Will Odisha Host a Pivotal AI Impact Conference on Dec 19?
Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Odisha's AI Impact Conference aims to enhance public governance.
- Focus on sustainability with 'Three Ps' guiding discussions.
- AI-driven initiatives identified in key government sectors.
- Bhasha Dham program to promote Odia language.
- Alignment with national AI policies for future growth.
Bhubaneswar, Dec 17 (NationPress) The Odisha government is set to organize the Regional AI Impact Conference from December 19 to 20, paving the way for a significant national discussion on artificial intelligence in governance and public service delivery.
On Wednesday, the Electronics & IT Department of the state held a preliminary event for the conference, offering an initial look at Odisha's AI vision, policy initiatives, and the expanding array of real-world AI applications.
During the event, Mukesh Mahaling, the Minister for Electronics & IT, noted that the state is embracing a future-oriented approach to technology-driven development.
He highlighted that, in conjunction with the Odisha AI Policy 2025, progressive measures in FinTech, Global Capability Centres, and advanced electronics are establishing a responsible and investor-friendly environment for extensive AI integration.
Mahaling stressed that Odisha aims to cultivate a comprehensive innovation ecosystem backed by robust governance, cutting-edge digital skills, and stable long-term policies.
He also mentioned that in preparation for the India Impact AI Summit slated for February, regional Impact AI Summits will be conducted in eight states, including Madhya Pradesh, Kerala, Gujarat, Rajasthan, Meghalaya, Uttar Pradesh, Telangana, and Odisha. Mahaling remarked that Prime Minister Narendra Modi envisions positioning Odisha as a hub for Artificial Intelligence in India.
Prioritizing the Odia identity, the state government, under the Chief Minister's leadership, will initiate a language donation program in Artificial Intelligence, aiming to enhance the accessibility of Odia content to the public through simplified digital formats.
The Regional AI Impact Conference has two primary goals. Firstly, it aligns with the India AI Impact Summit scheduled for February 2026, under the Prime Minister's guidance.
Secondly, the conference revolves around a central theme centered on sustainability and inclusive growth, guided by the “Three Ps - Planet, People, and Progress”, along with sector-specific discussions.
Addressing Odisha's priorities, Mahaling stated that the state has pinpointed key government departments for AI-driven initiatives, such as Health, Education, Disaster Management, Culture, Parliamentary Affairs, and Women & Child Welfare.
AI technologies will be employed to enhance program implementation, monitoring, and policy guidance across these sectors.
The Minister also unveiled a significant initiative to promote the Odia language through AI and digital platforms. A new program named “Bhasha Dham”, to be launched by the Chief Minister, will concentrate on making Odia language content broadly available online using AI tools.
Under this initiative, contributions will be solicited from Odia scholars, educators, artists, and writers to create and digitize high-quality Odia content.