Chief Minister Awards 10 MSMEs for Early Adoption of AI, IoT-Led Solutions, and Startup Innovations
Gandhinagar, 27 January 2025: In a significant step towards positioning Gujarat as a hub for Artificial Intelligence (AI) and technology-driven development, Chief Minister Shri Bhupendra Patel inaugurated the Artificial Intelligence Center of Excellence at GIFT City. During the event, the Chief Minister also presented awards to 10 MSMEs for their early adoption of AI and IoT-led solutions, as well as for their innovative contributions to the startup ecosystem.
Key Highlights from the Chief Minister’s Address:
- Vision for GIFT City:
Inspired by Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi’s vision, Gujarat is continuously adding innovations to GIFT City, India’s first financial tech city. The establishment of the AI Center of Excellence is a testament to this commitment. - AI for Good Governance:
The Chief Minister emphasized that the state government has formed the Gujarat AI Task Force to promote good governance through AI. This initiative aims to address challenges in healthcare, agriculture, education, and industries, ensuring inclusive and sustainable development. - Prime Minister’s Mantra:
Quoting PM Modi’s mantra, “Yahi Samay Hai, Sahi Samay Hai” (This is the right time), the Chief Minister highlighted how this vision is motivating the youth to excel globally with a technology-driven and innovative approach. - AI for All:
Aligning with PM Modi’s goal of “AI for All”, the Chief Minister reiterated the state’s commitment to ensuring that AI technology reaches every citizen, fostering an ecosystem of innovation and growth.
About the AI Center of Excellence:
The AI Center of Excellence, established through an MoU between the Gujarat Government’s Department of Science and Technology and Microsoft in June 2024, is now operational. This center will serve as a think tank for AI innovation in Gujarat, leveraging key technologies such as machine learning, cognitive services, and chatbot services.
Key Features of the Center:
- Pilot Projects: Successful pilot projects in various fields will be rolled out to demonstrate the practical applications of AI.
- Training Programs: The center will conduct training programs to build a skilled workforce in AI and related technologies.
- Citizen-Centric Services: The center will provide effective and timely services to citizens, promoting grassroots innovation and accelerating technological progress in sectors like healthcare, education, and production.
Innovation Challenge Launched:
Alongside the inauguration, the Chief Minister launched the Innovation Challenge, aimed at fostering creativity and problem-solving through AI. The challenge will encourage startups, industries, and academia to collaborate and develop innovative solutions to real-world problems.
Awards for MSMEs and Startups:
The Chief Minister presented 10 awards to MSMEs for their early adoption of AI and IoT-led solutions. These awards recognize the efforts of businesses and startups in driving technological innovation and contributing to Gujarat’s growth as a technology hub.
Statements from Dignitaries:
- Chief Secretary Shri Raj Kumar:
He highlighted Gujarat’s leadership in adopting AI technology across various sectors, stating that the state is laying a strong foundation for “A Viksit Gujarat through Viksit Bharat” (A Developed Gujarat for a Developed India). He also emphasized that AI will double the capabilities of governments and organizations, accelerating development. - Shri Abhishek Singh, Mission Director of the AI Mission:
He noted that Gujarat has emerged as a leading state in driving the AI and semiconductor revolution. Over 1,000 SMEs and 300 startups have already benefited from AI adoption in manufacturing. - Dr. Rohini Srivathsa, CEO of Microsoft India and South Asia:
She emphasized that the Innovation Challenge aims to provide AI-based solutions to real-world problems, with a focus on startups and industries. - Shri Ashank Desai, NASSCOM Co-Founder and Mastek Chairman:
He described AI as a transformative force for the economy, highlighting its growing adoption due to advancements in computing power and software.
Experience Zone and Expert Discussions:
The event featured an Experience Zone showcasing AI applications in healthcare and agriculture. Expert speakers discussed topics such as:
- AI in the era of digital transformation.
- AI chatbots for the Digital Gujarat platform.
- Building an AI ecosystem for startups, industries, and academia.
Conclusion:
The inauguration of the AI Center of Excellence marks a significant milestone in Gujarat’s journey towards becoming a global hub for AI and technology-driven development. Under the leadership of Chief Minister Shri Bhupendra Patel and inspired by Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi’s vision, Gujarat is paving the way for an innovative and inclusive future. The state’s focus on AI adoption, coupled with initiatives like the Innovation Challenge, will empower startups, industries, and citizens, ensuring sustainable growth and prosperity.
Attendees:
The event was attended by senior officials from the central and state governments, entrepreneurs, industrialists, and representatives from leading national and international companies.
