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Genting Cruise Lines’ World Dream is the first in a ‘safe cruise’ pilot scheme announced by the Singapore Tourism Board last month to ensure the safe and gradual resumption of cruises amid the COVID-19 pandemic.
The Cruise sector has been badly hit by the outbreak of COVID-19, with some of the earliest big outbreaks found on cruises. Cruise ships have been identified as high risk for virus spread due to its large number of passengers, confined spaces and lots of opportunities for transmission – from guests leaving and reboarding the ship to guests visiting various locations in different countries over a short period of time.
The World Dream set sail this past Friday on its first trip with around 1,400 passengers, about half of its maximum capacity and reportedly the maximum allowed due to anti-coronavirus policies.
Health and Safety a top priority for resuming cuise liner operations
Before gaining access to the ship, all guests will have to pass a COVID-19 Antigen Rapid Test, and those who are seven years old or older will have to carry a MICE Pod token, which monitors wearers to ensure they adhere to social distancing guidelines. That requirement stems from orders passed down by Singapore’s Ministry of Health.
Policies also include social distancing procedures in all public areas, increased food and beverage handling rules, 100% fresh air ventilation in the staterooms and public areas, as well as the ship’s inclusion of a new medical facility. That facility includes a Polymerase Chain Reaction machine, which can detect bacteria and viruses much quicker than other methods.
A second cruise line, Royal Caribbean International, will join the scheme starting December 1.
Under the scheme, the cruises ships will make round trips to the city-state with no port of call in between. Capacity would be limited to 50 per cent and passengers must be Singapore residents. The programme aims at giving residents an opportunity to experience travel and a holiday feel amid the pandemic as well as to revive the tourism industry.
The Cruise inustry is well suited to benefit further from technology solutions designed to help Cruises prevent or efficiently and effectivley management any outbreaks on board. They will also help accelerate the process of sailing further afield to other nations.
Outbreak management system to assist in accelerating the resumption of multiple stop cruises
The travel and hospitality sector may have to invest in technology and adopt integrated technology solutions to ensure business continuity and to provide assurances to their workforce and to their passengers and guests that an outbreak management system has been put in place to ensure the health and safety of everyone involved.
A total outbreak management system would enable cruise liners to have visibility of the overall health of everyone on board and build confidence in the restart of the badly hit sector.
Liberty Passage is a technology solution developed by Singapore start-up Access Anywhere has been designed to help provide relevant timely information and build the confidence required to restart free movement between countries and continents.
The Liberty Outbreak Management System gives cruise operators the opportunity to keep the pandemic under control by leveraging the latest advancements in technology such as constant machine learning and AI to keep cruise line operators, passengers and the authorities informed and aware of the risks around them.
The technology monitors guests and employee movements and contact in real-time, with dashboards that are continually updating with data. The AI and ML technology provides insights to any high-risk areas on the ship.
Its’ app featuring a self temperature check-in function, passenger itinerary and e-health record log along with thermal scanners make the on boarding and off boarding of passengers more efficient.
The system can immediately help identify anyone who has been exposed to a confirmed COVID-19 case and individuals will also receive personal risk notifications and alerts.
It will help management prevent or successfully manage an outbreak on the cruise liners by providing them with data and insights to make critical decisions quickly.
With many technology solutions requiring personal data to operate successfully, Liberty Passage uses blockchain technology, all personal information is anonymized at source. The system only asks what is necessary to keep all stakeholders informed and safe.
Liberty Passage is one of three outbreak management solutions Access Anywhere is offering for individuals, organisations, and the entire travel industry.
The Liberty Universe is for the entire population with Liberty Open designed for everyone to manage their personal risk, Liberty Corporate for organisations to ensure a safe return to work, and Liberty Passage for travel and the reopening of borders. Everyone gains from the vast insights the system provides to be able to go about their normal lives whilst keeping as safe as possible during the current pandemic and to mitigate risk from future outbreaks.
For more information, please visit: www.libertyandpassage.com
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The Cyber Security Agency of Singapore (CSA) recently unveiled the pivotal insights gleaned from its inaugural Singapore Cybersecurity Health Report 2023. Conducted between May and August of the previous year, the survey canvassed the opinions of 2,036 organisations spanning various sises and sectors.
