AI must become a force multiplier, not a saviour: Priyank Kharge at Bengaluru event

Bengaluru: Artificial Intelligence should be used responsibly to solve real-world challenges, state IT/BT minister Priyank Kharge said on Wednesday.

Karnataka will continue strengthening its AI ecosystem through deeptech innovation, startup support, skilling initiatives and research partnerships, the minister said in a statement.

Inaugurating the International Conference on “Leveraging Artificial Intelligence to Advance Sustainable Development Goals” in Bengaluru, Kharge said AI has the potential to address challenges across healthcare, education, agriculture and governance.


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“Artificial Intelligence is not a saviour. It has no conscience, no courage and no compassion. But in the hands of people who possess conscience, courage and compassion, it becomes a force multiplier,” he said.

The minister said technology must remain human-centric and should empower doctors, farmers, governments and young innovators to build solutions that improve people’s lives.

Kharge said AI can support healthcare through early disease detection and affordable diagnostics, help farmers through satellite imagery, weather intelligence and predictive analytics, and enable smarter public services.

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He also urged students to develop strong fundamentals, scientific temper and critical thinking alongside AI skills. Universities, he said, should focus on research, innovation, entrepreneurship and employability.

The conference, organised by the Wolverhampton–Bengaluru Centre for Research & Innovation (1WBCR&I), brought together researchers, academicians, industry leaders and students to discuss AI applications for sustainable development and emerging innovations.