Maharashtra Unveils Artificial Intelligence Policy, Aims to Attract Rs 10,000 Crore Investment, Establish Excellence Centres

Maharashtra Cabinet Approves Artificial Intelligence Policy 2026 with Rs 10,000 Crore Investment

The Maharashtra cabinet has approved the Artificial Intelligence Policy 2026, a move aimed at generating large-scale employment opportunities and promoting the adoption of AI technologies across industries and businesses in the state. The policy envisages an investment of Rs 10,000 crore in the sector, which is expected to create 1.5 lakh employment opportunities.

Electronics, Information Technology and Artificial Intelligence Minister Ashish Shelar highlighted the primary objective of the policy, which is to generate large-scale employment. The government plans to train two lakh youth in artificial intelligence technologies to build a skilled workforce aligned with emerging technological demands. This will involve the development of 50 AI tools and use-cases to increase the adoption of AI across industries and businesses in the state.

To support the implementation of the policy, the state plans to provide 2,000 Graphics Processing Units (GPUs) to build robust computing infrastructure. Additionally, 5,000 MSMEs will receive financial support to adopt AI technologies. A venture capital fund of Rs 500 crore will also be set up to promote AI-based startups and unicorns, with the state contributing Rs 250 crore. Subsidies will be provided for machinery purchases for AI-driven industries, and incentives such as concessions in electricity tariffs, power subsidies, and stamp duty will be offered to promote AI adoption in education, employment, innovation, and industry.

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The policy also includes the development of AI-based agents to simplify interaction between citizens and the administration. Financial support will be extended to develop databases in Marathi and other local languages. Notably, Maharashtra will become the first state in the country to create a separate framework for ethical AI.

Comparison of Key Provisions

In other decisions, the cabinet approved the implementation of the 'MAJESTIC' scheme, which aims to increase the use of green energy in the state. Loans will be obtained from the World Bank for the scheme, and a preliminary report will be sent to the Centre. The cabinet also approved the establishment of the Green Maharashtra Commission to undertake an ambitious tree plantation campaign, with the goal of planting 300 crore trees.

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