In early 2026, the Government of Haryana announced the Haryana AI Mission, a comprehensive state-level initiative aimed at positioning Haryana as a premier hub for artificial intelligence innovation, research, and application. Backed by approximately ₹470–₹474 crore in assistance from the World Bank, the mission integrates advanced infrastructure, large-scale skilling, startup support, and AI-led governance reforms. It forms part of a broader strategy to modernise the state’s skill ecosystem and strengthen data-driven service delivery across government departments.
A central component of the mission is the development of dedicated AI infrastructure through the establishment of the Global Artificial Intelligence Centre (GAIC) in Gurugram and the Haryana Advanced Computing Facility (HACF) in Panchkula. These centres are envisioned as anchors for research, high-performance computing, industry collaboration, and AI deployment across sectors such as healthcare, agriculture, and logistics. By building such foundational capacity, Haryana aims to accelerate innovation while enabling real-world AI applications in governance and public service delivery.
Skill development is a major pillar of the Haryana AI Mission. The state intends to train 50,000 youth over three years (2025– 2028) in emerging technologies, including artificial intelligence, machine learning, and data science. This large-scale skilling initiative is designed to create a future- ready workforce, enhance employability, and support the growth of AI-driven startups and enterprises. By embedding advanced digital competencies into the skill ecosystem, the state seeks to strengthen its human capital and attract technology investments.
Financial backing for the mission is reinforced through complementary state-level measures. In addition to World Bank support, the ecosystem includes a
₹20 crore Haryana State Research Fund, a ₹2,000 crore Fund of Funds for startups, and the establishment of incubation centres across all HSIIDC industrial estates. These measures are aimed at fostering research-led innovation, encouraging entrepreneurship, and creating a robust AI startup ecosystem within the state.
The mission is also linked to a Special Purpose Vehicle (SPV) titled AI for Resilient Jobs, Urban Air Quality and Next Gen Skills Council. The SPV is responsible for implementing the Haryana Clean Air Program for Sustainable Development (HCAPSD), a $300 million Haryana Clean Air Project undertaken in collaboration with the World Bank. The programme focuses on industrial emission control, promotion of electric vehicle adoption, and agricultural interventions to improve environmental standards. By integrating AI with environmental and sustainability goals, Haryana is leveraging technology not only for economic growth but also for climate resilience and improved urban air quality. The SPV is led by Dr. J. Ganesan, IAS, as CEO, supported by GDi Partners, and is associated with the Haryana AI Summit 2026.
At the national level, the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY), Government of India, is supporting the state in establishing AI Centres of Excellence (AI-CoEs). Under a ₹1,160 crore scheme spanning four years, each Centre operates under a 40:40:20 funding model shared by MeitY, the State Government, and industry partners. A total of 58 AI-CoEs are to be established nationwide, with a unit cost of ₹20 crore per centre (₹7 crore CAPEX and ₹13 crore OPEX over four years). These Centres are expected to deliver startup incubation, prototype and product development, intellectual property generation, employment creation, and measurable skilling outcomes. Haryana has selected Gurugram and Panchkula for these Centres, with Hartron pursuing implementation.
Further strengthening the state’s AI skilling infrastructure, MeitY, under the Future Skills Pillar of the IndiaAI Mission, is implementing IndiaAI Data Labs in Government ITIs and Polytechnics to impart foundational skills in data and artificial intelligence, particularly in Tier-2 and Tier-3 cities. Through D.O. No. 1(3)/2024/IndiaAI-Part(1) dated 08 January 2026, MeitY enhanced Haryana’s allocation of IndiaAI Data Labs from six to twenty-three institutions. Earlier, six ITIs — Sonipat, Hatin, Nalwa, Kaithal, Rewari and Ambala Cantt. — had been shortlisted. The state has now been requested to provide details of the remaining seventeen institutions for funding support. Identification of these additional sites is currently underway by the Office of the Director General, Skill Development and Industrial Training Department, Government of Haryana, though the process has faced delays due to a vacant position. A letter dated 03-02-2026 has been issued requesting the expedited submission of the required details with the approval of the competent authority.
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Overall, the Haryana AI Mission reflects a multi-dimensional strategy that combines infrastructure development, large-scale skilling, startup financing, environmental sustainability, and alignment with national AI initiatives. By integrating global financial support, central government schemes, and state-led innovation policies, Haryana aims to create a resilient and future- ready AI ecosystem capable of delivering measurable economic, environmental, and governance outcomes.
Views Expressed By: Aparajita IAS, Additional Secretary and Director of the Information Technology, Electronics, and Communication Department, Government of Haryana