The foundation for this policy began in January last year when the state government formed a 16-member committee tasked with creating recommendations for Maharashtra’s first independent AI framework.
Maharashtra aims to draw in investments exceeding ₹10,000 crore and to generate over 1.5 lakh job opportunities by 2031, as reported by Business Line. The government also intends to train nearly 2 lakh students, professionals, and young workers in AI-related skills in the coming years.
AI infrastructure and government systems
A significant aspect of the policy is the development of digital infrastructure for artificial intelligence. According to the report, the state plans to create a computing ecosystem with at least 2,000 GPUs to facilitate AI-driven projects and services.
Government departments will have access to shared resources through a ‘Compute-as-a-Service’ framework. The policy also suggests the establishment of specialized ‘AI Cities’ in five innovation-focused sectors.
To bolster regional language AI tools, Maharashtra will create datasets encompassing Marathi, local dialects, and tribal languages. These datasets will be unified under a ‘State AI Data Exchange’ platform and integrated with the Centre’s AI Kosh initiative.
The policy additionally includes provisions for ethical AI usage, mandating annual AI readiness audits for government departments.
Support for MSMEs and start-ups
To promote AI adoption among small businesses, the government will provide subsidies covering 20% of implementation costs for 5,000 MSMEs. A centralized support platform called ‘Maha AI Tools Hub’ will also be initiated.
The report further states that the state has proposed a ₹500 crore AI Startup Venture Fund, with equal contributions anticipated from both the government and private investors.
As part of the policy, eligible start-ups can receive grants up to ₹1 crore. Additional incentives have been established for women-led enterprises, offering financial support up to ₹2.5 crore and extra assistance of 25%.
The Maharashtra government has likewise introduced numerous incentives for industries investing in AI initiatives. These include up to 20% support on fixed capital investment, a complete waiver on stamp duty, and electricity tariff assistance of ₹2 per unit for a decade. Companies will also benefit from reimbursement amounts up to ₹8 lakh for domestic patents, ₹10 lakh for international patents, and as much as ₹25 lakh for certification and international exhibition expenses.
