Odisha Becomes India’s First State to Launch an AI Policy

Odisha’s Bold Step Toward AI-Driven Governance

In May 2025, the state of Odisha became the first in India to officially adopt a statewide Artificial Intelligence Policy. This landmark initiative established the Odisha AI Mission, which aims to integrate AI into critical sectors such as governance, agriculture, healthcare, education, disaster management, and energy.

The policy is led by a high-level task force and supported by a dedicated AI cell within the Odisha Computer Application Centre. It is designed around four foundational pillars: digital infrastructure, skills development, environmental sustainability, and regulatory oversight. Emphasis is placed on deploying AI responsibly, addressing bias, and ensuring transparency and data ethics.

 

Transforming Public Services Through AI

The Odisha AI Mission is not a theoretical framework but an active implementation plan. It sets clear objectives for real-world application of AI across sectors:

• In healthcare, AI tools are being developed to assist frontline workers in rural areas with early diagnosis and health monitoring.

• In agriculture, AI is used to predict crop yields, monitor soil health, and manage water resources efficiently.

• In education, AI-powered platforms are being introduced to provide personalized learning in multiple languages.

• In disaster response, AI supports predictive modeling and early warning systems to improve preparedness.

By embedding AI into these services, Odisha aims to improve outcomes for millions of residents, particularly in rural and underserved regions.

Investing in Skills and Sustainable Innovation

To make the AI transformation inclusive, Odisha’s policy places strong emphasis on education and workforce training. The state plans to introduce AI education in 35 percent of its schools by 2029 and aims to expand this to 90 percent by 2036. Curricula will include fundamentals of AI, ethics, data literacy, and coding.

Odisha also plans to train up to 18,000 individuals annually in AI, machine learning, and cybersecurity. This includes government employees, students, and small business owners. A new cadre of AI officers will be appointed in every government department to oversee implementation and ensure ongoing digital transformation.

The policy promotes sustainability by encouraging renewable energy use in AI infrastructure, reducing environmental impact while scaling digital innovation.

Local Pilots Show Early Results

One of the first pilot projects under the AI Mission is taking place in the tribal district of Rayagada. Health workers there are using AI-enabled kits and mobile apps to track pregnancies and detect complications in maternal health. The early results show improved service delivery and better health outcomes in remote areas.

These pilots serve as practical demonstrations of how AI can bridge gaps in public service delivery and enhance the government’s ability to respond to community needs.