The objective was to gauge the landscape of cybersecurity readiness across local entities and inform CSA’s strategic initiatives. The importance of bolstering cybersecurity resilience within these organisations cannot be overstated, as they play a critical role in shaping the digital experiences of Singaporeans through their services and products.
The findings unveiled a mixed landscape: while the majority of organisations demonstrated an awareness of cybersecurity imperatives, there remains substantial room for improvement in adoption rates. On average, organisations reported implementing around 70% of essential cybersecurity measures across various categories. Additionally, a significant proportion, approximately 75%, acknowledged CSA’s cybersecurity certification programmes, Cyber Essentials and Cyber Trust, which serve as national standards for prioritising cybersecurity measures.
Despite these positive indicators, CSA sounded a cautionary note, emphasising the inadequacy of partial adoption. Without the full spectrum of essential measures, organisations remain vulnerable to unnecessary cyber risks. Alarmingly, only a third of organisations had fully implemented at least three of the five categories outlined in Cyber Essentials. This underscores the urgency for comprehensive adoption to fortify cybersecurity posture effectively.
A prevalent challenge cited by organisations hindering full adoption was a lack of knowledge and experience, echoed by 59% of businesses and 56% of non-profits. This is compounded by the rapidly evolving cyber threat landscape, exacerbated by a shortage of skilled cyber professionals. Moreover, a prevailing perception of being unlikely targets of cyber-attacks and resource constraints further impedes progress in bolstering defences.
The consequences of inadequate cybersecurity measures were starkly evident, with over 80% of organisations reporting encountering cybersecurity incidents annually, including prevalent threats like ransomware and social engineering scams. These incidents invariably inflicted a negative business impact, with disruptions, data loss, and reputational damage among the most commonly cited consequences.
While the cost of implementing cyber hygiene measures may seem daunting, particularly for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), it pales in comparison to the potential financial ramifications of cyber incidents. CSA emphasises the importance of viewing cybersecurity investment as essential insurance against potentially catastrophic losses.
In response to these challenges, CSA has rolled out a comprehensive suite of initiatives aimed at bolstering organisational cybersecurity resilience. These include cybersecurity resources to raise awareness, tailored health plans delivered by cybersecurity consultants, and certification programmes such as Cyber Essentials and Cyber Trust. Additionally, the collaboration with the Infocomm Media Development Authority has led to the introduction of the Cybersecurity Health Check, providing organisations with a self-assessment tool to benchmark their cyber hygiene and access remedial resources.
Mr. David Koh, Chief Executive of CSA, stressed the imperative for organisations to prioritise cybersecurity and leverage available resources and funding support. Delaying proactive measures until after an incident occurs, he cautioned, would prove significantly more costly in the long run.
The release of the Singapore Cybersecurity Health Report underscores the urgent need for organisations to fortify their cybersecurity posture comprehensively. By embracing a holistic approach to cybersecurity and leveraging available resources and support, organisations can mitigate risks and safeguard against the increasingly sophisticated cyber threats of the digital age.
The Singapore Cybersecurity Health Report 2023 is available at www.csa.gov.sg/cyberhealthreport and the Cybersecurity Health Check can be accessed at https://www.csa.gov.sg/cyberhealthchecktool.
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Bushfires represent one of the most formidable challenges faced by firefighters worldwide. With their unpredictable behaviour and rapid spread, combating these blazes demands innovative solutions to ensure the safety of both responders and communities at risk. In a groundbreaking initiative, researchers are harnessing the power of robotics to revolutionise bushfire response, paving the way for more effective firefighting strategies and enhanced situational awareness.
At the heart of this endeavour lies the Silvanus Project, an ambitious international collaboration aimed at developing ground robots capable of navigating fire fronts and gathering crucial data in real-time. Led by researchers from Data61’s Queensland Centre for Advanced Technologies, this project represents a pioneering effort to address the inherent dangers associated with traditional firefighting methods.
