Clears path for ₹10,000 crore investment and 1.5 lakh job opportunities
Goal: Attract over ₹10,000 crore in investment by 2031.
Training: AI skill development for 2 lakh youth.
Research: Establishment of the ‘Maharashtra Centre for Advanced Artificial Intelligence’ (MCAI).
Security: Mandatory AI readiness audits for every government department.
Mumbai, April 29: Maharashtra has taken a historic step in the global technological race today. To promote the effective use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in the state’s industries, administration, and public services, the state government has approved the ‘Maharashtra AI Policy-2026’. Announced during Tuesday’s cabinet meeting, this policy aims to establish Maharashtra as the national ‘hub for ethical AI development.’
Future Built on 7 Pillars
The policy is primarily structured around seven pillars. As part of statewide infrastructure development, a computing capacity of at least 2,000 GPUs (Graphics Processing Units) will be created, allowing government departments to access these facilities under the ‘Compute-as-a-Service’ model. Notably, the policy includes an ambitious plan to develop five new ‘AI Cities.’ Efforts will also be made to preserve linguistic heritage by creating independent datasets for the Marathi language, regional dialects, and tribal languages.
Rain of Incentives for Startups and MSMEs
To bring small industries into the AI mainstream, 5,000 MSMEs will receive a 20% subsidy on AI implementation costs. Furthermore, a dedicated ₹500 crore ‘Venture Fund’ will be set up to strengthen the AI ecosystem in the state, with equal contributions from the government and the industry. Special financial assistance of up to ₹1.25 crore will be provided to encourage women-led startups.
Special Attractions for Investors
Industries investing in Maharashtra will be eligible for up to 20% capital subsidy, 100% stamp duty waiver, and electricity rate concessions for up to 10 years. The government will also focus on making life easier for the common man by establishing ‘Centers of Excellence’ in six critical sectors: healthcare, agriculture, education, and revenue.
“A New Chapter in the State’s Socio-Economic Progress” – Chief Minister
“The nature of 70% of jobs will change due to Artificial Intelligence in the future. Recognizing this shift, we have drafted this policy to keep pace with the times. Our goal is for Maharashtra to become a reference state for the ‘India AI Mission.’ This policy is not limited to technology alone; it will be a new chapter in the economic and social progress of the state.”
— Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis
