Odisha’s Vision for AI: Workshop Sets the Stage for Inclusive Growth and Innovation

Odisha’s Vision for AI: Workshop Sets the Stage for Inclusive Growth and Innovation

Summary

The Government of Odisha is strategizing to integrate artificial intelligence into its economic and social frameworks, with a focus on inclusivity and innovation through a recent workshop involving various stakeholders.

Category

R&D

Introduction

In a significant move towards the advancement of artificial intelligence (AI), the Government of Odisha recently hosted a pivotal workshop aimed at crafting a comprehensive AI strategy for the state. Conducted at the Odisha State Convention Centre, this event brought together key stakeholders from government, academia, industries, and international organizations to discuss the potential of AI in bolstering the state’s economy and enhancing public services.

Workshop Overview

The workshop, titled “Brainstorming Workshop on Artificial Intelligence Strategy for Odisha,” serves as a crucial platform for exchanging innovative ideas and laying down a roadmap that aligns with both Odisha’s developmental goals and the national AI mission. The state’s electronics and IT department organized the event, emphasizing the need for a robust AI ecosystem that is inclusive and ethically oriented.

Key Remarks

Anu Garg, the Development Commissioner-cum-Additional Chief Secretary of Odisha, underscored the importance of equitable AI adoption. “AI should not just be a tool for accelerating growth but must also ensure that its benefits reach marginalized communities,” she stated. Garg’s remarks highlighted the vision for inclusive growth through AI, aiming to address disparities and enhance the quality of life for all citizens.

Vishal Dev, Principal Secretary of the electronics and IT department, also articulated the state’s aspirations to emerge as a significant player in the AI landscape. He revealed that Odisha is working on a tailored AI strategy that fosters an environment conducive to startups and promotes collaborative efforts between academia, industry, and government. “Our goal is to substantially contribute to India’s AI mission by enhancing computing capabilities and encouraging indigenous AI models,” Dev noted.

Participation of Noteworthy Organizations

Several noteworthy organizations participated in the workshop, including:

  • The Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology
  • The Tony Blair Institute for Global Change
  • The Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation
  • The University of California-Berkeley

These organizations provided insights into various dimensions of AI development, ranging from ethical considerations to infrastructure requirements. Their contributions were particularly relevant in the context of sectors like healthcare, agriculture, and disaster management, where AI has the potential to drive significant improvements.

National AI Mission

The presentations made during the workshop underscored the national priorities established under India’s AI Mission, which has committed over Rs 10,000 crore to promote AI research and adoption across industries. This mission strives to position India as a global leader in AI, focusing on innovation and local solutions that cater to the unique needs of the country.

Panel Discussion

A panel discussion featuring experts from institutions such as IIT Bhubaneswar and IIIT Bhubaneswar, along with industry leaders from Accenture, TCS, and Infosys, further enriched the discourse. The discussions revolved around:

  • AI-focused research initiatives at the state’s universities
  • The proliferation of academic programs in AI
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