The state government is reportedly moving ahead with its plan to implement an Artificial Intelligence (AI)-powered facial recognition attendance system across all village panchayats, replacing the existing biometric finger-print system. It must be said that AI technology should be used not for trivial functions like checking attendance but for detection by the panchayats of illegal hill cutting, deforestation, encroachment and illegal construction. AI-based software is available to detect unauthorized constructions & encroachments. The technology can process vast amounts of diverse environmental data at speeds incomparable to human capability, detecting patterns and changes which indicate deforestation activities. The ability to predict potential deforestation hotspots enables proactive measures in ensuring its prevention. The integration of AI with satellite imaging enhances the detection of subtle changes in forest canopy, which enables the identification of deforestation patterns over time. The detection of cutting of trees using aerial images is an efficient way to monitor and detect changes in forested areas.
