Assam signs MoU with Google to improve administration with AI

The Assam govt on Tuesday, in the presence of information technology minister Keshab Mahanta, signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Google to improve efficiency, speed and transparency in state administration through the use of artificial intelligence (AI).
Focussing on creating robust frameworks for AI governance, the MoU includes ethical guidelines to ensure transparency and equity, as well as capacity-building programmes, to enhance the AI skills of the state’s workforce. A key component of this initiative is the AI centre of excellence for governance solutions, which the state govt is establishing, in collaboration with Google and their implementation partner, Paradigm IT.
The agreement was formalised by Gopinath Narayan, principal secretary of the state IT department, and director and country head of Google Cloud, Ashish Wattal. Officials further said the govt was focussed on acquiring necessary technical capabilities and infrastructure to position the state as the ‘AI hub of India in the northeast.’ “The agreement provides us with a framework to develop AI capabilities within the govt, enhance skills among officials and students, and conduct pilot projects in areas where AI can offer value,” said Mahanta.
The minister added that the centre of excellence will serve as a problem-solving partner for various departments. He emphasised that this partnership will also ensure AI as a tool for “guardian of trust, privacy and equity.”
“It will address biases, safeguard data sovereignty and promote innovation that benefits all sections of the society. To our partners at Google, I extend our deepest gratitude. Your global leadership in AI, combined with a deep understanding of India’s diverse needs, makes you the ideal partner in this endeavour,” he said.
As Assam prepares to launch the Assam AI-IT Policy, 2025, the govt is looking to establish the state as India’s leading hub for ethical AI-driven governance, economic growth and inclusive development. Mahanta expressed hope that the MoU will stimulate investments in skilling programmes, cloud infrastructure and generative AI applications for governance.
“It will equip our workforce — our young engineers, data scientists and administrators — with certifications and tools to thrive in the digital economy, creating jobs and opportunities in the state,” the minister added.
Mahanta said the state, under the leadership of CM Himanta Biswa Sarma, has adopted an “AI-First Strategy” as part of its digital transformation agenda.
State chief secretary Ravi Kota said the MoU was a historic step for Assam’s future. “As a result of this agreement with Google, every department of the govt will be particularly aided in serving the state’s residents with more dedication and efficiency,” Kota said.