AI for Social Good: Highlights from the Inaugural All About AI Tech4Good Awards 2024

The inaugural All About AI Tech4Good Awards, sponsored by Salesforce, took place at the prestigious Jio World Centre in Mumbai on November 27th, celebrating the transformative potential of AI-driven solutions that are changing the world for the better. This landmark event not only showcased the cutting-edge technology of today but also underscored how AI is tackling some of the world’s most pressing challenges and driving meaningful social change.

With a focus on both innovation and social good, the awards recognized trailblazing organizations, startups, and individuals who are leveraging AI to improve lives and uplift communities. From revolutionizing healthcare to tackling climate change and empowering marginalized populations, the winners exemplified how AI can be a powerful force for hope, progress, and societal transformation.

India at the Forefront of AI-Driven Social Change

Arundhati Bhattacharya, CEO & Chairperson of Salesforce India, highlighted India’s unique position to lead the global AI revolution. “India stands at the forefront of the global AI revolution, uniquely positioned to harness its transformative potential,” she remarked. “With an exceptional talent pool, a wealth of complex challenges, and a rapidly evolving digital landscape, the nation is primed to drive AI-powered economic growth and meaningful social change.”

The Tech4Good Awards showcased the remarkable work coming out of India, where AI is being used to address complex social issues across both urban and rural populations. The event highlighted the power of Indian innovation in tackling some of the world’s most critical challenges.

Salesforce: Championing Purpose-Driven Innovation

Salesforce, the driving force behind the Tech4Good Awards, has long been committed to harnessing technology for positive societal change. Becky Ferguson, CEO of the Salesforce Foundation, emphasized this vision during her address, saying, “When innovation meets purpose, the results can be transformative.” She added that the awards were a testament to AI’s potential to drive positive societal impact and contribute to a more equitable, inclusive, and sustainable world.

Event Highlights: Innovation with Purpose

The evening kicked off with a keynote from Harsh Mariwala, Founder and Chairman of Marico, who spoke on the importance of purposeful innovation. His words resonated with the audience, encouraging them to focus on innovation that not only drives progress but also creates lasting value for communities.

A dynamic fireside chat followed, featuring Dr. Shailesh Kumar, Chief Data Scientist at Reliance Jio, and Arundhati Bhattacharya. The conversation delved into how AI can revolutionize sectors like healthcare, education, and sustainability, while also emphasizing the ethical development of AI technologies.

A panel discussion on “Responsible AI: Keeping Humans in the Loop” brought together industry leaders such as Pratap Raju (Climate Collective), Sathya Prathipati (McKinsey & Company), Becky Ferguson (Salesforce Foundation), and Akhil Agrawal (Educate Girls). Moderated by Leslie D’Monte of Mint, the panel focused on ensuring that AI continues to empower, rather than displace, people, and remains rooted in human values.

Celebrating Changemakers: Award Winners

The Tech4Good Awards recognized six key categories, each celebrating impactful AI-driven initiatives that are making a difference in the world:

• Agriculture and Food Security
  Gold: Aquaconnect | Silver: Fyllo
• Sustainable Environment
  Gold: Taypro | Silver: Ugam Gramin Vikas Sanstha
• Health and Sanitation
  Gold: AIIMS | Silver: Wadhwani Institute for AI
• Arts and Culture
  Gold: Apicon Solutions | Silver: JK77
• Social Equity and Inclusion
  Gold: Sarvm AI | Silver: Ridan AI Foundation
• Education and Livelihoods
  Gold: Embibe | Silver: SpeakX

Additionally, students were awarded Silver in the Best Use of AI in Arts & Culture category, further highlighting the next generation’s involvement in AI for social good.

These winners represent the true spirit of AI for good—innovative, scalable solutions addressing real-world challenges. From supporting farmers to improving education access, each project showcases how AI is driving change and improving lives.

Purpose-Driven Innovation: Why It Matters

The Tech4Good Awards underscored the importance of aligning technological advancements with a clear purpose—one that benefits both people and the planet. The event served as a powerful reminder of the profound possibilities when cutting-edge technology is guided by human values, with AI being used as a tool for long-term societal impact.

Networking for Change

The evening concluded with a vibrant networking dinner, where innovators, technologists, and policymakers gathered to exchange ideas, foster partnerships, and discuss future collaborations. This dynamic exchange of ideas is set to accelerate the development of new initiatives, reinforcing the commitment to using AI to create positive societal change.

The All About AI Tech4Good Awards 2024 marked the beginning of a broader movement—one where innovation serves a greater purpose. As we look toward the future, the awards remind us of the immense potential of AI to make the world a better place when combined with the power of human-driven values and collaboration.