Institutional knowledge of humans central to developing accountable AI for Parliaments: Deputy Chairman Harivansh

Deputy Chairman Rajya Sabha Harivansh highlighted the importance of institutional memory of humans in shaping application of Artificial Intelligence in legislatures. Harivansh emphasised that if AI is to enter legislatures, it must become accountable, contextual, and trustworthy. He made these remarks at the workshop on the adoption of AI in Parliament at the 28th Conference of Speakers and Presiding Officers of the Commonwealth in New Delhi. During his addresses he also listed the various digital and AI tools being developed for efficient functioning within the Indian Parliament.

Contextualising the need for hybrid approach to developing AI he added, “When a human enters a new organisation, they bring with them two essential attributes: skill and knowledge. Skills can be acquired, transferred, or outsourced. Knowledge, however, is contextual and deeply embedded within the institution. Parliamentary knowledge is unique. It is built over decades through debates, rulings, conventions, and constitutional practices. The same principle applies equally to Artificial Intelligence.” He further added that Institutional knowledge of humans is central to developing accountable AI for Parliaments.

“Human oversight and the ability to intervene must be integral to the system. Innovation without restraint carries risk, while restraint without innovation can lead to stagnation.” Therefore, Parliament must maintain a careful and deliberate balance between the two, he added(updated on 15th january 2026)