In a significant move toward digital transformation, the Assam government has entered into a strategic partnership with tech giant Google to revolutionize state administration through artificial intelligence. The Memorandum of Understanding was formally signed on Tuesday in Guwahati during a ceremony attended by Information Technology Minister Keshab Mahanta.
Building an AI-First Governance Framework
The collaboration focuses on developing robust AI governance frameworks that prioritize ethical guidelines, transparency, and equity. A key component of this initiative is the establishment of an AI Centre of Excellence for governance solutions, which the state government is creating in collaboration with Google and their implementation partner, Paradigm IT.
The agreement was formalized by Gopinath Narayan, Principal Secretary of the state IT department, and Ashish Wattal, Director and Country Head of Google Cloud. This partnership represents a crucial step in Assam's journey toward becoming the 'AI hub of India in the northeast' by acquiring necessary technical capabilities and infrastructure.
Comprehensive Capacity Building Initiatives
Minister Keshab Mahanta emphasized that the agreement provides a structured framework to develop AI capabilities within the government, enhance skills among officials and students, and conduct pilot projects in areas where AI can deliver significant value. "The centre of excellence will serve as a problem-solving partner for various departments," Mahanta stated.
The minister highlighted that this partnership will ensure AI acts as a 'guardian of trust, privacy and equity' while addressing biases, safeguarding data sovereignty, and promoting innovation that benefits all sections of society. Mahanta expressed deep gratitude to Google partners, acknowledging their global leadership in AI combined with understanding of India's diverse needs.
Positioning Assam as India's Ethical AI Leader
As Assam prepares to launch the Assam AI-IT Policy, 2025, the government aims to establish the state as India's leading hub for ethical AI-driven governance, economic growth and inclusive development. Mahanta expressed hope that the MoU will stimulate investments in skilling programmes, cloud infrastructure and generative AI applications for governance.
"It will equip our workforce — our young engineers, data scientists and administrators — with certifications and tools to thrive in the digital economy, creating jobs and opportunities in the state," the minister added. Mahanta revealed that the state, under Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma's leadership, has adopted an 'AI-First Strategy' as part of its digital transformation agenda.
State Chief Secretary Ravi Kota described the MoU as a historic step for Assam's future, noting that every government department will be particularly aided in serving residents with more dedication and efficiency as a result of this agreement with Google.
