploring the use of AI in areas like healthcare, agriculture, and education. The NITI Aayog has been instrumental in formulating India's national AI strategy. There are ongoing debates about the ethical implications of AI and the need for responsible AI development. Concerns have been raised about potential biases in AI algorithms and the impact of AI on employment. Stakeholders from academia, industry, and government are working together to address these challenges. The focus is on ensuring that AI is used in a way that benefits society as a whole. The discussion around AI ethics is gaining prominence globally. The future outlook for AI in India is promising, with significant investments being made in AI research and development. The government has set ambitious targets for AI adoption and is working to create a skilled workforce to support the growth of the AI industry. The aim is to position India as a global leader in AI. The development of AI is expected to drive economic growth and create new opportunities. The IT Ministry has introduced requirements to label AI-generated content to ensure users can identify inauthentic imagery. Challenges remain in terms of data availability, infrastructure, and talent. Addressing these challenges will be crucial for realizing the full potential of AI in India. Collaboration between government, industry, and academia is essential for creating a thriving AI ecosystem. The Digital Personal Data Protection Act, 2023, addresses data protection concerns, but its implementation and effectiveness will be key to building trust in AI systems.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What are the key takeaways regarding AI and job creation, according to the IT Secretary?

The IT Secretary, S. Krishnan, stated that AI will lead to job creation, even as some roles are displaced. A NITI Aayog study supports this, suggesting that while some coding jobs may disappear, AI will create more opportunities overall, particularly in application development.

2. How is the government planning to regulate AI in India?

The government intends to use the existing legal framework for AI, with some adjustments. Key areas of focus include addressing copyright issues and ensuring data protection through the Digital Personal Data Protection Act, 2023.

3. What is the Digital Personal Data Protection Act, 2023, and how does it relate to AI?

The Digital Personal Data Protection Act, 2023, is a law focused on protecting individual data. It is relevant to AI as it provides a framework for responsible data handling, which is crucial for the development and deployment of AI systems. The Act addresses data protection concerns related to AI.

4. What are the potential benefits and drawbacks of AI in the job market?

AI can automate tasks, increase efficiency, and create new job opportunities in areas like AI development and application. However, it can also lead to job displacement in certain sectors, particularly those involving repetitive tasks. The net impact on employment is a subject of ongoing debate.

5. Why is the impact of AI on the job market a topic of current discussion?

The rapid advancements in AI technology and its increasing adoption across various industries have raised concerns about potential job displacement and the need for workforce adaptation. The IT Secretary's statement and the NITI Aayog study highlight the ongoing efforts to understand and manage these impacts.

6. What is the significance of labeling AI-generated content?

Labeling AI-generated content helps users identify inauthentic imagery and differentiate between human-created and AI-created content. This is important for maintaining trust and transparency in digital media.

7. What are the government's initiatives related to AI?

The government is promoting AI adoption across various sectors through the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY). Initiatives include developing AI skills, promoting research and development, and creating a supportive regulatory environment. The Digital Personal Data Protection Act, 2023, is also a key initiative.

8. What is NITI Aayog's role in the AI landscape of India?

NITI Aayog plays a crucial role in providing recommendations and strategies for AI adoption and development in India. The NITI Aayog study mentioned in the article highlights the potential impact of AI on job creation and displacement, informing policy decisions.

9. What are the implications of reduced time limits for court-ordered takedowns of online content?

Reducing the time limits for court-ordered takedowns to 2-3 hours ensures quicker removal of illegal or harmful content from online platforms. This helps in curbing the spread of misinformation and maintaining a safer online environment.

10. What are the key facts to remember about the Digital Personal Data Protection Act, 2023 for the UPSC Prelims exam?

The Digital Personal Data Protection Act, 2023, addresses data protection and privacy concerns. It is relevant to AI regulation and the responsible use of data in AI systems. Remember that it aims to protect individual data rights.

Practice Questions (MCQs)

1. Consider the following statements regarding the Digital Personal Data Protection Act, 2023: 1. The Act establishes a Data Protection Board of India to adjudicate non-compliance. 2. The Act applies to the processing of digital personal data within India, but not outside India. 3. The Act mandates that organizations obtain explicit consent before processing personal data, with certain exceptions. Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

  • A.1 and 2 only
  • B.1 and 3 only
  • C.2 and 3 only
  • D.1, 2 and 3
Show Answer

Answer: B

Statement 1 is CORRECT: The Digital Personal Data Protection Act, 2023 does establish a Data Protection Board of India. Statement 2 is INCORRECT: The Act applies to the processing of digital personal data within India and also outside India if such processing is in connection with any activity related to offering goods or services to data principals within India. Statement 3 is CORRECT: The Act mandates obtaining explicit consent before processing personal data, with certain exceptions for legitimate uses.

2. In the context of Artificial Intelligence (AI), what is the primary purpose of labeling AI-generated content, as recently mandated by the IT Ministry?

  • A.To promote the use of AI in content creation
  • B.To ensure users can identify inauthentic imagery
  • C.To restrict the development of AI technology
  • D.To provide copyright protection for AI-generated content
Show Answer

Answer: B

The IT Ministry has introduced requirements to label AI-generated content to ensure users can identify inauthentic imagery. This is to promote transparency and prevent the spread of misinformation.

3. Which of the following statements best describes the role of NITI Aayog in the context of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in India?

  • A.It is primarily responsible for regulating AI development and deployment.
  • B.It is focused on providing funding for AI startups.
  • C.It has been instrumental in formulating India's national AI strategy.
  • D.It is mainly involved in conducting research on AI technologies.
Show Answer

Answer: C

NITI Aayog has been instrumental in formulating India's national AI strategy. It plays a key role in guiding the development and adoption of AI in the country.

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