Panaji: Goa's draft artificial intelligence (AI) policy, released on Monday for public review, aims to create 50,000 certified AI professionals by 2030 and attract five global AI companies to the state by 2028. The policy signals the government's deliberate attempt to pursue an AI action plan within six months of the policy's formal notification.
Key Pillars of the Policy
The draft policy is structured around six pillars. It proposes making AI a compulsory school subject from Class VI, in line with the national curriculum framework. The government also plans to establish AI laboratories in 50 government schools, building on the existing Atal Tinkering Labs.
Higher Education and Skill Development
The IT department plans to set up two dedicated data and AI labs in ITIs and polytechnics under the IndiaAI FutureSkills programme, in collaboration with the Directorate of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship. At least 500 educators will be trained in AI fundamentals through IIT Goa, with plans to offer classes in Konkani, Marathi, and Hindi. At the higher education level, the policy recommends integrating AI and machine learning into all undergraduate science and technology programmes from 2027 to 2028. The Goa State Higher Education Council will issue a formal directive to ensure compliance across deemed universities, autonomous colleges, and affiliated institutions, with annual compliance reporting mandated to DITEC.
Scholarships and Fellowships
The policy aims to select 50 undergraduate and 50 postgraduate students for the IndiaAI FutureSkills programme over three years. Ten PhD fellowships will be offered annually through IIT Goa and NIT Goa, funded by the Goa AI Scholarship for meritorious students.
Government Training and Certification
All government officers will be required to complete the YUVA AI for All certification on the iGoT Karmayogi platform. The AI-certified professionals target will include at least 20% women and youth certified by NASSCOM, NIELIT, and leading EdTech platforms.
Citizens and stakeholders can share their suggestions and feedback within the next 15 days.
