AI for a Transparent and Efficient Tomorrow
Artificial Intelligence is no longer a distant future—it is a present-day tool revolutionizing everything from healthcare to agriculture, and now, governance. As governments around the world seek smarter, faster, and more transparent ways to serve citizens, AI is emerging as a powerful ally. By enabling data-driven decisions, predictive analysis, and efficient public service delivery, AI can transform the administrative machinery into a more accountable and responsive system.
Recognizing this potential, Odisha has taken a pioneering step. In a landmark decision aimed at modernizing governance, the state has made AI training mandatory for its senior officers. This forward-thinking initiative not only aims to upskill the bureaucracy but also signals a strong commitment to transparent, technology-driven administration.
Mandatory AI Training for Officers: A Governance Gamechanger
Odisha Chief Secretary Manoj Ahuja recently issued a directive mandating all senior administrative officers—including Additional Chief Secretaries, Principal Secretaries, and District Collectors—to complete at least one foundational AI course within three months. These courses, available on platforms such as the iGOT Karmayogi Portal, Wadhwani Institute, IISc Bengaluru, and globally recognized programs like “Elements of AI” and “AI for Everyone,” are designed to build a robust understanding of AI applications in governance.
The Chief Secretary highlighted how AI can enhance state functions—from streamlining grievance redressal systems and improving welfare delivery to enabling smart planning and real-time monitoring of development programs. Nodal officers will be appointed in every department to oversee compliance, and progress will be tracked through a consolidated report submitted to the Chief Secretary’s office.
This initiative marks a significant step in creating a digitally literate bureaucracy capable of harnessing the full potential of AI for citizen-centric governance.
Digital Transformation in Legislature: Delhi Takes Notes from Odisha
Odisha’s digital leadership isn’t limited to its executive branch. The state’s legislative wing is also setting new standards through its implementation of the National e-Vidhan Application (NeVA), making Assembly proceedings paperless and more efficient.
A delegation from the Delhi Government, led by Delhi Assembly Speaker Vijender Gupta, is currently on a three-day study tour in Bhubaneswar to observe Odisha’s digital legislative practices. The delegation includes Deputy Speaker Mohan Singh Bisht and key officials associated with Delhi’s E-Vidhan project.
During their visit, Chief Minister Mohan Majhi showcased Odisha’s innovative digital attendance system, which allows MLAs to mark attendance and access legislative business in real-time through smart dashboards. The digital shift not only reduces paper use but also enhances transparency and accessibility for lawmakers and the public alike.
Sustainable Governance: A Meeting of Tech and Environment
In a separate meeting, Speaker Gupta informed Odisha Governor Hari Babu Kambhampati about Delhi Assembly’s move to become fully solar-powered, with plans to generate 550 kW of electricity and save approximately ₹15 lakh monthly. The Governor, impressed by the initiative, expressed keen interest in replicating a similar model at the Raj Bhavan in Odisha, reinforcing the growing synergy between technological innovation and environmental responsibility.
Conclusion: Odisha Emerges as a Digital Governance Model
From mandatory AI training for senior officials to running a paperless, tech-savvy legislative assembly, Odisha is redefining what governance in the digital age can look like. These initiatives go beyond administrative efficiency—they foster a culture of innovation, transparency, and sustainability in public service.
As other states take notice and seek to learn from Odisha’s model, it becomes clear that the eastern state is no longer just following the digital revolution—it is leading it. In doing so, Odisha is not only preparing its bureaucracy for the future but also inspiring a nationwide shift toward smart, inclusive governance.
(With inputs from agencies)
