Odisha Government Makes AI Training Mandatory for Officers

In a major step toward digital governance, the Odisha government has made it mandatory for officers to gain basic knowledge of Artificial Intelligence (AI). This initiative is aimed at equipping the administrative machinery with essential digital skills to enhance public service delivery and streamline governance.

Chief Secretary Manoj Ahuja has directed all senior officials to complete at least one introductory AI course, which are freely available on trusted online learning platforms. The move reflects the government’s focus on making administration more efficient, data-driven, and citizen-friendly. According to the state, AI is expected to play a transformative role in governance—improving planning, decision-making, and citizen interaction.

To formalize the initiative, Ahuja has issued a letter to all Additional Chief Secretaries, Principal Secretaries, Department Secretaries, and District Collectors. The letter urges top officials to lead by example and highlights how the step aligns with Odisha’s larger goal of creating a tech-savvy and responsive administration.

The Chief Secretary emphasized that AI can help simplify government processes, make grievance redressal systems more intelligent, and improve real-time monitoring of public services. AI tools also offer the ability to manage large volumes of data efficiently, enabling the government to design more targeted and effective policies.

Departments across the state have been instructed to ensure that their officers enroll in at least one basic AI course. These training sessions are intended to provide a foundational understanding of AI principles, tools, and their practical use in everyday administrative functions.

Ahuja further stressed that embracing technologies like AI is no longer optional but essential for the future of governance. As public expectations evolve and digital tools become more central to administration, officers must be equipped to adapt and lead the change.

Through this initiative, the Odisha government is laying the foundation for a future-ready bureaucracy. By integrating AI training into its workforce development, the state hopes to foster innovation, improve public engagement, and ensure more effective and responsive governance for all citizens.