Artificial Intelligence is evolving into a powerful technology. It is no longer limited to smartphones and computers and is driving automation and deep learning. Artificial Intelligence (AI) is the technology behind driverless cars, automated drones and humanoid robots. AI is transforming the way we communicate, learn, innovate and do just about everything. However, as we stand on the cusp of this transformation, it is vital to ask: what kind of AI do we need? The answer is clear and resounding – India needs to adopt the Green AI pathway which is sustainable, inclusive, energy efficient and honours the linguistic diversity of the country.

The adoption of Green AI and not Red AI is critical for preserving India’s cultural identity, reducing ecological harm and democratizing access to technology. Green AI prioritizes efficiency, accessibility and ecological sustainability. Red AI, in contrast, is characterized by resource-hungry AI infrastructure models, centralization of knowledge and social inequities. For a nation as diverse, multilingual and socioeconomically layered as India, Red AI is bound to worsen existing inequalities. Moreover, the environmental impacts of AI are becoming increasingly clear as its usage surges globally. Green AI promotes climate-responsible computation and aligns with India’s commitments under the Paris Agreement and its own climate action goals.

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According to a 2024 UNEP note titled AI End-to-End, it was earlier believed that AI’s environmental impact would mostly be felt during its early-stage development, which needs a lot of data and computing........

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