DeepSeek’s AI

Deepseek, a Chinese startup, has disrupted the global AI landscape with its model, DeepSeek-R1. Achieving performance comparable to American giants like OpenAI at a fraction of the cost, DeepSeek has redefined AI’s financial and technological dynamics. Its success demonstrates that ingenuity can outpace massive investments, but it also raises ethical questions about transparency and freedom in AI systems. DeepSeek’s refusal to engage on politically sensitive topics highlights the intersection of technological advancement and censorship. When asked if Arunachal Pradesh is an Indian state, the chatbot responded, “Sorry, that’s beyond my current scope. Let’s talk about something else.” Likewise, when asked about the 1989 Tiananmen Square massacre, DeepSeek replied, “Sorry, that’s beyond my current scope.” Such responses expose the AI’s alignment with Chinese government censorship policies, reinforcing concerns about using AI as a tool for state propaganda and control.

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For India, this holds lessons in both innovation and censorship. Despite its digital progress, its limited R&D spending (0.7 per cent of GDP compared to 2.7 per cent in the USA and 2.1 per cent in China) and fragmented innovation ecosystem hinder its ability to compete globally. It must endeavour to transition from a service-driven tech sector to one rooted in innovation. The authorities must foster robust R&D frameworks, incentivise startups and expand the National AI Mission. And, while doing so, it must promote ethical AI systems that uphold democratic values. By leveraging its cost-efficient ‘jugaad’ mindset, India can create AI solutions that are both accessible and transparent. Policymakers must adopt agile frameworks to regulate emerging technologies while safeguarding against censorship and control.

DeepSeek’s rise is a wake-up call for the world to adapt and innovate while ensuring AI systems reflect ethical practices and democratic ideals as it marches faster into the AI era.