Politics and Policy of AI
Important Dates
Programme Begins
Saturday, 13 September 2025
Early Bird Deadline (10% scholarship)
Sunday, 10 August 2025
Application Deadline
Sunday, 7 September 2025
Programme Ends
Saturday, 4 October 2025
The rapid advancements in artificial intelligence have sparked pressing questions for individuals, societies, markets, and governments alike. How will AI reshape the job market and exacerbate inequality? What implications does this hold for constitutional values? As generative tools transform how we discover information, can we foster AI innovation while protecting creators' livelihoods? Is AI a transformative general-purpose technology, or might it lead to superintelligence, shifting the global balance of power? What governance frameworks are states crafting to guide AI's responsible development?
This course aims to explore these complex issues, fostering informed perspectives on the political and policy dimensions of AI's impact. Designed for technologists, researchers, policymakers, and curious minds, it presents the knowledge and analytical frameworks through webinars, case studies, expert guest lectures, and discussions. Participants will engage with real-world dilemmas, gaining insights into evolving AI governance strategies and positioning themselves to contribute meaningfully to this dynamic landscape.
Eligibility and Admission Process
Applicants must have an undergraduate degree in any discipline. Interested candidates should complete the application form, which will be evaluated by Takshashila’s Academic Committee. Please take some time to reflect while filling out the application form and the statement of purpose. The Committee places significant emphasis on this response during the application review process, so you are encouraged to complete it with sincerity and diligence.
Pedagogy
The course employs a blended learning approach, integrating live expert-led webinars with classroom discussions. Participants will also be encouraged to use AI tools to support learning and self-assessments.
On Completion
Participants who meet the course requirements will receive a Certificate of Achievement from the Takshashila Institution.
Course Overview: PPAI1 Demystifying AI
PPAI11: How Machines Think
This unit traces AI's evolution from early expert systems to deep learning. It explains how machine learning models learn by detecting data patterns and adjusting weights, providing a foundational understanding of AI's technical mechanics.
PPAI12: When Algorithms Fail - Limits, Biases, and “Snake Oil”
Through real-world examples, this unit explores AI's inherent limitations, biases, and failure modes. It critiques overhyped claims while setting realistic expectations for AI capabilities.
Course Overview: PPAI2 The Politics, Policy and Governance of AI
PPAI21: The Socio-Economic Impact of AI Diffusion
This unit examines the effects of AI adoption on society and the economy. It explores questions such as whether AI will result in job losses, whether returns on capital will surpass returns on labour, and who the potential winners and losers will be.
PPAI22 AI: Copyright and Market Power
Given the extensive data on which AI is trained, this unit examines the implications for creators' rights and intellectual property. It discusses the necessary balance between fostering innovation and protecting creators' livelihoods in a changing market landscape.
PPAI24: The State of AI Governance
This unit reviews current governance efforts by governments, companies, and multistakeholder gatherings. It evaluates the revealed priorities by assessing the governance measures against the opportunities and risks involved.
PPAI23: Geopolitics of AI
This unit examines differing perspectives on AI as a transformative technology and a strategic asset. It analyses the competition between the US and China in AI development and the pursuit of technological sovereignty.
Fee Structure
The programme fee for individuals is ₹10,000 (plus GST). Once paid, fees are non-refundable.
We offer a 20% scholarship for students and Takshashila alumni, and the fee is ₹8,000 plus GST.
Frequently Asked Questions
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Indian nationals with an undergraduate degree in any discipline.
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The course is a 4-week programme.
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The programme is delivered online through live webinars.
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There will be two live online webinars every week, each lasting 90 minutes. Students will need to spend approximately 2-3 hours per week on readings and preparations. Therefore, the total amount of time that a student will be expected to spend in a week would be approximately six hours.
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The programme fee for individuals is ₹10,000 (plus GST). Once paid, fees are non-refundable.
We offer a 20% scholarship for students and Takshashila alumni, and the fee is ₹8,000 plus GST.
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No application fee is required.
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The Capsule Courses are an independent certificate programme of the Takshashila Institution and is not affiliated to any university.
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Admissions to the course are on a rolling basis. The last day for applications is Sunday, 7th September, 2025.
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Email your queries at gctp@takshashila.org.in
