Mumbai, April 7 (NationPress) The Chief Minister of Maharashtra, Devendra Fadnavis, presided over a Cabinet meeting on Tuesday, approving the formation of a specialized department for Electronics, Information Technology, and Artificial Intelligence. This initiative is part of the vision for a Viksit Maharashtra.

As a result of this decision, a new IT cadre will be established, which will include permanent roles within the Ministry (Mantralaya), the Commissioner's office, and across all districts.

The current IT desk, previously managed by the General Administration Department, will be restructured to create this new independent entity.

Furthermore, the Directorate of Information Technology will evolve into the Commissionerate of Electronics, Information Technology, and Artificial Intelligence.

A total of 77 positions will be allocated for this new Commissionerate.

To facilitate IT operations within the Ministry, additional administrative departments, and District Collector offices, a dedicated IT cadre comprising 427 posts will also be introduced.

Moreover, 389 technical positions will be outsourced for effective project management and operational oversight.

The Maharashtra e-Mission Team (MEMT) will be set up to manage these recruitments.

To cultivate a skilled workforce, an internship program targeting 200 engineering graduates will also be initiated.

This newly established department aims to bolster governance, integrate technology, enhance strategic policy development, and improve digital infrastructure, leading to a wide-ranging impact across sectors.

According to the state government, this initiative will expand online government services and enhance administrative efficiency through e-governance, leveraging research, technology, and innovation to meet developmental needs and address administrative hurdles. It will accelerate the formulation and implementation of tech-driven solutions, promote the strategic use of digital services, and facilitate data-driven decision-making while ensuring cyber security and the adoption of emerging technologies.

The new department and IT cadre are expected to harmonize traditional knowledge with contemporary technology, thereby making administration more accessible, transparent, and focused on citizens, particularly in sectors like sustainable agriculture, healthcare, renewable energy, and indigenous manufacturing.

The State Cabinet has also approved an annual budget of approximately Rs 133.35 crore to support the establishment of these positions within the department.