Daijiworld Media Network – Thiruvananthapuram
Thiruvananthapuram, Jun 19: Kerala Chief Minister V D Satheesan on Friday announced a Rs 50-crore initiative aimed at empowering Generation-Z, describing the digitally native generation as a major force shaping the state's future economy and innovation landscape.
Presenting his maiden Budget in the Assembly, Satheesan said Gen-Z, having grown up in the digital era, is among the fastest adopters of emerging technologies and has the potential to drive transformational change across sectors.
He noted that young people are increasingly embracing advancements in Artificial Intelligence (AI), robotics, data science, the Internet of Things (IoT) and virtual reality technologies.
“The creative abilities and technological excellence of the younger generation can be brought together to develop Kerala’s startups, innovation hubs, research centres and smart industries, while emphasising digital ethics, privacy protection, cybersecurity and core human values,” the Chief Minister said.
According to Satheesan, Gen-Z's ability to develop innovative solutions to complex challenges and create systemic changes will make the generation a key driver of future industries and economic growth.
“To support this vision, an amount of Rs 50 crore has been allocated,” he announced.
The Budget also unveiled a Malayalam AI Initiative, for which Rs 10 crore has been earmarked.
Under the programme, Kerala plans to create an open Malayalam-language dataset that will be freely available for developers, researchers and innovators. The initiative will also support the development of Malayalam AI models that can be commercialised and deployed across various sectors.
“Kerala will launch a Malayalam AI Initiative by funding an open Malayalam dataset and supporting the development of Malayalam AI models that innovators can take to market,” Satheesan said.
In addition, the Budget proposed facilities for screening short films and documentaries created by Gen-Z filmmakers, as well as spaces for contemporary dance and music performances at the proposed M T Vasudevan Nair Cultural Park in Kozhikode.
The announcements reflect the state's focus on nurturing innovation, technology-driven entrepreneurship and creative industries among young people.