Maharashtra Government Establishes AI Task Force

Synopsis
On January 17, the Maharashtra government announced the formation of a 13-member task force led by the Director of the Maharashtra Information Technology Directorate to create a robust Artificial Intelligence (AI) policy, aiming to make the state a leader in AI and capitalize on the rapid growth of AI industries.
Key Takeaways
- Maharashtra's AI task force consists of 13 members.
- AI policy aims to boost the state's economy.
- Collaboration with Central Government’s India AI Mission.
- Focus on job creation and investment attraction.
- Development of the India AI Datasets Platform.
Mumbai, Jan 17 (NationPress) The Maharashtra government has formed a 13-member task force, overseen by the Director of the Maharashtra Information Technology Directorate, to create a detailed Artificial Intelligence (AI) policy. This move is designed to establish the state as a frontrunner in the AI sector and capitalize on the swift expansion of AI-oriented industries.
The task force includes specialists from both the private sector and vital government officials.
State IT Minister Ashish Shelar emphasized the significance of AI in propelling India's $600 billion digital economy, with Maharashtra contributing approximately Rs 6 lakh crore. "Our AI policy will act as a catalyst for this development, steering Maharashtra towards its ambition of reaching a $1 trillion GDP in the near future," Shelar remarked.
He also mentioned that the state's AI policy would align with the Central Government’s India AI Mission, integrating it with Maharashtra's innovation and entrepreneurial spirit.
Shelar underscored the revolutionary impact of AI in enhancing industries, drawing investments, and generating job opportunities. "The AI revolution has commenced, and Maharashtra must harness this opportunity to foster economic growth, create employment, and reinforce its status in the global AI arena," the Minister stated.
To maintain competitiveness, Maharashtra will synchronize its AI endeavors with the national AI strategy. The Central Government is in the process of developing the India AI Datasets Platform, a comprehensive repository of non-personal data sets. This platform will aid startups, corporations, academia, and researchers in creating AI solutions and services.
The India AI Mission, backed by a budget of Rs 10,372 crore, aims to bolster AI capabilities nationwide. It incorporates initiatives such as the India AI Datasets Platform, application development schemes, GPU-focused innovation hubs, skill enhancement, and support for AI startups.
Maharashtra's Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis echoed these views, asserting, "AI represents the future of technology. It will empower startups, evolve into a center of excellence, and greatly contribute to industrial growth and job creation."
This policy initiative underscores Maharashtra's dedication to positioning itself as a key player in the global AI industry.