AI Revolution: Three New Centres of Excellence Launched for Agriculture, Healthcare, and Sustainable Development

Union Minister for Education, Shri Dharmendra Pradhan, has announced the creation of three Centres of Excellence (CoEs) in Artificial Intelligence (AI), focusing specifically on the sectors of Healthcare, Agriculture, and Sustainable Cities. These centres aim to foster interdisciplinary research and innovation to tackle significant challenges within these vital fields.

The CoEs will be led by renowned institutions, including AIIMS, IIT Delhi, IIT Ropar, and IIT Kanpur, in partnership with industry stakeholders and startups. This initiative, with a budget allocation of ₹990 crore, was first proposed in the Union Budget 2023-24 under Paragraph 60 and will extend from FY 2023-24 to FY 2027-28.

Emphasis on Agricultural Innovation

The establishment of an AI CoE dedicated to agriculture represents a major advancement in integrating technology into this sector, which is anticipated to enhance interest among youth in agricultural careers. Minister Pradhan noted that this AI CoE will further stimulate the startup ecosystem in India and contribute to generating job opportunities for the younger generation.

Elevating India’s International Reputation

During the launch event in New Delhi, Shri Pradhan expressed his enthusiasm for the potential of these centres to evolve into global hubs for AI-based solutions. He highlighted their crucial role in shaping public policy and bolstering India’s standing in the global AI arena. According to him, the CoEs will not only facilitate research but also strengthen the startup landscape and create employment, positioning India as a frontrunner in AI development.

The event featured participation from prominent figures, including Shri K. Sanjay Murthy, Secretary of the Department of Higher Education; Shri Sridhar Vembu, CEO of Zoho Corporation; and various senior officials, industry leaders, and startup entrepreneurs. To acknowledge their dedication to this initiative, Shri Pradhan presented symbolic tokens to the representatives of the institutions leading the CoEs.

Interdisciplinary Collaboration for National Growth

Shri Sanjay Murthy emphasized the significance of interdisciplinary collaboration, highlighting that these CoEs are designed to benefit the nation as a whole. He stressed the importance of competitive, challenge-based methodologies within educational institutions to effectively address real-world challenges.

Shri Sridhar Vembu, co-chair of the Apex Committee overseeing the CoEs, underscored the long-term advantages of developing India’s talent pool and the comprehensive impact these AI centres will have on the nation’s health, agriculture, and urban development. The AI CoEs will focus on advanced applications, creating scalable solutions, and cultivating top talent in these areas. This initiative aligns with the government’s vision of "Make AI in India, Make AI work for India," marking a significant milestone in India’s quest to become a global leader in AI-driven innovation.