Maharashtra is launching an AI policy aimed at positioning the state as a leader in artificial intelligence, aligning with the Central Government's India AI Mission to spur innovation and entrepreneurship.

To support this initiative, Chief Minister Fadnavis announced a partnership with the Small Industries Development Bank of India (SIDBI) to create a Rs 100-crore fund dedicated to start-ups, particularly in tier-2 and tier-3 cities.

Fadnavis emphasized that Maharashtra has surpassed Bengaluru to become the start-up capital of India in terms of both numbers and valuation over the past year.

The government is also focused on easing the business environment by reducing compliance burdens, fast-tracking patent applications, and enabling self-certification under labor and environmental laws.

In addition to the AI policy, a Cyber Security Policy Task Force 2025 has been established to address the growing threats of cybercrime and ensure secure digital services for citizens.

Maharashtra currently offers over 800 online government services, underscoring the need for robust cybersecurity measures to protect these digital platforms.

The India AI Mission, which has a budget of Rs 10,372 crore, aims to enhance AI capabilities nationwide through various initiatives, including the India AI Datasets Platform and support for AI startups.

The Central Government is developing the India AI Datasets Platform to provide a comprehensive database of non-personal datasets that will support AI development.

Fadnavis is seeking input for a new start-up policy, which he expects to finalize within two months, aiming to make it the most progressive in India and keep Maharashtra at the forefront of the global start-up revolution.

Plans for an Innovation City, modeled after Gujarat's GIFT City, are underway to foster a supportive environment for technology and innovation, particularly in AI.

Fadnavis also highlighted the transformative potential of AI and plans to convert Industrial Training Institutes (ITIs) into centers of excellence focused on AI.

Maharashtra currently boasts over 25,000 start-ups, leading the nation in investment and valuation, and has emerged as the top start-up ecosystem in India.