The government of Maharashtra has unveiled its ambitious AI Policy 2026, aiming to attract investments exceeding Rs 10,000 crore and create 150,000 jobs by 2031. This initiative is part of the state’s strategy to position itself as a national hub for artificial intelligence (AI) innovation. The announcement highlights Maharashtra’s commitment to harnessing AI technologies to drive economic growth and employment.
This development aligns with India’s evolving approach to AI governance, which has, until now, focused on a principle-based framework that seeks to prioritize innovation while ensuring necessary safeguards. The new policy includes the establishment of the Maharashtra AI Mission, with plans to create five AI innovation cities and six sectoral Centres of Excellence aimed at enhancing local expertise in various industries.
A significant aspect of the policy is its commitment to workforce development. Electronics, Information Technology and AI Minister Ashish Shelar announced that the initiative includes training 200,000 young people and professionals in AI technologies, thereby creating a skilled workforce equipped to meet the demands of emerging technologies.
Structured around seven key pillars, the policy mirrors the federal government’s IndiaAI Mission. These pillars encompass AI infrastructure, local language data, workforce training, adoption by micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs), startup incubation, sector-specific Centres of Excellence, and ethical AI governance. The focus on infrastructure includes plans for a shared computing backbone featuring at least 2,000 graphics processing units under a “compute-as-a-service” model.
Furthermore, a State AI Data Exchange is set to be created, along with initiatives to develop datasets in Marathi and regional dialects, ensuring that AI technologies are accessible to diverse populations. In a bid to promote AI adoption among businesses, the state will provide financial support to 5,000 MSMEs, while a dedicated Rs 500 crore AI startup fund will see Rs 250 crore contributed by the state government.
The policy also proposes the establishment of 12 AI incubators, offering support of up to Rs 1 crore for startups, with additional assistance available for women-led ventures. This move is designed to foster innovation and entrepreneurship within the state. Additional incentives such as capital subsidies, stamp duty exemptions, and power tariff concessions are included to encourage investment and growth in the AI sector.
To facilitate broader adoption of AI across industries, the government plans to develop around 50 AI tools and use cases, as well as AI-based systems aimed at simplifying citizen interactions with public services. A governance framework for responsible AI use will also be introduced, which will include annual AI readiness audits across government departments. Minister Shelar emphasized that Maharashtra aims to create a separate framework for ethical AI, addressing the need for responsible implementation of technology.
In tandem with the AI policy, the cabinet has also approved the MAGESTIC scheme, which stands for Maharashtra Accelerating Green Energy and Storage Technologies Integration in Connected Grid. This initiative aims to boost the use of renewable energy sources within the state. Additionally, the establishment of the Green Maharashtra Commission has been cleared to oversee a large-scale tree plantation drive targeting the planting of three billion trees.
Maharashtra’s dual focus on AI innovation and environmental sustainability reflects a broader commitment to leveraging technology for both economic development and ecological responsibility. As the state embarks on this ambitious agenda, it seeks to position itself as a leader in AI advancement while addressing critical environmental challenges. The success of these initiatives will be closely watched as stakeholders navigate the evolving landscape of technology and sustainability.
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