In a significant move to future-proof its education system and governance, the Odisha government has declared its intention to introduce Artificial Intelligence (AI) studies right from the school curriculum level. The announcement was made by State Electronics and Information Technology Minister Mukesh Mahaling during the three-day Regional AI Impact Summit in Bhubaneswar on Friday.
AI Education: From School to Higher Studies
Minister Mahaling revealed that he has already discussed the proposal with the Chief Secretary. The plan is to embed AI learning modules starting from school education and extending to the highest levels of academic pursuit. "Even AI tools can be used for research," the minister pointed out, highlighting the practical application of the technology in the learning process itself. This initiative aims to build a foundational understanding of AI among the youth, preparing them for a tech-driven future.
State-Wide AI Deployment for Smarter Governance
Beyond education, the Odisha government is set for a comprehensive rollout of AI tools across its administration. The state is fully prepared to deploy AI across all 41 departments, including critical sectors like health, education, disaster management, culture, parliamentary affairs, and women and child welfare. The objective is to provide technology-driven solutions for more effective and responsive e-governance.
"Our officials, especially those serving in the e-governance mechanism, should know about the AI module for better governance," Mahaling emphasized. This upskilling of the bureaucracy is seen as crucial for the successful implementation of AI-driven public services.
Odisha's Pioneering AI Policy and Mission
Minister Mahaling underscored Odisha's pioneering status in the country's AI landscape. Odisha became the first state in India to approve a dedicated AI policy earlier this year. To back this policy with action, Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi has approved dedicated funding for the Odisha AI Mission for the fiscal year 2025-26.
"I am confident that the Odisha AI Mission will significantly accelerate the adoption of AI technologies, not only within the state but also at the national level," Mahaling stated with optimism. He described Odisha's approach as "future-ready," focused on building a comprehensive innovation ecosystem supported by robust governance, advanced digital capabilities, and long-term policy certainty. "Odisha is steadily moving towards becoming a hub for AI in India," he affirmed.
Leadership Vision and Summit Objectives
In a video message, Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi echoed this vision, stating that AI is emerging as a key driver of governance reforms and sustainable development. "Odisha remains firmly committed to the responsible adoption of AI to enhance public service delivery, improve efficiency across sectors and empower citizens," the CM said.
The Regional AI Impact Summit aligns with the broader India AI Impact Summit, scheduled for February 2026 under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The conference is anchored in the theme of sustainability and inclusive growth. A key focus is the 'Democratisation of AI Resources', a theme assigned to Odisha under the IndiaAI 2026 Summit framework, where Odisha is one of the eight selected states.
Marking a concrete step in this journey, Chief Minister Majhi launched the Odisha AI Mission portal at Lok Seva Bhawan on Friday, creating a digital platform to steer the state's AI ambitions forward.
