Google invests $1 mn in IIT Madras’ new Centre for Responsible AI
Google has invested $1 million in the new Center for Responsible AI at the Indian Institute of Technology Madras (IIT Madras), which will focus on developing AI-based solutions in areas such as healthcare, agriculture, and education.
The investment, made through Google’s AI for Social Good program, will help support research and development at the new center, which will also include collaboration with researchers from around the world.
“We are thrilled to partner with IIT Madras in this endeavor and look forward to contributing to the growth of India’s vibrant academic community, as well as the research and development of AI for social good,” said TR Ramachandran, country director for Google India, in a statement.
The new center, which opened in February 2021, will focus on developing AI solutions that are safe, inclusive, and socially responsible. This includes taking into account cultural and ethical considerations when developing AI systems, as well as ensuring transparency and accountability in their use.
“We are very excited about this partnership with Google, which has been a key player in advancing AI technologies globally,” said Ravindra Gettu, dean of industrial consultancy and sponsored research at IIT Madras. “The Center for Responsible AI at IIT Madras is uniquely positioned to address the societal implications of AI.”
The investment from Google is part of its broader efforts to boost the growth and development of the AI industry in India. In September 2020, Google launched a $10 billion fund to help accelerate digital transformation in India and support startups, small businesses, and entrepreneurs.
Google has also been working to make AI more accessible and inclusive, with initiatives such as the TensorFlow and Teachable Machine platforms, which allow users to train and build their own AI models.
Overall, the investment from Google in the new Center for Responsible AI at IIT Madras represents an important step forward in the development of AI technologies that are safe, inclusive, and socially responsible. By investing in research and development in these areas, Google and IIT Madras are helping to ensure that AI is used to benefit society as a whole.