Bhubaneswar, Sep 13: In a landmark move to modernize public administration, the Odisha government has directed all departments to procure and implement Artificial Intelligence (AI) tools to enhance efficiency, accelerate service delivery, and empower government personnel.

The directive, issued by Additional Chief Secretary Surendra Kumar, outlines a strategic push toward embedding AI into daily governance operations.

The initiative is part of the broader Odisha Artificial Intelligence Policy 2025, which aims to transform the state into a hub of responsible and inclusive AI adoption. Departments have been granted administrative authority to acquire AI tools tailored to their operational needs.

The policy emphasizes that AI will be used to strengthen data-driven decision-making, streamline workflows, and improve policy outcomes.

A key focus of the directive is capacity building among government employees and officers. By leveraging AI, the government seeks to enhance workforce productivity and reduce procedural delays. However, the directive also includes a strong advisory against uploading any confidential or sensitive data to external AI platforms, ensuring data security and ethical compliance.

The letter from the General Administration Department stresses that AI integration should be done with caution, prioritizing secure deployment and adherence to privacy norms. Departments are encouraged to identify use cases where AI can make a tangible impact — such as predictive analytics, citizen engagement, and automated reporting.

This move aligns with Odisha’s vision to become a leader in digital governance and innovation. The Odisha AI Mission, established under the policy, will oversee implementation, coordinate pilot projects, and support cross-sectoral adoption.

As AI becomes a cornerstone of administrative reform, Odisha sets a precedent for other states aiming to harness technology for public good.