Maharashtra state approves AI policy with Rs 10,000cr push

CM Devendra Fadnavis during an AI Impact Summit in February. File pic/X/@CMOMaharashtra; (right) Pic/X/@ShelarAshish

Aiming to turn Maharashtra into a leading hub for AI and digital growth, the state cabinet has approved a new artificial intelligence (AI) Policy. The move is seen as a major step towards the future, with a strong focus on creating jobs, training youth in advanced technologies, and helping industries adopt AI to grow faster.

The decision was taken at a cabinet meeting chaired by Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis on Wednesday.

Pic/iStock

Sharing details of the policy, Information Technology Minister Ashish Shelar said that the state government has set a target to attract investment in AI-based industries, under which a plan has been made to bring in investment of approximately Rs 10,000 crore. Along with this, the objective has been set to create around 1.5 lakh new jobs through AI.

To ensure the responsible use of AI, a compliance policy for ‘Ethical AI' will be implemented, maintaining transparency and security, said the minister.

Six
No. of AI centres to be set up across state

Boost to MSME

To empower the state's MSME sector, financial assistance will be provided to 5000 MSMEs, enabling them to enhance their efficiency by adopting AI technology, said Shelar. Moreover, to promote employment and startups, a venture fund of Rs 500 crore will be established, in which Rs 250 crore will be contributed by the government.

Highlights of the policy

Jobs boost: Around 1.5 lakh AI-related jobs to be created.
Skill training: Nearly two lakh youth will be trained in AI skills.
Centres of Excellence: Six AI centres to be set up across the state.
Startup boost: Rs 500 crore fund to support AI startups and create unicorns.
Subsidies & incentives: Benefits like cheaper electricity, subsidies, and stamp duty concessions.
Better governance: AI tools to improve communication between citizens and government.
Investment zones: New regions to attract AI and tech investments.
Local language focus: Support for AI development in Marathi and other regional languages.
Ethical AI: The first state to create a proper ethical AI framework.