Bushfires, fueled by factors such as vegetation density and weather conditions, can escalate rapidly, outpacing conventional firefighting techniques. To stay ahead of the inferno, firefighters require accurate information about fire location, direction of spread, and potential hazards. However, obtaining such data often entails placing personnel in hazardous environments, risking their safety in the process.
Drones have emerged as a promising tool for aerial reconnaissance, offering valuable insights into fire behaviour from above. However, their effectiveness is limited by factors such as smoke interference, high winds, and restricted flight times. Recognising these limitations, researchers turned their focus to ground-based solutions, envisioning robots capable of operating in the most challenging of conditions.
The ground robots developed as part of the Silvanus Project are equipped with advanced sensors and navigation systems, allowing them to traverse rugged terrain and navigate through smoke and debris. Some robots are designed to move on legs, mimicking the mobility of insects, while others utilise tracks for increased stability and manoeuvrability. These robots venture into the heart of the fire, gathering critical data such as fire intensity, fuel availability, and environmental conditions.
During a demonstration conducted for fire service representatives and researchers, the capabilities of these ground robots were showcased, highlighting their potential to transform firefighting operations. With the ability to transmit data in real-time to a cloud-based platform, these robots provide firefighters with unprecedented situational awareness, enabling more informed decision-making and proactive firefighting strategies.
Senior experimental scientist Tom Lowe emphasises the significance of these ground robots in enhancing firefighter safety and operational effectiveness. By deploying robots into areas deemed too hazardous for human intervention, firefighters can access vital information without exposing themselves to unnecessary risks. Furthermore, the integration of remote sensing technologies allows robots to assess vegetation density and predict fuel availability, further aiding in fire suppression efforts.
While the technology is still in the developmental stage, researchers are optimistic about its potential impact on future firefighting practices. Navinda Kottege, Cyber-Physical Systems Research Director, underscores the life-saving potential of ground robots, particularly in high-risk firefighting scenarios where human intervention may be impractical or unsafe.
The Silvanus Project represents a collaborative effort involving researchers from across Europe, Australia, Indonesia, and Brazil, united in their mission to develop innovative solutions for forest management and fire prevention. By harnessing the power of robotics and cutting-edge technologies, this initiative aims to bolster preparedness and response capabilities, ultimately saving lives and protecting communities from the devastating impact of bushfires.
As ground robots continue to evolve and mature, fueled by ongoing research and international collaboration, the vision of leveraging technology to mitigate the impact of bushfires grows ever closer to reality. With each technological advancement, firefighters gain new tools and capabilities to confront one of nature’s most formidable adversaries, ensuring a safer and more resilient future for all.
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Artificial Intelligence (AI) stands at the forefront of technological innovation, promising transformative solutions to complex challenges across various domains. Recognising its potential to revolutionise industries and improve societal well-being, the National University of Singapore (NUS) has inaugurated the NUS AI Institute (NAII). Led by Professor Mohan Kankanhalli, NAII aims to accelerate AI research and its practical applications, fostering collaboration, innovation, and societal impact.
In an era marked by rapid technological advancements, AI has emerged as a powerful tool with the capacity to reshape diverse sectors, ranging from healthcare to finance, education, logistics, and beyond. The establishment of NAII underscores NUS’s commitment to harnessing AI for the greater good, addressing critical issues facing Singapore and the global community.
At the core of NAII’s mission is the advancement of fundamental AI research, aimed at pushing the boundaries of AI capabilities and exploring novel applications across various domains. Through foundational research initiatives, scientists at NAII will tackle complex AI problems, spanning hardware and software systems, AI theory, responsible AI, reasoning AI, and resource-efficient AI. By delving into these areas, the institute seeks to develop cutting-edge AI technologies that address real-world challenges and drive innovation.
Moreover, NAII will prioritise research into the ethical and societal implications of AI, aiming to develop robust governance frameworks that ensure responsible AI development and deployment. This includes examining issues related to transparency, accountability, and ethical decision-making in AI systems. By fostering dialogue and research on AI ethics and governance, NAII aims to guide the responsible use of AI technology and mitigate potential risks.
