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Emerging advancements in Generative AI are poised to transform Indian governmental services. Recent demonstrations at the Microsoft Build Conference underscored the power of multilingual chatbots, offering a glimpse into a future where such technology is an integral part of public service provision. The Indian government’s engagement with AI technology forms a significant part of its commitment to exploring and capitalizing on digital potential.

Indian Government’s AI Integration Plans

The AWS India Summit held in Mumbai showcased the Indian government’s interest in generative AI. Aimed at creating widespread benefits, the potential applications span across various departments and initiatives. The government’s intent to harness the power of AI will unfold in the months to come.

Leveraging ChatGPT

February saw news emerge about the Ministry of Electronics and IT (MeitY) integrating ChatGPT with WhatsApp. This move aimed at empowering Indian farmers with accessible information about government schemes. The Minister for Electronics and IT, Ashwini Vaishnaw, divulged that efforts are underway to develop technology akin to ChatGPT.

Potential of Large Language Models (LLMs)

OpenAI’s Large Language Models (LLMs) like GPT3.5 and GPT-4, which power ChatGPT, have tremendous implications for the Indian government. By applying generative AI, processes associated with delivering government schemes and services can be automated and enhanced. The technology facilitates improved administrative efficiency, accurate information provision, and personalized responses.

Overcoming Language Barriers with Bhasini

One challenge for LLMs is their reliance on English data. This limitation hampers their functionality with non-English languages. Addressing this problem is Bhasini, an initiative designed to develop large datasets for Indic languages. It aims to make language barriers irrelevant across industries.

Jugalbandi: The Multilingual AI Chatbot

The Microsoft Build Conference displayed the potential of Generative AI with a multilingual chatbot, named Jugalbandi, developed in India. This AI tool facilitates the provision of government services to rural citizens. The system translates English documents into user’s native languages, demonstrating its potential in bridging language gaps.

Jugalbandi, currently available in 10 official languages, covers 171 out of approximately 20,000 government programmes. The capacity for integration with WhatsApp enhances its accessibility.

The Future of LLMs in Government Services

As technology continues to evolve, the ubiquity of LLMs in government services seems inevitable. They stand to power government chatbots, transforming interactions between citizens and government services. In addition, LLMs will help in administrative tasks, leading to a transformative shift in bureaucratic functioning.