For this article:

16 Feb 2026·Source: The Indian Express
3 min
International RelationsScience & TechnologyEconomyEDITORIAL

Global South Must Capitalize on AI Opportunities

Editorial emphasizes the Global South's need to leverage AI for development.

Editorial Analysis

The Global South has a crucial opportunity to leverage AI for its advancement and must actively engage in shaping the AI landscape.

Main Arguments:

  1. The Global South needs to actively participate in the AI revolution.
  2. AI can be used to build real-world solutions.
  3. The Global South can become a leading voice on AI.
  4. Securing a seat at the high table of technological leadership is essential.

Conclusion

The Global South must seize its AI moment to foster development and innovation.

Policy Implications

Policies should focus on expanding computing power and data center infrastructure to support AI development. Emphasis should be placed on ethical and responsible AI use.
This editorial likely discusses the importance of the Global South seizing opportunities in Artificial Intelligence (AI) for its development and progress. It probably highlights the potential benefits and challenges faced by developing nations in adopting and utilizing AI technologies.

UPSC Exam Angles

1.

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

2.

GS Paper II: International Relations - Effect of policies and politics of developed and developing countries on India's interests

3.

Ethical considerations in AI development and deployment

In Simple Words

AI is like teaching computers to think and learn like humans. It helps them do tasks that usually need human intelligence. This includes things like understanding language, recognizing images, and making decisions.

India Angle

In India, AI can help farmers improve crop yields, doctors diagnose diseases faster, and students access personalized education. It can also create new job opportunities in the tech sector.

For Instance

Think of AI as the technology behind personalized recommendations on e-commerce sites. It learns your preferences and suggests products you might like, making shopping easier.

AI is changing the world, and understanding it helps you navigate the future. It affects everything from your job to the services you use every day.

AI is not just for tech experts; it's for everyone.

More Information

Background

The rise of Artificial Intelligence (AI) has roots in the mid-20th century with pioneers like Alan Turing exploring the possibility of machines thinking. Early AI focused on symbolic reasoning and problem-solving. The Turing Test, proposed by Alan Turing, aimed to determine if a machine could exhibit intelligent behavior equivalent to, or indistinguishable from, that of a human. Over the decades, AI has evolved through various phases, including expert systems, machine learning, and deep learning. Machine learning algorithms allow computers to learn from data without explicit programming. Deep learning, a subset of machine learning, uses artificial neural networks with multiple layers to analyze data and extract complex features. These advancements have led to AI applications in diverse fields. Today, AI is transforming industries and societies globally. The ethical and societal implications of AI are increasingly important, leading to discussions about responsible AI development and deployment. Governments and organizations are working on frameworks and guidelines to ensure AI is used ethically and for the benefit of humanity. The Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) can be potentially accelerated by responsible AI adoption.

Latest Developments

Recent advancements in AI include the development of large language models (LLMs) and generative AI. These models can generate text, images, and other content, leading to new applications in creative industries and beyond. The increasing accessibility of AI tools and platforms is empowering individuals and organizations to experiment with AI and develop innovative solutions. However, the rapid development of AI also raises concerns about job displacement, bias, and misuse. Policymakers are grappling with how to regulate AI to mitigate these risks while fostering innovation. The debate around AI regulation involves balancing the potential benefits of AI with the need to protect individuals and society from harm. The role of NITI Aayog in shaping India's AI strategy is crucial. Looking ahead, AI is expected to become even more integrated into our lives, transforming industries such as healthcare, transportation, and education. The development of AI will require collaboration between researchers, policymakers, and industry leaders to ensure that AI is used responsibly and ethically. The focus on AI ethics is gaining momentum globally.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is the main focus of the editorial regarding the Global South and AI?

The editorial emphasizes the importance of the Global South capitalizing on opportunities in Artificial Intelligence (AI) for development and progress.

2. What are some related concepts that are important to understand in relation to AI and the Global South?

Related concepts include the Digital Divide, Technology Transfer, Data Sovereignty, and AI Ethics.

3. Why is the topic of the Global South and AI in the news recently?

The topic is in the news due to recent advancements in AI, such as large language models (LLMs) and generative AI, and the need for equitable access and benefit-sharing for developing nations.

4. What is the AI Impact Summit, and what is its significance?

The AI Impact Summit is a summit scheduled for February 16-20, 2026, in New Delhi, with an expected participation of over 50,000 people. It highlights the growing importance and interest in AI globally, particularly in the context of its impact.

5. What are the potential benefits and challenges for the Global South in adopting AI technologies?

Potential benefits include improved healthcare, education, and economic growth. Challenges include the digital divide, lack of infrastructure, and ethical considerations.

6. How might the rise of AI impact common citizens in the Global South?

AI could improve access to services like healthcare and education, but it could also exacerbate existing inequalities if not implemented equitably. Job displacement due to automation is also a concern.

7. What is the Turing Test, and why is it relevant to the discussion of AI?

The Turing Test, proposed by Alan Turing, aims to determine if a machine can exhibit intelligent behavior equivalent to, or indistinguishable from, that of a human. It's relevant because it provides a benchmark for evaluating AI's progress.

8. What is the historical background of AI?

The rise of Artificial Intelligence (AI) has roots in the mid-20th century with pioneers like Alan Turing exploring the possibility of machines thinking. Early AI focused on symbolic reasoning and problem-solving.

9. What are the key dates to remember regarding AI?

February 16-20, 2026: AI Impact Summit.

10. What are recent developments in AI?

Recent advancements in AI include the development of large language models (LLMs) and generative AI. These models can generate text, images, and other content, leading to new applications in creative industries and beyond. The increasing accessibility of AI tools and platforms is empowering individuals and organizations to experiment with AI and develop innovative solutions.

Practice Questions (MCQs)

1. Which of the following statements best describes the 'Turing Test'?

  • A.A test to measure the processing speed of a computer
  • B.A test to determine if a machine can exhibit intelligent behavior equivalent to a human
  • C.A test to evaluate the security of AI systems against cyber attacks
  • D.A test to assess the energy efficiency of AI algorithms
Show Answer

Answer: B

The Turing Test, proposed by Alan Turing, is designed to determine if a machine can exhibit intelligent behavior equivalent to, or indistinguishable from, that of a human. It does not measure processing speed, security, or energy efficiency. Therefore, option B is the correct answer.

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