Odisha launches new initiative on artificial intelligence to boost digital literacy

Bhubaneswar: Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik launched ‘Odisha for Artificial Intelligence’ and ‘Artificial Intelligence for Youth’ initiative at a programme organised at Lok Seva Bhawan here today.

The state government has roped in international technology company Intel for the initiative. In the first phase, the initiative will be implemented in Bhubaneswar, Puri and Cuttack.

Speaking on the occasion, the Chief Minister said, “Artificial Intelligence holds an incredible potential to reshape our world and drive progress. Odisha government has focused on technology driven transformation, which is one of the key components of our 5-T initiative.”

The Chief Minister claimed that the initiative will augment digital literacy of the masses and make them familiar with the next generation cutting edge technology. It will also create an ecosystem for fostering research, innovation, and application across sectors, he added.

Complimenting the State Electronics & IT Department, and Intel India for this collaboration, the Chief Minister advised all departments to take advantage of the initiative and train officials for spearheading the AI revolution in Odisha.

He expressed confidence that the new initiative will harness AI for economic growth, transformation of governance and betterment of lives of our citizens.

The Chief Minister called upon all to embrace this new chapter to unlock the limitless potential of our youth and build a future where Artificial Intelligence serves as a tool for empowerment of our citizens and inclusive growth of our state.

Electronics & IT Minister Tusharkanti Behera highlighted the state’s initiative for transforming Odisha in different sectors.  He said that this AI initiative will put Odisha in the top league among the states in India.

Intel India chief Nivruti Rai also spoke on the occasion.  Electronics & IT department Principal Secretary Manoj Mishra highlighted the scope and utility of AI for the future of Odisha.

Development Commissioner Anu Garg, Secretary to CM (5-T) VK Pandian and other senior officers were present on the occasion.

Odisha for AI is a free 4-hour course on artificial intelligence by Intel on itye app/site. It will be open to all for free of cost in Bhubaneswar, Puri and Cuttack in the initial phase and across Odisha subsequently, sources said.

AI for youth is for students (below 18) of 2,000 schools transformed under the 5T initiative and Odisha Adarsh Vidyalayas, they added.