`AI a double-edged sword': CM Revanth calls for tech safeguards at Harvard symposium

Hyderabad: Terming artificial intelligence (AI) a `double-edged sword’, Telangana Chief Minister A. Revanth Reddy, on Friday, called for early safeguards to prevent the misuse of rapidly evolving technology

Describing AI as one of the most transformative innovations in human history, he noted that concerns over its increasing autonomy are valid, but the technology is irreversible and will continue to expand its influence across sectors.

First Indian speaker at maiden symposium

Delivering the keynote address at the maiden AI symposium hosted by the Harvard Kennedy School, the Chief Minister said he was proud to be the first Indian speaker at the event.

He termed it a recognition of Telangana’s growing global stature and also recalled his personal association as a recent alumnus of the institution.

AI to reshape, not replace jobs

Revanth Reddy observed that while AI will not completely replace human roles, it will significantly transform the nature of work across sectors such as healthcare, law, architecture, media, and policymaking.

However, he acknowledged that entry-level jobs and workforce requirements in large organisations may decline even as productivity increases.

Hyderabad at the Centre of Change

Highlighting Telangana’s preparedness, he said the State is proactively addressing potential disruptions, especially in Hyderabad, which has emerged as a major hub for global capability centres across IT, pharma, healthcare, manufacturing, and aerospace sectors.

‘Bharat Future City’ and AI Hub

The Chief Minister announced plans for developing the “Bharat Future City,” which will feature a dedicated Artificial Intelligence City aimed at becoming a global hub for AI innovation and applications.

Push for Green Data Centres, Manufacturing

He said Telangana is planning large-scale AI data centres powered by green energy, while strengthening its manufacturing ecosystem to position the State as a “China+1” alternative.

Simultaneously, sectors such as tourism, sustainability, electric mobility, and infrastructure are being expanded to generate employment opportunities less vulnerable to automation.

Skilling push and ‘People Credits’ proposal

Emphasising the need for workforce readiness, Revanth Reddy highlighted efforts to build a robust skilling and reskilling ecosystem in collaboration with global institutions.

He also proposed the concept of “people credits,” suggesting that AI-driven companies contribute towards compensating job losses, similar to carbon credit mechanisms.

Strong pitch to global investors

Inviting global investors, the Chief Minister noted that Hyderabad already hosts over 100 Fortune 500 companies. He assured that Telangana offers a conducive ecosystem with strong opportunities in AI, green energy, infrastructure, and sustainability, along with promising returns on investment.

Call for ethical AI governance

Concluding his address, Revanth Reddy stressed the need for ethical and responsible AI governance frameworks. He expressed confidence that global collaboration through such platforms would help shape a balanced and inclusive future for artificial intelligence.