In addition to foundational research, NAII will spearhead applied research initiatives, focusing on developing AI-driven solutions for specific application domains. Collaborating with experts from diverse fields, including healthcare, logistics, manufacturing, finance, urban sustainability, and education, the institute will tackle pressing challenges and explore opportunities for AI-driven innovation. From optimising supply chains to improving healthcare outcomes and enhancing urban infrastructure, NAII’s applied research efforts aim to deliver tangible benefits to society.
Furthermore, NAII will serve as a hub for AI talent development, providing comprehensive education and training programs for students, professionals, and policymakers. By offering hands-on learning experiences and internships, the institute seeks to nurture the next generation of AI leaders and entrepreneurs, equipping them with the skills and knowledge needed to drive innovation in AI.
To support its research and educational endeavours, NUS has allocated significant resources to NAII, including external research grants and institutional funding. Moreover, the institute will collaborate closely with government agencies and industry partners to amplify its impact and drive innovation. Strategic partnerships with leading companies such as IBM and Google Cloud will enable NAII to leverage industry expertise and resources, accelerating the translation of research outcomes into real-world applications.
In alignment with Singapore’s Research, Innovation, and Enterprise (RIE) strategy, NAII aims to contribute to the nation’s AI ecosystem by fostering collaboration, innovation, and talent development. By positioning NUS as a global leader in AI research and application, the institute seeks to drive positive societal change and economic growth.
The establishment of NAII represents a significant milestone in NUS’s journey towards harnessing the power of AI for societal benefit. Through cutting-edge research, education, and collaboration, the institute aims to unlock the full potential of AI and pave the way for a more innovative, sustainable, and inclusive future. With its interdisciplinary approach and commitment to excellence, NAII is poised to make a lasting impact on Singapore and the global AI landscape.
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In a significant stride towards enhancing cybersecurity in the realm of consumer Internet-of-Things (IoT) devices, the Cyber Security Agency of Singapore (CSA) and the Connectivity Standards Alliance (Alliance) recently signed a Mutual Recognition Arrangement (MRA). This milestone agreement underscores a shared commitment to bolstering international cooperation and coordination in cybersecurity, with a specific focus on advancing the security standards of consumer IoT devices.
The MRA, signed by Mr Chua Kuan Seah, Deputy Chief Executive of CSA, and Mr Tobin Richardson, President & Chief Executive Officer of the Connectivity Standards Alliance, facilitates the mutual recognition of cybersecurity labels for consumer IoT devices.
By harmonising standards and procedures, the arrangement aims to reduce duplication in testing and costs for manufacturers, thereby fostering a more robust cybersecurity environment for consumer IoT devices globally.
Central to the MRA is the exchange and alignment of information related to relevant standards, requirements, and practices concerning the cybersecurity labeling of consumer IoT. This collaboration lays the groundwork for future developments in cybersecurity certification and labeling schemes, ensuring that evolving threats and technological advancements are adequately addressed.
Mr Chua Kuan Seah emphasised the significance of achieving global alignment for consumer IoT cybersecurity, citing it as a key objective since the launch of Singapore’s Cybersecurity Labelling Scheme in 2020. The agreement with the Alliance represents a significant step forward in this endeavor, bringing Singapore closer to its goal of establishing internationally recognised cybersecurity standards for IoT devices.
By promoting Cybersecurity-by-Design and Cybersecurity-by-Default principles, the MRA incentivises manufacturers to embed robust security measures into their IoT devices, ultimately enhancing cybersecurity for consumers worldwide.
The Connectivity Standards Alliance, formerly known as the Zigbee Alliance, is a consortium of companies devoted to developing standards envisioning seamless interaction to enhance daily experiences. With a membership of over 500 companies, the alliance collaboratively creates application profiles for interoperable products, thereby advancing IoT connectivity and fostering innovation in the industry.
Singapore remains deeply committed to bolstering cybersecurity measures both domestically and internationally. At the national level, initiatives are aimed at fortifying the nation’s digital defences, safeguarding critical infrastructure and protecting citizens and businesses from cyber threats. These efforts include the implementation of robust cybersecurity frameworks, regular cybersecurity exercises and drills, and the promotion of cybersecurity awareness among the populace.
