The Maharashtra cabinet on Wednesday approved the Artificial Intelligence Policy 2026, setting an ambitious roadmap for the state’s technological growth. The policy aims to attract an investment of ₹10,000 crore and generate around 1.5 lakh employment opportunities. It reflects the government’s focus on strengthening its position in the rapidly evolving field of artificial intelligence.

According to an official statement, the government plans to establish six AI Excellence Centres and five AI Innovation Cities. These initiatives are expected to serve as hubs for research, development and innovation in AI. The policy places strong emphasis on building a solid AI infrastructure across the state to support long-term growth in this sector.

Electronics, Information Technology and Artificial Intelligence Minister Ashish Shelar said the primary objective of the policy is large-scale employment generation. He highlighted the need to prepare the workforce for future demands driven by technology.

The minister also said that two lakh youth will be trained in artificial intelligence technologies. This step aims to create a skilled workforce that is ready to meet the needs of industries adopting advanced technologies. The focus on training is expected to bridge the gap between education and industry requirements.

The policy also includes plans to develop 50 AI tools and use cases. These tools will help increase the adoption of AI across different industries and businesses in the state. By encouraging practical applications, the government aims to integrate AI into everyday business processes and improve efficiency.

To support these developments, the state will provide 2,000 Graphics Processing Units (GPUs). These are essential for building a strong computing infrastructure required for AI implementation. In addition, 5,000 Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) will receive financial support to adopt AI technologies. This move is expected to help smaller businesses upgrade their operations and stay competitive.

The government will also set up a venture capital fund of ₹500 crore to promote AI-based startups and unicorns. Out of this amount, ₹250 crore will be contributed by the state. This fund is expected to encourage innovation and support new businesses working in the AI space. The policy also includes subsidies for machinery purchases for industries that adopt AI-driven processes.

To further boost adoption, the government has proposed several incentives. These include concessions in electricity tariffs, power subsidies and relief in stamp duty. Such benefits are aimed at encouraging the use of AI in areas like education, employment, innovation and industry.

Another key feature of the policy is the development of AI-based agents. These agents will help simplify communication between citizens and the administration. This step is expected to make government services more efficient and accessible.

The government will also provide financial support to develop databases in Marathi and other local languages. This initiative aims to make AI systems more inclusive and relevant for local users. It also reflects the state’s effort to ensure that technological growth benefits a wider population.

A significant aspect of the policy is its focus on the ethical use of AI. The minister said Maharashtra will become the first state in the country to create a separate framework for ethical AI. This framework will guide the responsible development and use of artificial intelligence technologies.

Apart from the AI policy, the cabinet also took other important decisions. It approved the implementation of the MAJESTIC scheme, which stands for Maharashtra Accelerating Green Energy and Storage Technologies Integration in Connected Grid. The scheme aims to increase the use of green energy in the state. For this project, loans will be obtained from the World Bank, and a preliminary report will be submitted to the Centre.

In another move, the cabinet approved the establishment of the Green Maharashtra Commission. This body will oversee a large-scale tree plantation campaign. The target is to plant 300 crore trees across the state as part of its environmental efforts.

Overall, the decisions taken by the Maharashtra cabinet highlight a strong focus on technology, sustainability and employment. The AI policy, along with green initiatives, signals the state’s intent to balance innovation with environmental responsibility while creating new opportunities for its people.