Bhubaneswar: Kerala has become the first state in India to establish a dedicated cabinet-level portfolio for Artificial Intelligence, formally integrating AI governance into the state’s administrative structure.
The decision was announced through an official gazette notification issued by the newly formed government led by V. D. Satheesan shortly after assuming office.
Senior leader P. K. Kunhalikutty of the Indian Union Muslim League has been assigned the Artificial Intelligence portfolio along with Industries, Information Technology, Start-ups, Mining and Handlooms.
The move is being viewed as a major step towards technology-driven governance, digital innovation and future-focused industrial policy in the state. Officials and policy observers believe the dedicated AI portfolio could help accelerate initiatives related to automation, emerging technologies, digital infrastructure, start-up ecosystems and AI-based public services.
The development has also drawn attention because it comes shortly after Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam in Tamil Nadu proposed the creation of a separate AI Ministry as part of its policy vision.
Analysts say the trend may signal the beginning of broader competition among Indian states to position themselves as leading hubs for Artificial Intelligence governance, technological innovation and digital economy investments.
-OdishaAge
