UP govt to scale up its AI ecosystem with a network of 65 labs

Pitching the state as a future leader in the Artificial Intelligence ecosystem, the Uttar Pradesh government is setting up a network of 65 data & AI labs across the state. While two of these labs are operational in Lucknow and Gorakhpur districts, another unit has been established in Pilibhit with private partnership. The government has already approved 49 data and AI labs even as the process to identify locations for the remaining 13 labs is likely to begin soon.

These labs will function as innovation centres, enabling research, experimentation, and deployment of intelligent systems using machine learning and data science.  The facilities are designed to foster startup activity, applied research, and workforce skills in advanced technologies.

Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath has announced a ₹2,000 crore outlay for the state’s AI Mission over the next 3 years. The programme aims to integrate AI applications across critical sectors including healthcare, policing, agriculture, education, and governance. The state has also partnered with the central government’s IndiaAI Mission through a memorandum of understanding with UP Development Systems Corporation Limited (UPDESCO) to strengthen the AI ecosystem and accelerate deployment.

According to Anurag Yadav, principal secretary of IT and electronics, the initiative is focused on building digital skills, promoting innovation, and generating new employment opportunities.  UPDESCO managing director Neha Jain said the labs will be equipped with modern infrastructure and advanced technical capabilities, while IndiaAI chief operating officer Kavita Bhatia highlighted the potential for Uttar Pradesh to emerge as a global AI hub through startup-led innovation.