Uttar Pradesh is set to embark on an ambitious venture to establish India’s inaugural AI city in Lucknow, with the state government inviting proposals for the design, development, and operation of this groundbreaking initiative. The AI city is envisioned as a dynamic hub that will cultivate cutting-edge technology, research centers, and educational institutions to propel the AI ecosystem forward.
Nurturing the Workforce of the Future
The UP Electronics Corporation Ltd, the nodal agency overseeing the project, has released an expression of interest (EoI), encouraging real estate developers to participate in the creation and management of the AI city. The primary objective is to nurture the workforce of the future, providing a platform where ideas thrive and fostering an environment conducive to creativity, innovation, and technological advancement.
AI Centers of Excellence in Lucknow
Lucknow is already a host to Centers of Excellence specializing in fields such as AI and medtech, showcasing the city’s commitment to integrating AI technologies. The AI Centre of Excellence at IIIT Lucknow has played a pivotal role in supporting over 15 AI/ML startups, contributing to the development of a vibrant culture of creativity and entrepreneurship.
Strategic Locations and Infrastructure
The IT and Electronics Department has identified potential land parcels in key locations of Lucknow for the development of the AI City. A 40-acre land parcel in the Nadarganj industrial area, strategically located near key infrastructure and offering connectivity to the Lucknow-Kanpur road and the Lucknow International Airport, holds significant promise for this visionary project.
Global AI Market Growth and India’s Gen AI Startups
The move to establish India’s first AI city aligns with the global growth of the AI market, valued at $137 billion in 2022 and projected to witness a compound annual growth rate of 37.3% from 2023 to 2030. In India, the emergence of generative AI (Gen AI) has led to the rise of over 70 startups, securing over $440 million in funding between 2019 and Q3 2023. The indigenous Gen AI market is anticipated to reach $17 billion by 2030, reflecting the sector’s exponential growth.
Government Focus on AI Development
The government’s commitment to AI development is evident through initiatives such as formulating regulations for AI. The central government, recognizing the potential of AI, aims to foster its growth, safeguard interests, and promote innovation in the country. Recent statements from Minister of State for Information Technology Rajeev Chandrasekhar highlight the government’s plan to fund and support AI startups, further emphasizing the growing significance of AI in India.
