Maharashtra approves artificial intelligence policy, marks decisive leap in future of technology

Officials said that the primary objective of this policy is to generate large-scale employment, with a target of creating approximately 1.5 lakh AI-based jobs.

Mumbai: The Maharashtra government on Wednesday approved the state’s Artificial Intelligence Policy, marking a decisive leap into the future of technology. 

As rapid technological and AI-driven advancements are reshaping industries and economies, Maharashtra is poised to lead from the front by embracing innovation and harnessing the transformative power of AI.

The policy was approved at the weekly Cabinet meeting presided over by Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis.

Notably, Maharashtra will become the first state in the country to create a dedicated framework for ethical AI. 

The primary objective of this policy is to generate large-scale employment, with a target of creating approximately 1.5 lakh AI-based jobs, officials said.

Additionally, around two lakh youth will be trained in AI, helping build a future-ready skilled workforce. 

To promote the use of AI in industry and business, 50 AI tools/use cases will be developed. 

The policy also envisages setting up 6 centres of Excellence for Artificial Intelligence across the state. 

The Applied AI Accelerator initiative will be promoted to enhance AI adoption in the manufacturing sector. 

To support implementation, robust computing infrastructure will be developed, including provisioning of 2,000 GPUs in the state. 

Financial assistance will be provided to 5,000 MSMEs to improve productivity and profitability through AI adoption. 

Special efforts will be made to encourage AI-based startups and create unicorns. 

A Rs 500 crore venture capital fund will be established, with Rs 250 crore contributed by the state government. Additionally, subsidies will be provided for machinery procurement for AI-based industries. 

Various incentives will be offered to boost AI adoption in education, employment, innovation and industry, including concessions in electricity tariffs, power subsidies, and stamp duty. 

Focus will also be placed on developing AI-based agents to enhance communication between citizens and the administration, officials said.