Mains Practice Questions

Introduction:

Emerging technologies such as Artificial Intelligence (AI), Big Data, and Digital Governance are revolutionising public administration by improving efficiency, decision-making, and service delivery. They enable predictive analytics, citizen-centric services, and real-time governance. However, the adoption of these technologies also presents significant ethical challenges, including risks of bias, exclusion, privacy violations, and reduced accountability.

Body :

Ethical Challenges of Emerging Technologies

• Bias and Discrimination: AI systems and algorithmic decision-making can unintentionally reflect societal prejudices, leading to discriminatory outcomes.
  • For instance, predictive policing algorithms in some countries have disproportionately targeted marginalised communities, reinforcing structural inequalities.
  • Similarly, welfare allocation using biased data could disadvantage certain social groups.
• Privacy and Data Protection: The extensive use of Big Data in governance raises concerns over personal data misuse and surveillance.
  • For instance, large-scale digital health records or financial data stored without sufficient safeguards, risking breaches or exploitation.
  • Ethical deployment requires consent, confidentiality, and strict data protection measures.
• Transparency and Accountability: Automated decision-making may result in opaque processes, making it difficult for citizens or officials to understand why a particular decision was made.
  • For example, AI-driven benefit disbursal systems may deny services without providing explanations, undermining accountability and trust in governance.
• Digital Divide and Access Inequality: While digital governance can increase efficiency, its benefits are often skewed toward urban, tech-savvy populations, leaving rural and marginalized groups behind.
  • Mobile and internet penetration gaps exacerbate inequities, potentially creating a new dimension of exclusion in service delivery.
• Security and Cyber Risks: Reliance on digital systems exposes governance to cyberattacks, manipulation, and system failures, which could compromise sensitive citizen data or disrupt critical public services.

Guiding Ethical Frameworks for Adoption

• Principles-Based Approach: Adopt fairness, accountability, transparency, and inclusivity as guiding principles.
  • India’s NITI Aayog AI Ethics Guidelines emphasize responsible AI deployment aligned with these values.
• Responsible Innovation: Encourage stakeholder participation, risk assessment, and pilot testing before scaling.
  • For example, AI applications in agriculture should be tested with local farmers to ensure equitable benefits and contextual relevance.
• Privacy by Design and Security Measures: Embed data protection, consent protocols, and cybersecurity safeguards at every stage of technology deployment.
  • Compliance with the Data Protection Act, 2023 ensures ethical use of citizen data.
• Regular Audits and Accountability Mechanisms: Independent audits of AI algorithms, data usage, and digital governance platforms are essential to ensure ethical compliance and accountability.
• Capacity Building and Awareness: Training administrators and citizens on digital literacy, ethical use of AI, and data rights strengthens responsible adoption and fosters trust in technology-driven governance.

Conclusion :

As John Rawls noted, “Justice is the first virtue of social institutions,” emphasising that equitable and principled governance must guide technology adoption. By institutionalising ethical standards, training, and oversight, India can ensure that emerging technologies serve society equitably and strengthen democratic governance.