Politics · India Bureau
AI growth mustn't be stifled, but unchecked use risky: Mittal
Bharti Airtel Chairman Sunil Mittal has called for proactive AI regulation, warning that waiting for a crisis before acting would be irresponsible. Speaking at the Bloomberg New Economy Forum, he stressed the need for governments to establish guardrails now as the technology rapidly reshapes society.
LSN India ·
Sunil Mittal on Wednesday advocated for a balanced approach to artificial intelligence governance, cautioning against both excessive restriction and complacency. While asserting that AI technology and its growth should not be constrained, the Bharti Airtel chairman warned that proceeding without safeguards would prove "foolish."
Addressing policymakers at the Bloomberg New Economy Forum 2026, Mittal highlighted the widening gap between technological advancement and regulatory capacity. Governments worldwide are struggling to keep pace with the rapid evolution of AI, he noted, creating an urgent need for thoughtful regulatory frameworks before crises occur.
Mittal pointed to India's efforts in this space, referencing the consultation paper on AI regulations and guardrails being developed domestically. He underscored growing concerns from global technology leaders regarding instances of AI systems behaving unpredictably or operating beyond intended parameters—issues that demand serious attention from policymakers.
"There is scrambling in government corridors as policymakers grapple with how to secure the nation while introducing AI across every aspect of life," Mittal said. The challenge, he suggested, lies in crafting regulations that enable innovation while establishing necessary safeguards, requiring foresight and coordination between industry and government stakeholders.