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Government to launch National Programme on Artificial Intelligence (AI) soon
The Centre is going to launch a National Programme on AI soon. The programme will identify high value data sets in the public sector and provide access to the data to AI models. The government will also set up a Centre for Transformational AI to tap the data in various sectors and make it available for AI models, according to Joint Secretary, MEITY. The govt. will launch Digital India 2.0 with an aim to take the digital service offerings, infrastructure and cyber security to next level. More services will be offered through digital platforms, India will focus on developing indigenous cybersecurity products and robust digital infrastructure.
DoT directs all state procurements to be of local cyber security products
The DoT has directed to give preference to locally produced cybersecurity products in public procurement. “Preference has to be given to ‘Make in India’ cyber security products in public procurement by central ministries/departments, public sector undertakings (PSUs) and government organisations,” the DoT said in a circular issued. The development came after the Ministry of Electronics & Information Technology said that it was awash with complaints from droves of indigenous cyber product companies about the challenges, they were facing in participating in public procurement of such products.
Target to develop more than 4,372 cities as smart cities
Stating that the smart cities concept does not have a single dimension of focusing on just big or small cities, Secretary, Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs, has said that the target is to develop more than 4,372 cities as smart cities. “Our target is to develop our 4,372 cities, along with other cities, as smart cities. To make this happen, cities should use their land, resources, local people, and skills to move on different path,” he said at the virtual 4th Smart Cities Summit & 2nd Smart Urban Innovation Awards, organized by FICCI in the Capital. He said that the learning of one city chosen under 100 smart cities should be spread to other cities so that it becomes a light house.
Indian auto industry seeks government support for localisation of electronic components
Auto industry body SIAM sought government support for localisation of electronic components, specially semiconductors, which is currently facing a global shortage, stating it would need huge investments. The shortage of semiconductors globally due to a spike in demand from the consumer electronics industry during the COVID-19 lockdowns has impacted automobile manufacturers in India as well. Semiconductors have become a crucial part in modern cars with increased electronic components and connectivity features.