Google, Tamil Nadu government collaborate to boost state's AI ecosystem
The Tamil Nadu government has inked a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with tech giant Google, to establish the 'Tamil Nadu AI Labs' in Chennai. The agreement was signed by an investment delegation from the state during their US visit, led by Chief Minister MK Stalin. This collaboration aims at setting up an artificial intelligence (AI) lab and training hub in Chennai, with the assistance of investment promotion agency Guidance Tamil Nadu.
AI lab to train two million youth in Tamil Nadu
The primary objective of the AI lab is to train approximately two million young individuals in AI. This initiative aligns with "Naan Mudhalvan," the state's flagship skilling scheme. The exact structure and operational details of the AI Lab are yet to be finalized, but it is expected to leverage Google's Start-up Accelerator programs for enhancing deep tech entrepreneurship culture and integrating AI into state governance.
Tamil Nadu's AI and advanced electronics manufacturing hub
Dr. TRB Rajaa, Tamil Nadu Minister for Industries, expressed his satisfaction with the collaboration with Google on advanced manufacturing. He highlighted that the recently announced made in India Pixel 8 phone is being manufactured in Tamil Nadu. "Our partnership with Google is a significant step forward toward establishing Tamil Nadu as a thriving AI and advanced electronics manufacturing hub," he stated during the MoU exchange ceremony at Google's Mountain View office.
Commitment to fostering inclusive growth through AI
Google stated in a statement that the collaboration will concentrate on "initiatives in key areas such as AI start-up enablement, skilling, and industrial ecosystem enablement including MSMEs, to create impactful, scalable AI solutions." Amit Zavery, GM/VP and Head of Platform of Google Cloud, expressed his excitement about partnering with the Tamil Nadu Government. "This collaboration underscores our shared commitment to fostering inclusive growth and technological progress through AI. We look forward to working together," said Zavery.
Google's first major venture into Tamil Nadu
This partnership marks Google's first significant venture into Tamil Nadu, despite having a substantial presence in Hyderabad and Bengaluru. Under the MoU, Google will collaborate with Guidance, the Government of Tamil Nadu's nodal agency for investment promotion and facilitation. The aim is to support the development of a robust AI ecosystem by offering access to advanced technologies and resources.
