Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed concerns on Friday about the use of artificial intelligence for creating deepfakes, emphasizing the potential for a significant crisis. Speaking at the BJP's 'Diwali Milan' event in New Delhi, Modi urged the media to play a pivotal role in educating the public about the misuse and impact of deepfake technology.
Modi cited a personal example, mentioning a video circulating online that depicted him singing at a garba festival, a claim he humorously refuted. He highlighted the potential societal crisis posed by deepfakes in a diverse society, where misinformation could lead to disaffection.
The Prime Minister acknowledged the challenges of verifying content in a society that lacks a comprehensive verification system. Deepfake videos, a product of synthetic media, involve replacing a person's likeness in an existing image or video with someone else's.
Modi drew attention to the evolving nature of controversies, noting that films with controversial comments now escalate into significant issues, impacting social harmony. He suggested that, similar to health warnings on cigarette packages, deepfakes should carry disclosures to inform viewers of their synthetic nature.
Addressing the media, Modi reiterated his vision for a 'Viksit Bharat' (developed India) by 2047, emphasizing the importance of ground reality over rhetoric. He encouraged the media to support the 'vocal for local' campaign, highlighting the substantial business conducted during the Diwali week, including Chhath-related activities.
Reflecting on India's achievements during the COVID-19 pandemic, Modi spoke of the country's confidence and its role in hosting a Global South summit attended by around 130 countries. He urged the media to focus on highlighting India's strengths truthfully, fostering discourse on ideas related to a developed India and a thriving economy.
As festivals like 'Chhath' gain broader recognition, Modi acknowledged the global impact of electronic media on events like Durga Puja and Navratri. The Prime Minister concluded by noting the visible disappearance of COVID-19 in the festive spirit and emphasizing the importance of regular health check-ups, especially for journalists facing a hectic and stressful lifestyle.
.jpg)