A major discussion on widening access to artificial intelligence took place in Bhubaneswar as national and state leaders came together to shape future AI strategies.
The India AI Mission under the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology, in collaboration with the Odisha government, hosted the “Democratising AI Resources Working Group Meeting” in Bhubaneswar on Thursday. The session was co chaired by Egypt and focused on “Democratising AI Resources”. It also marked the start of the Regional AI Impact Conference Odisha, scheduled from 18 December to 20 December 2025.
Senior policymakers, industry leaders and academics attended the meeting to discuss plans for data infrastructure, access to computing power, skill development and sector wise AI deployment under the India AI Mission.
The Working Group Meetings are a key part of the India AI Impact Summit framework. These include 7 specialised thematic groups that bring together participants from government, industry, academia and civil society. Their goal is to create practical roadmaps for AI adoption across the country.
The thematic focus areas include Human Capital, Inclusion for Social Empowerment, Safe and Trusted AI, Resilience, Innovation, Efficiency, Science, and AI for Economic Development and Social Good.
The Bhubaneswar session highlighted the importance of equitable access to core AI resources. It aimed to build shared understanding on how foundational AI tools can be made available across regions and sectors.
On the sidelines of the meeting, Odisha IT and Electronics Minister Mukesh Mahaling said the main objective is to align Odisha with the upcoming India AI programme in New Delhi in February. The national programme will be hosted by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. He added that similar AI focused activities are being held across India and Odisha has been chosen as one of the key regions.
The minister thanked Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi for supporting and enabling the event.
Mahaling said discussions are also focusing on the future of sustainable AI. He explained that one pillar is built around People, Planet and Progress, and how AI can support inclusive growth and environmental well being. The second pillar focuses on clean and ethical AI, with an emphasis on strengthening human capital so that citizens can benefit from AI driven solutions.
The 3 day programme is expected to lead to new service models and collaborative frameworks that make AI more affordable, accessible and effective for governance, industry and society.
Also read: Viksit Workforce for a Viksit Bharat
Do Follow: The Mainstream formerly known as CIO News LinkedIn Account | The Mainstream formerly known as CIO News Facebook | The Mainstream formerly known as CIO News Youtube | The Mainstream formerly known as CIO News Twitter
About us:
The Mainstream is a premier platform delivering the latest updates and informed perspectives across the technology business and cyber landscape. Built on research-driven, thought leadership and original intellectual property, The Mainstream also curates summits & conferences that convene decision makers to explore how technology reshapes industries and leadership. With a growing presence in India and globally across the Middle East, Africa, ASEAN, the USA, the UK and Australia, The Mainstream carries a vision to bring the latest happenings and insights to 8.2 billion people and to place technology at the centre of conversation for leaders navigating the future.
