The Government of Odisha has entered into a partnership with OpenAI to roll out a series of initiatives focused on strengthening artificial intelligence capabilities across the state. The collaboration aims to build AI skills among students and government officials, pilot AI-driven applications within the public sector, and support use cases in the Odia language, aligning technology adoption with local needs and governance priorities.
A key component of the partnership is the launch of structured online AI training programmes for college students across Odisha. These courses are designed to introduce students to practical AI concepts and tools, helping them develop job-relevant skills in a rapidly evolving technology landscape. In parallel, the programme includes hands-on training sessions for government officials, with a focus on applying AI for productivity, decision support and responsible use in administrative workflows.
The collaboration also extends to experimentation and innovation within government departments. OpenAI will provide API credits to Odisha’s Electronics and Information Technology Department to support pilot AI projects. One of the planned initiatives is the development of a Government Productivity Co-Pilot powered by ChatGPT, intended to help officials streamline routine tasks, access information more efficiently and improve overall operational effectiveness.
“For AI to truly deliver public value, it must be accessible, practical, and grounded in local context,” said Pragya Misra, Head of Strategy and Global Affairs, OpenAI India. Her statement underscores the emphasis on ensuring that AI solutions are tailored to the specific cultural, linguistic and administrative realities of the region.
State officials highlighted the broader impact of the partnership on digital governance and capacity building. Manas Panda, Special Secretary to the Government and Managing Director of the Odisha Computer Application Center, said, “Our collaboration with OpenAI will help scale AI awareness and skills among students and government officials.” He added that the initiative is aligned with the IndiaAI Mission as well as Odisha’s long-term digital governance and innovation objectives.
By combining skill development, pilot deployments and local language support, the partnership seeks to create a sustainable foundation for AI adoption in Odisha. The initiative reflects a growing trend among Indian states to leverage AI not only as a technology upgrade, but as a tool for improving governance, workforce readiness and public service delivery.
