Tamil Nadu joins forces with Google to explore AI initiatives, set up TN AI labs in Chennai

Artificial Intelligence (AI) has been booming across the world for quite some time now and the technology has seen rapid advancement in the last two years. People and nations are trying to get on board this wagon to avail its benefits and become the leaders of tomorrow. India is no exception. Recently, the Tamil Nadu government joined hands with Google to explore AI partnerships in the state. As part of this, a new facility called ‘Tamil Nadu AI Labs’ will also be set up in the state.

The state government on Saturday (August 31) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Google, according to a statement issued by the Industries Minister. Apart from this partnership with Google, Tamil Nadu has also signed five other agreements with companies like Nokia, PayPal and Infinix to set up centres in cities like Coimbatore, Madurai and Chennai.

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How Google Partnership Will Impact Tamil Nadu

Dr TRB Rajaa, Minister of Industries, announced on X (formerly Twitter) that the state government signed a memorandum of understanding with Google on Saturday, coinciding with Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin’s visit to the US. The minister also revealed plans to set up a Tamil Nadu AI Labs in Chennai. In partnership with Guidance, a state investment agency, Google will focus on integrating AI technologies in startups, SMEs and rural areas.

The minister said that this partnership will enable the Tamil Nadu government to provide AI training to 2 million youth through its Naan Mudhalvan training platform. Additionally, startups in the region will benefit from mentoring and networking opportunities, while SMEs will be able to access Google Cloud AI technology through an open marketplace.

Google Cloud Platform Chief Amit Zavery in a statement said, “This collaboration underscores our shared commitment to driving inclusive growth and technological advancement through AI. We look forward to working together to build a thriving AI ecosystem in Tamil Nadu that not only drives innovation and creates opportunities, but also equips individuals with the skills they need to thrive in the digital age.”