MAHARASHTRA AI POLICY INITIATIVE

GS3 TECHNOLOGY

Overview:
The Maharashtra government has announced the formation of a 16-member committee to draft the state’s first Artificial Intelligence (AI) policy. The initiative aims to position Maharashtra as India’s leading state in AI development, aligning with the central government’s India AI Mission to drive digital economy growth and industrial advancement.

Formation of AI Committee:

• A 16-member committee has been set up to create the Maharashtra AI Policy 2025.
• Chaired by the Director of the Directorate of Information Technology in Mumbai, the committee will submit its recommendations within a set timeframe.

Objectives of the AI Policy:

• Support the IndiaAI Mission by leveraging Maharashtra’s entrepreneurial strengths.
• Accelerate industrial growth and contribute to the state’s goal of achieving a $1 trillion GDP.

India AI Mission Overview:

• Launched in March 2024, the India AI Mission focuses on strengthening AI capabilities in India.
• Key initiatives include the IndiaAI Datasets Platform, Innovation Centre, and funding support for AI startups.

Cyber Security Policy Task Force:

• In parallel with the AI policy, a Cyber Security Policy Task Force has been formed to safeguard Maharashtra’s IT infrastructure and ensure secure digital services for citizens.

Economic Impact of AI:

• AI is expected to significantly boost Maharashtra’s ₹6 lakh crore digital economy.
• The policy will support growth in various sectors, including healthcare, agriculture, and manufacturing.

Global AI Context:

• India’s AI strategy, “AI for All,” aims to make India a global leader in AI innovation, with the government actively promoting AI through various initiatives and global partnerships.

Challenges in AI Adoption:

• Maharashtra faces challenges such as a shortage of skilled talent, inadequate infrastructure, and privacy concerns. Addressing these is essential for successful AI policy implementation.

Future Directions:

• The state government plans to encourage AI research and development, enhance educational programs, and foster public-private partnerships to accelerate AI adoption across industries.