On July 11, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh launched 75 newly-developed artificial intelligence (AI) products during the first-ever symposium and exhibition on Artificial Intelligence in Defence (AIDef) in New Delhi.

The event was a part of the ‘Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav’ celebrations. Singh described AI as a revolutionary step in the development of humanity. The products showcased were AI-enabled solutions developed by research organisations, services, industries and start-ups. 

The products belong to the fields of automation or unmanned or robotics systems, human behaviour analysis, cyber security, logistics & supply chain management, intelligent monitoring system, speech/voice analysis and C4ISR (Command, Control, Communication, Computer & Intelligence, Surveillance & Reconnaissance) systems. Apart from these 75 products that were launched, 100 other products are currently in different stages of development.

During the event, panel discussions were held on topics such as ‘GenNext AI solutions’, ‘Deploying AI in Defence’, and ‘AI in Defence – Industry Perspective’. A GenNext, AI Solutions competition was also held, where students showcased their futuristic AI models and solutions.

At one point, Singh quoted Russian President Vladimir Putin: “Whoever becomes the leader in artificial intelligence will rule the world”. However, he further explained India’s belief in the principle of ‘vasudhaiv kutumbakam’ (the whole world is one family), and the country has no intention to rule the world.