Deputy CM Ajit Pawar Proposes AI Skill Courses In Tie-Up With Microsoft For Maharashtra's Workforce

Recognising the growing need for skilled manpower with expertise in Artificial Intelligence (AI) across various sectors, Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar has directed the formulation of AI-focused skill development courses in collaboration with Microsoft and relevant government departments.

He said that separate AI training programmes should be developed for students at ITIs, polytechnics, and undergraduate and postgraduate levels.

As reported by FPJ earlier, a memorandum of understanding (MoU) has been signed between Microsoft and Maharashtra government to establish AI centers of excellence (CoEs) aimed at enhancing efficiency, transparency, and digital literacy in governance. Inspired by Microsoft's Center of Excellence in Noida and Google's IT Park in Hyderabad, a proposal is under consideration to set up an IT Park or Innovation Center in Baramati through the local Agricultural Science Center.

The meeting, chaired by Pawar, was attended by skill development minister Mangal Prabhat Lodha, additional chief secretary and other important secretaries of various departments were present for the meeting.

Key initiatives discussed included setting up world-class AI labs through Microsoft, launching AI training at the Baramati Agricultural Science Center, enhancing AI applications in agriculture, promoting knowledge exchange, and establishing research centers. The use of Microsoft’s 'e-Sanjeevani' technology for cancer treatment in Baramati’s medical college and hospitals across the state was also considered.

Pawar affirmed the state government’s commitment to expanding AI integration in sectors like agriculture, industry, and healthcare, stating that all support would be extended to organizations like Microsoft contributing to Maharashtra’s AI-driven transformation.