GS4 · UPSC Mains

Raghav is the Chief Technology Officer (CTO) of a fast-growing tech company in South Asia that designs and deploys AI systems for public services like education and policing. Recently, the company secured a large government contract to implement facial recognition and predictive analytics systems in public schools and police departments. The project is significant for the company's growth and is being closely monitored by international investors and government agencies. However, two major concerns have emerged. First, internal audits show that the AI systems are not adequately trained on local data. They frequently misidentify individuals from tribal and minority backgrounds and unfairly flag behavioral issues among students from these communities. The software also lacks support for vernacular languages and neurodivergent users, raising concerns about exclusion and discrimination. Second, environmental groups have raised objections to the company's rising carbon footprint due to the expansion of energy-intensive data centers. There has been a 42% increase in emissions over the last two years. Raghav now faces a serious ethical dilemma: whether to push ahead with deployment to maintain momentum and company interests, or pause and resolve these concerns, knowing it may slow down progress and create internal friction. (a) Identify and discuss the ethical issues involved in the case. (b) Critically examine the options available to Raghav in this situation. (c) Which of the above options should Raghav adopt and why? Justify your answer using principles of ethics and professional responsibility. (20 marks, 250 words)

20 marks · 250 words · 5 toppers answered this

GS4 · Public/civil service values & ethics in public administration — status & problems; ethical concerns & dilemmas; conflict of interest

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