How is Bihar Advancing with Technology? Sanjay Kumar Jha Welcomes UK AI Minister Kanishka Narayan to Patna
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New Delhi, Feb 21 (NationPress) Kanishka Narayan, the UK's AI Minister, was greeted with enthusiasm in Patna on Saturday during his visit to Bihar after a gap of over twenty years. Sanjay Kumar Jha, the JD(U) MP, extended a warm welcome at his residence, emphasizing the importance of this visit for the state's ambitions in technology.
In a statement to IANS, Jha noted, "As he hails from Bihar and holds a significant position in the UK's AI department, he is well-versed in these matters. In today's world, everything is interconnected, and Bihar is advancing, particularly in technology."
Jha added, "Kanishka Narayan serves as the AI Minister in the UK and is originally from Muzaffarpur. This is his first visit back in 23 years. He plans to hold discussions with Bihar government officials, which may lead to potential collaborations in AI with London."
Narayan expressed his sentiments about returning to his birthplace, stating, "Having been born here, it is a joy to return after more than 20 years. Remarkable progress is evident here. We are pursuing the future of technology, which aligns with our AI initiatives in the UK, making this visit personally gratifying for me."
This visit holds symbolic importance, connecting his roots in Bihar with his role in shaping AI strategies in the UK. The discussions are likely to delve into opportunities for cooperation in AI development, research, and innovation.
Previously, during the India AI Impact Summit 2026 at Bharat Mandapam in New Delhi, Narayan highlighted the significance of ongoing discussions. "The summit has been incredibly impactful," he remarked, acknowledging its role in influencing AI's future.
Narayan underscored that the UK-India partnership in the digital arena is built on mutual understanding and aligned strategic goals. He pointed out that both nations share similar paths in AI regulation and responsible deployment.
"The UK and India have common principles and a shared trajectory in AI," he noted, indicating the clear synergy in their approaches to technological advancements.
Expressing a deep interest in fostering ties, Narayan concluded, "I am eager for collaborations with India as our potential for partnership is vast."