The Cyber Security Agency of Singapore (CSA) plays a pivotal role in safeguarding Singapore’s cyberspace to bolster national security, support the digital economy, and protect the digital way of life. Through initiatives like the Singapore Cyber Emergency Response Team (SingCERT), CSA swiftly responds to cybersecurity incidents, ensuring the detection, resolution, and prevention of cyber threats.
As part of the Prime Minister’s Office and managed by the Ministry of Communications and Information, CSA oversees national cybersecurity functions, collaborates with sector leads to protect critical information infrastructure, and engages stakeholders to raise cybersecurity awareness.
OpenGov Asia reported that Singapore, represented by CSA, collaborates closely with ASEAN Member States (AMS) to establish the ASEAN Regional Computer Emergency Response Team (CERT), facilitating information-sharing and enhancing cybersecurity incident response coordination across the region.
Despite a significant increase in scam cases by nearly 50% to 50,376 in 2023 from 33,669 in 2022, proactive cybersecurity measures have led to a positive outcome. These positive trends are attributed to collaborative efforts among various agencies and stakeholders, including the Singapore Police Force, Infocomm Media Development Authority, Cyber Security Agency of Singapore, Smart Nation Group, Monetary Authority of Singapore, and private sector partners.
Singapore’s proactive efforts, including the proposal to host and fund the ASEAN Regional CERT’s physical activities, demonstrate its commitment to fostering regional cooperation and safeguarding critical information infrastructure on a transnational scale.
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In a significant advancement in health technology, scientists at Nanyang Technological University, Singapore (NTU Singapore), have unveiled a revolutionary device capable of rapidly isolating blood plasma with unparalleled precision. Named ExoArc, this coin-sized chip offers a transformative alternative to the cumbersome and time-consuming multi-step centrifugation process currently used in diagnostics and precision medicine.
ExoArc’s innovation lies in its ability to directly isolate blood plasma from a tube of blood in just 30 minutes, eliminating the need for labour-intensive centrifugation. By leveraging unique flow phenomena in tiny channels within the chip, ExoArc achieves high plasma purity, removing over 99.9% of blood cells and platelets precisely and gently.
This breakthrough technology accelerates the clinical analysis of cell-free DNA, RNA molecules, and extracellular vesicles, which are vital for screening biomarkers indicative of various cancers and diseases.
Traditionally, blood plasma isolation has relied solely on centrifugation, a method prone to residual cell contamination and time-sensitive processing constraints. Even after multiple centrifugation rounds, lingering biological cells can compromise the accuracy of diagnostic tests, prolonging waiting times for results and exacerbating patient anxiety.
ExoArc’s streamlined process significantly reduces contamination risks, enabling quicker and more precise diagnoses, particularly crucial in cancer treatment and disease management.
To validate ExoArc’s efficacy, a portable prototype device was developed in collaboration with clinician-scientists from the National Cancer Centre Singapore (NCCS), Tan Tock Seng Hospital (TTSH), and the Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A*STAR). Clinical validation demonstrated ExoArc’s ability to diagnose non-small cell lung cancer with a sensitivity of 90%, highlighting its potential for real-world applications.
Furthermore, ExoArc’s versatility extends beyond cancer diagnostics, as demonstrated in studies involving microRNA analysis in individuals with type 2 diabetes mellitus. By identifying distinct microRNA profiles, ExoArc holds promise in identifying disease-related biomarkers and driving precision medicine initiatives, offering tailored treatments and improving patient outcomes.
In contrast to conventional centrifugation methods, ExoArc’s compact size and scalability present a transformative approach to blood plasma isolation. Its one-step process reduces processing time and operator variability, paving the way for automated and standardised diagnostic procedures. Moreover, ExoArc’s potential for scaling up through multiple channels ensures faster and more consistent plasma isolation, with future automation promising further efficiency gains and cost reductions.
