Kerala creates separate AI portfolio to boost artificial intelligence sector

Thiruvananthapuram: Giving greater thrust to the artificial intelligence (AI) sector, the V D Satheesan government in Kerala has made AI a separate portfolio.

The new portfolio has been assigned to IUML leader P K Kunhalikutty, who will also handle Industries and Commerce, Information Technology, and Start-ups.

According to government sources, the move aims to bring AI-related initiatives under a separate wing to further strengthen the sector. The minister, who recently held talks with senior officials of the department, has directed them to submit a report in this regard. Moreover, several AI-related companies, including startups, are already operating in Kerala.

The UDF-Congress election manifesto had also emphasised the use of AI across various sectors.

The Kerala government's decision coincides with the move by the C Joseph Vijay-led Tamil Nadu government to create a separate department for AI.