The Gujarat government has taken a significant step towards embracing Artificial Intelligence (AI) by signing memorandums of understanding (MoUs) with tech giants IBM and Microsoft, and the National Association of Software and Service Companies (NASSCOM). These agreements aim to promote the use of AI technologies within the state.
The MoUs were signed in the presence of Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel, signifying the state’s commitment to this strategic initiative. IBM and the Department of Science and Technology, Government of Gujarat, have joined hands to establish and promote an “AI Cluster” at Gujarat International Finance Tec (GIFT) City. This cluster will serve as a hub for innovation and collaboration among financial institutions, leveraging AI to drive growth in the sector.
Microsoft, in collaboration with the Department of Science and Technology, has also signed an MoU to establish an Artificial Intelligence Center of Excellence in GIFT City. This center will focus on key AI technologies such as machine learning, cognitive services, and bot services, further enhancing the state’s technological prowess.
To further strengthen AI capabilities in Gujarat, the Department of Science and Technology has entered into another MoU with NASSCOM. This partnership aims to equip the state with the necessary resources and expertise to thrive in the AI era.
Chief Minister Patel emphasized the government’s commitment to promoting futuristic technology, aligning with Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision of propelling India to become the world’s third-largest economy. He stated that Gujarat aims to maintain its position as a top industrial state by embracing AI and emerging technologies.
Recognizing the growing demand for skilled professionals in AI-driven industries, the state government has launched the Up Skilling Industry Ready Talent Program under its IT and ITES policy. This program aims to equip young individuals with the necessary skills to succeed in the rapidly evolving technological landscape.
Sandeep Patel, Managing Director of IBM India-South Asia, highlighted the critical role of AI in driving India’s development. He emphasized that IBM’s advanced AI platform and cloud infrastructure will empower fintech firms in GIFT City to develop innovative AI-driven solutions for the banking, financial services, and insurance sectors.
Furthermore, IBM has pledged to collaborate in developing AI curriculum for state schools and universities. This initiative aims to nurture a generation of AI-savvy individuals who can contribute to the state’s technological progress.
The Up Skilling Industry Ready Talent Program has invited expressions of interest from universities and course providers across Gujarat to participate in training youth in deep technology. Several prominent organizations, including IBM, NVidia, AWS, TCS, and L&T Edutech, have committed to providing courses under this initiative. Four state universities – GTU, IITRAM, P.D.E.U, and Ganpat University – have joined as aggregators, bolstering the program’s reach and impact.
Through these strategic partnerships and initiatives, Gujarat aims to train 25,000 students in deep technology courses over three years, equipping them with the skills to become future-ready professionals and contributing to the state’s transformation into a leading AI hub.
