J&K First To Secure Meity Nod For Establishing Centre Of Excellence In AI: CS

Jammu: In a significant stride towards strengthening the digital and innovation ecosystem of the Union Territory, Jammu & Kashmir has secured formal approval from the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) for the establishment of a state-of-the-art Centre of Excellence (CoE) in Artificial Intelligence (AI) at Indian Institute of Technology (IIT), Jammu.
Addressing the meeting Chief Secretary Atal Dulloo hailed the establishment of a Centre of Excellence (CoE) in Jammu & Kashmir and termed it a significant milestone, supported by the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY). This initiative aims to position the Union Territory as a leading hub for artificial intelligence (AI) and advanced technologies, with plans for IT parks in Srinagar and Jammu. The CoE is expected to provide local youth with essential skills in AI, enhancing their employability and fostering a culture of innovation and entrepreneurship. The Chief Secretary emphasized the strategic importance of the CoE in developing a robust research and innovation ecosystem, anticipating collaborations with national and international institutions, startups, and industry leaders. This initiative is projected to attract investments in the technology sector, promoting economic growth and job creation in the region. The government is committed to ensuring that the benefits of advanced technologies reach even the most remote areas of Jammu & Kashmir, supporting equitable and sustainable development. Dr. Piyush Singla, Secretary of Information Technology, described the initiative as transformative for the region’s innovation landscape, bridging the gap between academia and industry while empowering youth with future-ready skills. The CoE, approved under MeitY’s IndiaAI framework, will be established in a dedicated 10,000 sq. ft. space at IIT Jammu, with a total funding of ₹20 crore over four years, following a 90:10 funding pattern between MeitY and the UT Government. The CoE will operate through a Special Purpose Vehicle (SPV) framework, fostering collaboration among academia, government, industry, and corporate stakeholders. It aims to drive advanced research and development in critical sectors such as governance, healthcare, agriculture, and disaster management, while also nurturing startups and enhancing skill development. This initiative aligns with the broader objectives of the IndiaAI Mission, positioning Jammu & Kashmir for accelerated technological growth and socio-economic development.