Supported by a Proof-of-Concept and Proof-of-Value grant from the NTUitive Gap Fund, ExoArc epitomises NTU’s commitment to translating research into practical innovations with societal impact. With contributions from esteemed institutions such as the Massachusetts Institute of Technology and the University of Texas Medical Branch (Galveston), ExoArc’s development underscores collaborative efforts in advancing healthcare technology.
ExoArc represents a significant leap forward in health technology, offering a paradigm shift in blood plasma isolation for diagnostics and precision medicine. As ExoArc continues to evolve, its potential to enhance patient care and drive medical advancements holds promise for a healthier future globally.
NTU Singapore has positioned itself at the vanguard of deploying cutting-edge technology within the healthcare sector, striving relentlessly to pioneer advancements that not only enhance patient outcomes but also revolutionise the overall healthcare experience.
OpenGov Asia reported that a team of researchers from NTU Singapore developed WellFeet, a mobile application designed to provide comprehensive support for individuals living with diabetes. WellFeet educates patients and caregivers about the disease while assisting them in monitoring medication adherence, physical activity, and dietary habits, addressing the myriad challenges associated with diabetes management.
WellFeet offers tech-enabled support for individuals with diabetes and their caregivers, serving as a vital source of empowerment and assistance. As Singapore tackles its diabetes epidemic, initiatives like WellFeet pave the way for transformative healthcare solutions with the potential to change lives.
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Recognising exemplary projects that harness ICTs for sustainable development goals, the World Summit on the Information Society (WSIS) Prizes celebrate outstanding achievements in leveraging information and communication technology.
The World Summit on the Information Society (WSIS), a United Nations initiative co-hosted by the International Telecommunication Union (ITU) and the Swiss Confederation, stands as a pivotal platform focusing on the transformative power of information and communication technologies (ICTs) in society. With a mission to bridge the digital divide and harness ICTs for inclusive social and economic development, the WSIS process underscores a structured, inclusive approach at global, regional, and national levels.
Among the exceptional entrants in the WSIS Prizes 2024 is the “Mobile-enabled Disaster Resilience through Cell Broadcast Emergency Alerting” project developed by the Centre for Development of Telematics (C-DOT), a premier Telecom R&D centre under the Department of Telecommunications, Ministry of Communications, Government of India.
C-DOT’s solution has qualified in the category of “Benefits in all aspects of life – E-environment,” amidst a competitive field of over 1000 global entries. The “Mobile-enabled Disaster Resilience through Cell Broadcast Emergency Alerting” system represents a state-of-the-art, indigenous solution designed to deliver critical, life-saving emergency information instantly to mobile phones via cellular telecom networks in a broadcast mode. Through distinct tones and pop-up notifications, the system ensures effective alerting, capturing user attention in real-time during critical situations.
This end-to-end solution facilitates geo-targeted emergency alerts to citizens’ mobile phones, seamlessly integrating government emergency alert dissemination platforms with the country’s telecom networks for rapid information delivery to a large population within seconds. With ITU Common Alerting Protocol (CAP) X.1303 interfaces, the solution enables connectivity with CAP-based alert dissemination platforms and offers interworking connectors for seamless integration with the unique network architectures of any telecom operator.
Beyond disaster and emergency scenarios, C-DOT’s solution finds applicability across various sectors, including government directives, law enforcement, defence, industrial and advertising domains. Its capacity to disseminate timely alerts proves invaluable in situations requiring immediate attention, such as earthquakes, lightning, tsunamis, and more.
Accompanying C-DOT’s solution in the competition are other qualified products and solutions within the same category. Through a voting process, projects garnering significant support will progress to the next round. Given the life-saving potential of this indigenous “Make in India” solution, C-DOT urges support through casting votes, thereby advancing its innovative solution to the forefront of global recognition.
India’s position as a frontrunner in the international telecommunications arena has been validated as Dr Neeraj Mittal, Secretary of the Department of Telecommunications, Government of India, spearheaded a prestigious delegation to the headquarters of the International Telecommunication Union (ITU) in Geneva.
