Assam is embracing an AI-First Strategy, positioning itself as India’s hub for AI-driven governance, economic growth, and innovation. With the upcoming Assam AI-IT Policy 2025, the state is fostering AI integration across industries, building a future-ready workforce, and creating a thriving tech ecosystem. Assam invites investors, startups, and enterprises to be part of this transformative journey. Gopinath Narayan, IA&AS, Principal Secretary, IT, Government of Assam, speaks to Rose Jaiswal of Elets News Network (ENN) in an exclusive interaction. Edited by: ABHINEET KUMAR | ENN.

What is Assam’s overall vision for Information Technology, and why is the government adopting an AI-First Strategy?

The world changed with the launch of ChatGPT in November 2022, marking the beginning of a Generative AI-fueled explosion in AI capabilities. Recognising this seismic shift, Assam is positioning itself as India’s first AI-First State—a bold strategy that integrates AI into governance, economic growth, and social transformation.

We believe intelligence is no longer scarce; AI, particularly Generative AI, has made vast computational intelligence widely accessible. The challenge for governments is to harness this abundance strategically—to drive the largescale generation of essential goods and services for citizens. Assam’s AI-First Strategy, reflected in our new AI-IT policy, is designed to enable AI-driven governance, economic expansion, and an empowered workforce.

The government is finalising the Assam AI-IT Policy 2025, which will pioneer AI adoption across industries and governance, ensuring AI enhances efficiency, innovation, and inclusivity in the state’s digital transformation journey. Assam is renowned for its one-horned rhinos, and through our policies, we aim to make it a breeding ground for the next generation of tech unicorns.

What major initiatives will the government undertake to accelerate AI & IT adoption in Assam?

Assam’s AI & IT roadmap is built on three key pillars:

1. AI-Driven Government Services

• AI will be integrated into governance to ensure faster, more transparent, and citizen-friendly services.
• AI-powered multilingual chatbots and digital assistants will make government services more accessible in Assamese, Bengali, Bodo, and other languages, empowering citizens with knowledge and enabling them to access their rights within stipulated timelines.

2. Building an AI-ready workforce

• AI will be introduced into school and college curricula to prepare students for AI-driven jobs.
• A state-sponsored AI learning portal is being planned to provide access to courses from leading EdTech platforms.

3. Creating an AI & IT Business Ecosystem

• Cloud computing and high-speed internet subsidies for startups and IT firms will reduce operational costs.
• A local AI talent marketplace will connect Assam’s skilled youth with AI-focused companies.
• Innovation hubs will be established in universities, fostering startups through collaboration with industry leaders.

These initiatives will position Assam as a competitive AI & IT destination while ensuring inclusive growth and job creation.

How will Assam’s AI & IT strategy contribute to economic growth and job creation?

AI & IT will be key drivers of Assam’s economic transformation. The government is focusing on:

• Incentivising AI & IT Companies: AI and IT businesses operating in Assam will receive financial incentives for establishing operations and providing services locally. This will drive growth in both the tech sector and traditional industries leveraging AI for enhanced productivity and service delivery, thereby boosting Assam’s GDP.
• Job Creation in AI & IT: By fostering AI-driven startups and attracting IT firms, Assam aims to create thousands of high-skilled jobs in AI, cloud computing, and software development.

By combining economic incentives, skilling initiatives, and AIdriven governance, we are future-proofing Assam’s economy while creating sustainable employment opportunities.

What makes Assam an attractive destination for IT & AI investments?

Assam offers a strategic advantage for AI & IT investments due to four key factors:

• AI-First Governance: The government is actively integrating AI into public services, ensuring rapid adoption and scalability. m
• Incentives for AI & IT Firms: Cloud computing support, tax benefits, and infrastructure assistance will reduce the cost of doing business. m
• Skilled Workforce & AI Talent Marketplace: Assam is investing in AI skilling programs, ensuring a strong pipeline of trained professionals. m
• Gateway to the Northeast: Assam serves as a bridge to the entire Northeast, making it a natural IT hub for regional expansion.

With these factors, along with a young population, Assam is poised to become a leader in AI & IT-driven economic growth.

Also Read: Assam a destination for all seasons and reasons

What message do you have for investors considering Assam as a destination for IT & AI businesses?

Assam is not just adopting AI—we are embedding AI into our governance, economy, and workforce development. The state is finalizing an AI-IT policy that will create an enabling environment for businesses to thrive.

We invite investors, entrepreneurs, and global IT firms to be part of this exciting transformation. Whether you are an AI startup, IT enterprise, or technology-driven business, Assam offers the incentives, infrastructure, and skilled workforce needed for success.

This is the right time to invest in Assam’s AI & IT future. Come, partner with us, and be part of an AI-driven revolution that benefits businesses, citizens, and the economy alike.

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