Daijiworld Media Network - Pune
Pune, Aug 20: Maharashtra chief minister Devendra Fadnavis on Wednesday called for the urgent development of skilled human capital in quantum computing, artificial intelligence (AI), and semiconductors, warning that the state — despite being India’s data center capital — must rapidly adapt to meet the challenges posed by the accelerating AI revolution.
Speaking at the Silver Jubilee Foundation Day of the Maharashtra Knowledge Corporation Limited (MKCL), Fadnavis said that while Maharashtra boasts 60% of the country’s data center capacity, the next big leap lies in making advanced tech knowledge accessible to every citizen.
“When we’re dealing with the formidable challenge of AI, it is essential that knowledge does not stay confined to the elite. Data has become a new form of global wealth, and we must move forward by recognizing the emerging values and risks,” Fadnavis said.
He urged institutions like MKCL to drive a grassroots technological transformation, empowering people with tools to thrive in the age of AI. “We must create a generation that can understand and navigate rapid societal changes brought by technology,” he added, pledging the state government’s full support to MKCL’s innovation-driven initiatives.
Highlighting the changing nature of employment, Fadnavis stressed the importance of delivering tech education to the next generation. “Just like we rode the wave of information technology in the past, Maharashtra must now lead in the AI era,” he asserted.
The Chief Minister praised MKCL’s 24-year journey, especially its role in improving governance transparency and administrative efficiency through digital solutions. He noted that MKCL’s newly launched platform allows access to 50,000 digital books, expanding educational opportunities across the state.
Fadnavis also credited MKCL for bridging the digital divide when the internet first emerged in India. “MKCL didn’t just chase profit — it built a network of 6,500 entrepreneurs and a system capable of reaching the last citizen. It worked with foresight and social responsibility,” he said.
Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar, speaking at the same event, emphasized MKCL’s evolution from promoting basic computer literacy to now preparing youth for cutting-edge technologies. He highlighted the importance of taking innovation to rural India and reassured that funding would not be an obstacle in setting up a dedicated tech research institute under MKCL and the IT Department.
IT Minister Ashish Shelar also applauded MKCL’s achievements, noting that over two crore individuals have received IT training through its programs. He underscored the need to pair technological advancement with regional language empowerment, saying, “Digital literacy should grow alongside the Marathi language as we march forward in a globalized world.”
As Maharashtra aims to future-proof itself in a rapidly evolving digital landscape, the state leadership made it clear: education, inclusivity, and innovation will be the pillars of progress — and MKCL is expected to lead that charge.