Microsoft democratizes machine learning, AI access for solving local problems

BANGALORE, INDIA: Microsoft looks to ease the access to its machine learning capabilities to help developers build solutions for local problems.

Microsoft is also working with the state governments to address different issues in education, healthcare, agriculture, transportation, etc.

Inaugurating the first edition of Machine Learning & Data Sciences (ML&DS) Conference in Bangalore yesterday, Joseph Sirosh, Corporate Vice President of Data Group at Microsoft, said, “Cloud based services for Machine Learning and Big Data, together with the Internet of Things (IoT) have the potential to revolutionize every aspect of our lives, from sports, healthcare and education and even government.  At Microsoft, our ambition is to democratize the access to these technologies so that software developers can build, innovate and transform the world with them.”

Microsoft is working with the Government of Andhra Pradesh on a machine learning based model to analyze and predict drop outs and take preventive action. I

It has engaged with L. V. Prasad Eye Institute to build a predictive model that helps predict regression rates for eye operations, enabling doctors to pinpoint the procedures needed to prevent and treat visual impairments.

Microsoft has partnered with ICRISAT to provide powerful cloud-based predictive analytics to empower farmers with crucial information and insights to help reduce crop failures and increase yield, in turn, reducing stress and generating better income.

Microsoft is holding the ML&DS conference in India for the first time to explore the tremendous possibilities with Big Data, Machine Learning, Artificial Intelligence and Open Source technologies to enable a rich set of platforms, intelligent apps, services and experiences to accelerate economic growth, empower people and drive real impact.

In the conference, Microsoft also unveiled an Azure Machine Learning based approach for calculating target scores in weather-interrupted T20 cricket matches. Anil Bhansali, Managing Director, Microsoft India (R&D), said, "We are offering a platform for software developers in India to create solutions that could change the approach to sports administration and sports management.”

It uses machine learning, applies advanced analytics to past data and existing mathematical formulation to derive the outcome. The approach is now available as a Jupyter notebook in Microsoft’s Cortana Intelligence Gallery for software developers to build on and improve using existing data across multiple areas such as playing conditions, weather and cricket grounds.

Microsoft also held an overnight hackathon for students and early-stage developers to build cool, intelligent applications that take advantage of Microsoft Cognitive Services. Top participants will get a unique opportunity to pitch their ideas to top Indian VCs, faculty and Microsoft executives.