Uttar Pradesh government is poised to establish Lucknow as India’s first Artificial Intelligence (AI) city. The ambitious project, which has received official approval, was announced by Nitin Agarwal, Minister of State (Independent Charge), Department of Excise and Prohibition, during the AI Vision Conclave organized by The Economic Times.
“Lucknow will be the first Artificial Intelligence city in India in the coming years,” Agarwal affirmed, emphasizing the government’s commitment to fostering an AI ecosystem in the state capital. While acknowledging the challenges posed by limited knowledge of AI, he highlighted the need for continued discussions between policymakers and industry experts to unlock AI’s transformative potential.
Building the AI Ecosystem
The government has already identified land for infrastructure development to support the AI ecosystem. Agarwal stressed the importance of enhancing the IT sector to attract investment and drive innovation in Uttar Pradesh.
“We need to advance the IT sector to attract investments. While we currently lack comprehensive AI expertise, more forums like this conclave will promote dialogue on AI’s applications and its ability to improve efficiency,” Agarwal explained.
One of the pilot applications of AI will be at the upcoming Maha Kumbh Mela, where the state government plans to deploy an AI-enabled messaging system. This innovative solution will aid healthcare professionals by translating 22 regional and 19 international languages, ensuring better communication and treatment for patients from diverse linguistic backgrounds.
Industry Leaders Support the Vision
The ambitious initiative has garnered support from industry leaders. Vishal Dhupar, Managing Director of NVIDIA South Asia, lauded India’s IT talent, asserting that Lucknow has the potential to become the global AI capital.
“Indians are present in every IT company around the world. Our skills have shaped the global IT industry. If Lucknow becomes an AI city, it could lead the world in AI innovation,” Dhupar remarked.
Raju Vegesna, Chairman and Managing Director of Sify Technologies, emphasized the urgency of building an AI hub in India, warning that delays could lead to lost opportunities. “The Uttar Pradesh government’s plan to create a model AI hub in Lucknow demands significant manpower and resources,” Vegesna noted.
This initiative aligns with the Government of India’s broader push for AI innovation. The central government recently allocated Rs 10,000 crore for the India AI Mission, reflecting its commitment to making India a global AI leader. In 2024 alone, India witnessed the rise of approximately 240 generative AI startups, earning it the sixth spot globally in AI-driven innovation.
A Vision for the Future
Uttar Pradesh’s Principal Secretary for IT and Electronics, Anil Kumar Sagar, acknowledged the state’s earlier missed opportunities in the technology sector but expressed confidence in Lucknow’s potential to lead the AI revolution.
“Our Chief Minister has tasked us with ensuring that Lucknow seizes this opportunity. We are developing AI models using government datasets and refining policies on AI and cybersecurity,” Sagar shared.
With visionary leadership, strategic investments, and industry collaboration, Lucknow is poised to become a beacon of AI innovation, setting a benchmark for other cities in India and beyond.