In a landmark move towards technology-driven governance, Keralam has become the first state in India to create a dedicated cabinet-level portfolio for Artificial Intelligence (AI). The newly formed United Democratic Front (UDF) government has officially included AI as a separate ministerial responsibility, signalling the state’s intent to position itself at the forefront of emerging technologies and digital innovation.
The decision was announced through an official gazette notification issued by the state government, detailing the allocation of portfolios among ministers in the new cabinet led by Chief Minister V D Satheesan.
P K Kunhalikutty Entrusted with AI Portfolio
Senior Indian Union Muslim League (IUML) leader P K Kunhalikutty has been given charge of a broad cluster of departments, including:
- Industries & Commerce
- Information Technology
- Artificial Intelligence
- Start-ups
- Mining and Geology
- Handlooms & Textiles
The allocation places Kunhalikutty in a key position to drive Keralam’s technology ecosystem, strengthen innovation-led industrial growth, and explore AI-based governance and citizen service solutions.
Officials said the creation of a dedicated AI portfolio reflects the government’s focus on integrating advanced technologies into administration, public services, industry and startup development.
Portfolio Distribution in the New UDF Government
The portfolio allocation was approved by Governor Rajendra Vishwanath Arlekar on the recommendation of Chief Minister V D Satheesan.
According to the official notification:
- V D Satheesan will oversee Finance, Ports and Law departments
- Ramesh Chennithala has been assigned Home, Vigilance, Fire and Rescue Services, and Prisons
- Sunny Joseph will handle Electricity and Environment
- K Muraleedharan has been given Health and Medical Education
- AP Anilkumar will oversee Revenue-related departments
- PC Vishnunadh has been assigned Tourism and Culture
- M Liju will manage Co-operation and Excise
UDF Returns to Power After Ten Years
V D Satheesan was sworn in as the 24th Chief Minister of Keralam on May 18 along with a 20-member cabinet. The UDF returned to power after a decade by defeating the Left Democratic Front (LDF) in the Assembly elections and securing 102 seats in the 140-member Assembly.
The formation of a dedicated AI ministry is being viewed as one of the most notable policy decisions of the new government.
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Focus on AI-Driven Governance and Innovation
The move highlights Keralam’s ambition to emerge as a leading hub for artificial intelligence, digital governance and startup innovation. Industry observers believe the dedicated AI portfolio could help accelerate policy development in areas such as:
- AI-based governance systems
- Digital public services
- Startup ecosystem growth
- Skill development and emerging technologies
- Industry automation and innovation
Interestingly, neighbouring Tamil Nadu’s ruling Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) had also proposed the creation of a dedicated AI Ministry, AI University and AI City in its election manifesto, reflecting the growing political and policy focus on artificial intelligence across states.