OpenAI, the developer behind ChatGPT, has made a significant move by hiring its first employee in India. According to a Bloomberg report, Pragya Misra, previously associated with Truecaller AB and Meta Platforms Inc., will spearhead public policy affairs and partnerships for OpenAI in India.
The appointment underlines the company's strategic focus on navigating India's regulatory landscape and tapping into its vast potential as a key market for AI technologies.
India, with its massive population and fast-growing economy, presents both opportunities and challenges for global tech companies like OpenAI. According to a BCG-nasscom report, India’s AI market is growing at a CAGR of 25-35 per cent and is projected to reach around $17 billion by 2027.
As governments worldwide grapple with regulating rapidly advancing AI technologies, Misra's role becomes crucial in advocating for favorable rules that support innovation while addressing local concerns.
During his visit to India last year, OpenAI CEO Sam Altman stressed the importance of integrating AI technologies into government services, such as healthcare, to drive societal benefits. Altman's discussions with Prime Minister Narendra Modi and recognition of India's early adoption of ChatGPT demonstrate OpenAI's strategic interest in the Indian market and its commitment to responsible AI deployment.
Altman's calls for more regulations and acknowledgment of potential harm from AI highlight OpenAI's proactive stance on ethical AI development. As AI technologies continue to evolve rapidly, the need for thoughtful regulation becomes increasingly urgent to ensure they contribute positively to society while mitigating risks.