Gujarat government collaborates with IBM to create AI hub in GIFT City
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The Government of Gujarat’s Department of Science and Technology has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with IBM to establish an AI Cluster in Gujarat International Finance Tec (GIFT) City.
This initiative aims to leverage IBM's Watson technology to boost innovation and collaboration among financial institutions within the city.
According to the agreement, financial institutions in GIFT City will benefit from access to an AI Sandbox, support in providing proof of concept, AI literacy programs, and digital assistant solutions. These resources are intended to facilitate the adoption and integration of AI technologies in the financial sector.
Gujarat Chief Minister Bhupendrabhai Patel expressed optimism about the collaboration, stating, "This MoU with IBM will position Gujarat at the forefront of AI adoption and drive the state’s digital transformation efforts."
IBM's contribution includes providing software technologies and platforms through a cloud environment. This will enable financial institutions to customize and fine-tune large language AI models in a secure sandbox setting. Additionally, IBM plans to develop a digital assistant solution to help these institutions integrate their customized AI models.
Sandip Patel, Managing Director of IBM India & South Asia, emphasized the strategic importance of AI for businesses, highlighting the potential for increased productivity, innovation, and enhanced customer experience. "This collaboration is a significant milestone in our ongoing partnership with the Government of Gujarat to accelerate the state’s digital transformation. By establishing this AI cluster, we aim to make cutting-edge AI solutions readily available to the dynamic financial sector in GIFT City," he said.
As part of its broader commitment, IBM will also develop an AI curriculum for schools and universities across Gujarat. This initiative aligns with IBM’s goal to skill 30 million people by 2030 and train 2 million learners in AI by the end of 2026.
During the MoU signing, Mona Khandhar, Principal Secretary of the Department of Science and Technology, emphasized the importance of these detailed agreements. "We are working to expedite AI adoption among MSMEs. Our effort is to bring this futuristic technology to the people," she noted.
The collaboration will also include literacy programs and professional certifications to enhance the skill sets of individuals in the state, preparing them for an AI-driven future economy.