TIME Magazine on Thursday unveiled its second annual TIME100 AI list, which included people who have contributed to the growth of artificial intelligence. Thre notable Indians –Union IT Minister Ashwini Vaishna, Bollywood actor Anil Kapoor and Nandan Nilekani, Co-founder of Infosys and Chairman of EkStep– are on the list.
Vaishnaw was recognised for leading India’s efforts in the AI sector. Meanwhile, Kapoor’s inclusion was due to a landmark court victory over unauthorized AI use of his likeness. Nilekani focuses on the practical application of AI technology. All three Indians are featured under the category 'Shapers'.
Speaking about the scope of AI technology in the near future, TIME Editor-in-Chief Sam Jacobs said, "If the world of AI was dominated by the emergence of startup labs like OpenAI, Anthropic, and their competitors in 2023, this year, as critics and champions alike have noted, we’ve seen the outsize influence of a small number of tech giants.
"This year’s list offers examples of the possibilities for AI when it moves out of the lab and into the world… Many industries, including media companies like TIME, are now partnering with leading AI companies to explore new business models and opportunities. The consequences of those moves will likely determine who appears on next year’s list," he added.
Ashwini Vaishnaw On The List:
The Union Minister played a pivotal role in the country's progress towards Artificial Intelligence. India hosted the Global IndiaAI Summit in July, attended by over 2,000 AI experts. At the Summit, Vaishnaw emphasised the need to “democratise technology". The Indian government has also allocated over $1.2 billion to support its nascent AI sector.
Anil Kapoor On The TIME AI List:
Anil Kapoor has been featured in the TIMES list almost a year after a legal victory in September last year after the Delhi High Cout's interim order which restrained entities from misusing his personal traits, image or voice.
"The actor, who starred in the Oscar-winning movie Slumdog Millionaire and many Bollywood films, took up the case after a large number of distorted videos, gifs, and emojis bearing his likeness began circulating online. He also sought protection over the use of his iconic phrase, “jhakaas,” or “awesome” in Hindi—first uttered in the 1985 Hindi film, Yudh," TIMES Magazine wrote.
Nandan Nilekani On The List:
Nilekani is known worldwide for his renowned work in technology. "And like many other tech billionaires, Nilekani, 69, is optimistic about AI’s potential, but has thoughts on how to ensure the technology’s rewards are distributed widely," the magazine wrote. He focussed on practical applications of AI technology through EkStep. Notably, EkStep is a non-profit foundation focussing on developing digital public goods.