IIT Madras Pravartak Technologies Foundation has unveiled the Centre for Human-Centric Artificial Intelligence (CHAI), an initiative aimed at leveraging artificial intelligence to amplify human potential and deliver impactful solutions in key domains. The Centre will focus on technology development, fostering entrepreneurship, building human resources, and enabling global collaborations.
The Centre was launched on November 14, 2024 at IIT Madras Research Park in the presence of Lt.Gen. KS Brar, AVSM, GoC Dakshin Bharat; Prof. V. Kamakoti, Director, IIT Madras; Dr. M.J. Shankar Raman, CEO, IIT-M Pravartak Technologies Foundation; Prof. Gaurav Raina, Chief Scientist, CHAI, students, researchers and other stakeholders.
CHAI operates under IIT-M Pravartak Technologies Foundation, which is funded by the Department of Science and Technology, Government of India. The Foundation is already engaged in national projects, collaborating with entities such as the Supreme Court of India, Sansad TV, and the Indian Army.
Advancing Human-Centric AI
Setting the vision for CHAI, Prof. V. Kamakoti highlighted the significance of human-centric AI systems, emphasising explainability and responsibility as core principles. “These systems are crucial for ensuring user trust and adoption,” he stated. Lt. Gen. Brar called for a future where AI empowers humanity, enhancing lives and fostering a better world.
The Centre’s activities align with Industry 5.0 principles, focusing on human-centricity, sustainability, and translational research. It aims to deliver impactful solutions across domains such as education, healthcare, financial services, cybersecurity, and cultural preservation.
Key Areas of Research and Innovation
CHAI will tackle critical challenges, including:
- Language Models: Developing small, domain-specific models tailored for contextualized and non-English datasets, with a strong emphasis on Indian languages.
- Responsible AI: Ensuring innovations prioritize ethics, safety, and privacy while addressing issues like bias and disinformation.
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Capacity Building and Collaboration
The Centre will offer internships and research opportunities for students nationwide, fostering a pipeline of AI talent. Students at IIT Madras can engage in advanced research, co-guided by CHAI experts, strengthening India’s capacity for AI innovation.
Additionally, the Centre will collaborate with government agencies, industries, startups, and academic institutions to create solutions with both local and global impact. Applications will span from enhancing education and healthcare to protecting citizens through cybersecurity and preserving India’s rich cultural heritage.
