Mumbai: Maharashtra is taking a pioneering step towards artificial intelligence innovation by setting up the country’s first AI university. Designed to be a center of excellence, the university will drive research, development and collaboration across industry, academia and government.

To lay the groundwork for this ambitious project, the state has formed a dedicated task force, as announced by Information Technology Minister Ashish Shelar on Saturday evening.

The diverse composition of the task force brings together leading minds from academia, industry and government to ensure a well-rounded approach to establishing the AI university. With top experts from IIT Mumbai and IIM Mumbai, along with representatives from major corporations like Google India, Mahindra Group and L&T, the committee is expected to provide strategic guidance on research, innovation and industry partnerships.

Additionally, the involvement of officials from the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology, as well as experts from the Rajiv Gandhi Science and Technology Commission and the Data Security Council of India, will help shape policies and frameworks to position Maharashtra as a leader in AI education and development.

“The AI university will be a center of excellence, fostering collaboration between industry, academia, and government. This initiative will not only position Maharashtra as a global leader in AI but also contribute to India’s technological advancement,” said Shelar.

He added, “The task force has already held two meetings and is working on finalising the roadmap for the university’s establishment. The government’s decision reflects its commitment to making Maharashtra a hub for technology and innovation.”

Experts believe that with the growing use of AI, establishing such a university will position Maharashtra at the forefront of technological progress in the future.