The day-long symposium, held at Vivekananda Hall, CSIR-NIScPR, brought together leading experts from India and abroad to deliberate on the role of human-centred artificial intelligence in securing sustainable and inclusive energy futures.
Delivering the welcome address, Dr. Geetha Vani Rayasam, Director, CSIR-NIScPR, emphasised the need for safe, trusted and human-centric AI systems. She noted that the symposium aimed to generate actionable ideas to help policymakers frame responsible AI frameworks aligned with sustainable development goals.
AI Must Enable, Not Replace Humans: Experts
The inaugural address was delivered by the Chief Guest, Dr. Ashutosh Sharma, former President of the Indian National Science Academy and Institute Chair Professor at IIT Kanpur. He highlighted the dual nature of AI technologies, describing them as having both “lights and shadows”.
Dr. Sharma stressed that AI must act as an enabler rather than a replacement, opening new opportunities to address challenges that were previously difficult to solve.
Global Perspectives on Energy Transition
Dr. Nadia Asheulova from the Russian Academy of Sciences observed that India’s philosophical traditions offer a rich foundation for thinking about multiple forms of intelligence. She noted that the transition to renewable energy systems presents deeply social and institutional challenges beyond technological solutions.
Dr. Vivek Singh, Senior Adviser at NITI Aayog, underlined India’s balanced approach to AI, which promotes innovation while safeguarding societal interests. He reassured that reskilling and upskilling initiatives would enable people to work alongside AI systems.
Deliberations on Ethics, Equity and Inclusion
Keynote and technical sessions focused on ethical AI frameworks, data-driven decision-making and inclusive innovation. Experts discussed AI-driven pathways for energy security, equity and governance.
Panel discussions highlighted the need for robust research ecosystems, international collaboration and responsible deployment of AI technologies to ensure sustainable energy transitions.
AI’s Role in Shaping Sustainable Energy Futures
The symposium concluded with a high-level panel discussion on AI pathways towards energy security, examining opportunities, risks and institutional readiness. Speakers agreed that AI-powered solutions, supported by aligned policies and multidisciplinary research, will play a pivotal role in shaping future energy systems.
The valedictory session reaffirmed CSIR-NIScPR’s commitment to advancing science-informed policy and human-centred AI approaches.