Dr Neeraj Mittal’s appointment as Co-chair of the Digital Innovation Board at the ITU marks a pivotal moment, signifying India’s pivotal leadership role in fostering digital innovation on a global scale. This significant designation not only acknowledges India’s profound expertise and contributions within the telecommunications sphere but also underscores its steadfast commitment to propelling transformative endeavours that harness technology for widespread socio-economic progress and inclusive growth worldwide.
Participation in the Mobile World Congress 2024 (MWC24) highlights India’s dedication to technological progress and international cooperation in the telecommunications sector. The conference, themed “Future First” and hosted by GSMA, stressed industry unity and innovation to unlock future potential, aligning with India’s vision for digital transformation and socio-economic advancement.
Led by Dr. Neeraj Mittal, India’s representation at MWC24 showcased the nation’s telecom advancements and global partnerships. Secretary Mittal reaffirmed India’s commitment to leveraging cutting-edge technology as a driver for socio-economic development. He emphasized that India’s unwavering focus on innovation not only fuels economic growth but also addresses critical social issues and enhances citizens’ well-being.
Through strategic initiatives and collaborative endeavours, India actively integrates advanced technologies into its developmental agenda, fostering inclusive growth and laying the groundwork for a more prosperous future for all.
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As the rapid advancement of artificial intelligence (AI) technologies continues to reshape the world, the need for responsible governance and oversight has become increasingly evident. In a landmark decision, the United Nations General Assembly has taken a pivotal step forward in the regulation and promotion of artificial intelligence technologies with the adoption of a groundbreaking resolution.
Led by the United States and co-sponsored by over 120 Member States, this resolution underscores the imperative of developing and utilising AI systems that are not only technologically advanced but also safe, secure, and trustworthy. At its core, the resolution seeks to harness the transformative potential of AI while upholding fundamental human rights and advancing sustainable development goals on a global scale.
The adoption of this resolution represents a significant milestone in international efforts to navigate the complex landscape of AI governance. For the first time in its history, the General Assembly has formally recognised the need to regulate the burgeoning field of AI, acknowledging its profound impact on societies worldwide. The resolution serves as a testament to the growing recognition of AI’s potential to drive progress across various sectors, from healthcare and education to economic development and environmental sustainability.
Central to the resolution’s principles is the paramount importance of upholding human rights in the development and deployment of AI systems. It emphasises the need to respect, protect, and promote human rights throughout all stages of the AI lifecycle, including design, development, deployment, and usage. By affirming the principle that the same rights enjoyed offline must also be safeguarded online, the resolution underscores the necessity of accountability and ethical governance in the realm of AI.
Furthermore, the resolution highlights AI’s role in advancing sustainable development goals, recognising its potential to accelerate progress towards achieving the ambitious targets set forth by the United Nations. By harnessing the power of AI-driven innovation, Member States can unlock new opportunities for inclusive growth, enhance access to essential services, and address pressing global challenges such as poverty, inequality, and climate change.
A key aspect of the resolution is its call for collaboration and cooperation among Member States and stakeholders to bridge the technological divide and ensure equitable access to AI technologies. Recognising the varying levels of technological development between and within countries, the resolution urges support for developing nations to help them leverage AI for inclusive and sustainable development. By closing the digital divide and enhancing digital literacy, Member States can empower individuals and communities to fully participate in the digital economy and society.
Speaking before the adoption of the resolution, US Ambassador and Permanent Representative to the UN, Linda Thomas-Greenfield, underscored the importance of governing AI technology responsibly. She emphasised the opportunity and responsibility of the international community to shape the future of AI, ensuring that it aligns with principles of humanity, dignity, safety, and security. Thomas-Greenfield called for a collective commitment to using AI as a tool for advancing shared priorities and closing digital disparities, thereby fostering a more equitable and inclusive world.
The adoption of this historic resolution by the UN General Assembly marks a significant milestone in the global dialogue on AI governance. By promoting the development and use of safe, secure, and trustworthy AI systems, Member States are laying the groundwork for a future where AI serves as a force for positive change, driving sustainable development and advancing human well-being. As we embark on this transformative journey, it is imperative that we remain vigilant in safeguarding human rights, promoting ethical AI governance, and ensuring that the benefits of AI are shared by all.