India has long looked to the West for advancements in technology and artificial intelligence, but now the tables are turning. The central and state governments in India are introducing AI policies and initiatives to promote the AI revolution and ensure that AI technologies serve the country’s unique requirements. Tech giants like Meta, Google, Microsoft, and OpenAI have been making groundbreaking progress in AI, and India’s AI moment has finally arrived. At its 47th Annual General Meeting, Reliance introduced the Jio Brain, Jio AI-Cloud, Jio PhoneCall AI, and a vision for a national AI infrastructure. As we approach the end of 2024, let’s take a look at how various Indian state governments have embraced AI.
Kerala is leading the way with its focus on policy and partnerships. In July, the state declared its vision to become a global hub for generative AI. The industries and law minister P Rajeev laid out a roadmap for an AI ecosystem that offers incentives, support, and partnerships aligned with environmental, social, and governance (ESG) goals. The state plans to establish an AI cluster and set up an industrial park, with a public-private partnership model that harnesses both local and global expertise.
Tamil Nadu is also making strides in AI for social good. The state government recently announced the Tamil Nadu Artificial Intelligence Mission (TNAIM), a five-year plan to position the state as a leading AI hub in India. Led by chief minister MK Stalin, TNAIM aims to develop AI solutions that improve governance and drive social and economic growth. The mission, developed by the Tamil Nadu e-Governance Agency and local tech organizations, will receive an initial investment of INR 13.93 crore. The underlying principle of TNAIM, “social good by design,” highlights Tamil Nadu’s commitment to creating AI solutions that make a real difference.
Karnataka is focusing on AI in education and global business solutions. The state’s school education minister Madhu Bangarappa launched Shiksha Co-pilot, a generative AI-powered digital assistant for teacher training. This technology is transforming how teachers prepare and deliver lessons. Karnataka also recently launched India’s first draft Global Capability Centres (GCC) Policy, with the goal of attracting 500 new centres and creating over 3.5 lakh jobs by 2029. This policy demonstrates Karnataka’s commitment to becoming a national leader in AI-driven global business solutions. In February, the state’s chief minister Siddaramaiah announced the establishment of an AI/ML administration unit. Additionally, 200 engineering graduates enrolled in vocational training courses related to AI/ML at institutes like IISc, IITs, and NITs will receive a stipend of INR 15,000.
Andhra Pradesh has set its sights on becoming an AI city. The state government has established an expert committee to develop a roadmap for creating an AI city. The committee will focus on developing AI solutions for various sectors, including agriculture, healthcare, and education. Andhra Pradesh is also investing in AI research and development, with plans to establish an AI research institute and a Centre of Excellence in AI.
In conclusion, Indian state governments are taking significant steps to embrace AI and harness its potential for social and economic growth. With policies and initiatives in place, India is well on its way to becoming a global leader in AI.
