Afternoon edition
Daily current affairs for UPSC, BPSC, State PCS and PSC exams.
Why in news?
The Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) is engaging with the AI company Anthropic regarding concerns over its AI model named 'Mythos', which a senior official described as a 'real threat'.
Key points
- MeitY Secretary S. Krishnan expressed concerns over the AI model 'Mythos'.
- The government is in communication with Anthropic, the developer of Mythos.
- The issue was highlighted at a conference on 'AI Governance: Ethics, Data Protection and Legal Framework'.
- The conference was supported by MeitY and organized by various academic and research institutions.
Background & context
Artificial Intelligence (AI) governance is becoming a critical area of focus globally, with governments exploring ethical considerations, data protection, and legal frameworks to manage the development and deployment of AI technologies. Companies like Anthropic are at the forefront of AI development, making their models a subject of regulatory interest.
★ Prelims fact capsule
The conference on AI Governance was supported by MeitY.
✎ Mains relevance
GS Paper III: Science and Technology, Governance
Why in news?
A Leader of Opposition in the West Bengal Assembly alleged that a Trinamool Congress councillor procured 'artificial fingers' to facilitate bogus voting during the ongoing Assembly elections.
Key points
- Allegation of procurement of over 700 'artificial fingers'.
- The purpose was to enable fraudulent voting in the Bhabanipur constituency.
- The charge was dismissed by the Trinamool Congress.
- This raises concerns about the integrity of the electoral process.
Background & context
Electoral malpractice and allegations of voter fraud are recurring issues in elections across India. Measures like voter identification and security protocols are in place to prevent such occurrences. The use of technology or materials to bypass these systems is a serious concern.
★ Prelims fact capsule
The allegation specifically mentions the Bhabanipur constituency.
✎ Mains relevance
GS Paper II: Governance, Elections, Polity
Why in news?
The Kerala High Court directed the Chief Electoral Officer (CEO) to take action within three days regarding allegations of the material room adjacent to the EVM strongroom being opened.
Key points
- EVMs from eight Assembly constituencies in Kozhikode are stored at JDT Islam Education Complex.
- A plea was filed by the Kozhikode District Congress Committee president.
- Allegation that the material room was opened by returning officers along with laptops.
- The High Court has issued an interim order for swift action.
Background & context
Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs) are central to India's electoral system. Security of EVMs and strongrooms is paramount to maintain public trust in the electoral process. Any breach or alleged tampering necessitates thorough investigation and transparent action.
★ Prelims fact capsule
The EVMs in question are from eight Assembly constituencies in Kozhikode.
✎ Mains relevance
GS Paper II: Governance, Elections, Polity