Artificial Intelligence (AI) is rapidly transforming industries, businesses, education, healthcare and the lives of ordinary people. With AI impacting every sector, it is natural to raise the question whether the government should appoint special ministers and create separate ministries for it. A new beginning is being made in this direction in India. Kerala was the first state to assign special responsibility for AI in its cabinet, after which Tamil Nadu also did the same. Now, several other states are taking a closer look at this model, sparking a debate over whether there is really a need for a dedicated AI minister or whether it is just a cosmetic move.
**Kerala took the initiative**
According to media reports, on May 20, 2026, Kerala became the first state in India to give special importance to AI at the cabinet level. Senior leader P.K. Kunhalikutty was given the responsibility of Industry, Commerce, IT, AI, Startup, Mining and Geology and Textiles departments. This decision clearly shows that the state government views AI not just as a technical subject, but as an important part of economic development and future strategy.
**Tamil Nadu also created a special AI department**
Following the lead of Kerala, the Tamil Nadu government has also created a separate department for AI. The government led by Chief Minister C. Joseph Vijay has appointed MLA R. Kumar has been given the charge of AI, Information Technology and Digital Services. Interestingly, the party had promised to create an AI Ministry, AI University and AI City in its election manifesto. The state government is now working to implement these schemes at the grassroots level. The government is considering setting up ‘Centres of Excellence’ for AI in sectors like healthcare, agriculture, manufacturing, language technology and climate science. Additionally, efforts are also being made to promote AI-based administrative services, skill development centers and digital governance.
**A unique perspective of Karnataka**
While some states are creating separate ministries for AI, Karnataka has taken a comprehensive approach to the technology. Minister of State Priyank Kharge believes that creating a dedicated technology ministry is a more practical option instead of creating a separate ministry specifically for AI. According to him, technology is constantly evolving; If AI is replaced by some other technology in the future, it will not be practical to reorganize ministries again and again. Karnataka’s position is already strong in terms of AI talent and research. The state has large engineering and research capabilities, deep-tech funding and a dedicated AI-ML cell to review AI projects. Additionally, a special committee has also been formed to ensure responsible and ethical use of AI.
**Maharashtra’s AI-centric expansion**
Maharashtra has approved the establishment of the Department of Electronics, Information Technology and Artificial Intelligence. Also, the process of converting IT Directorate into AI Commissionerate has also been started. The state has also announced an AI policy dedicated to creating AI infrastructure, increasing employment opportunities and developing technical skills. The policy proposes to set up AI Centers of Excellence, AI Innovation Cities and modern computing facilities.
**Is AI minister just for show?**
Opinion of technical experts is divided on this matter. Former Infosys CFO and investor Mohandas Pai argues that merely creating ministries will not bring about any major change; For this, adequate budget, investment and policies promoting innovation are also necessary. Meanwhile, Umakant Soni believes that although the right policies are important to promote the AI industry, the biggest challenge is to find experts who deeply understand this technology. If policy-makers do not understand the technology properly, they may inadvertently hinder the pace of development.
**What’s happening around the world?**
In India, national responsibilities related to AI are currently held by the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology, which is headed by Ashwini Vaishnav. The central government is prioritizing AI, implementing initiatives like the ‘IndiaAI Mission’ with support worth thousands of crores of rupees, and focusing on developing indigenous AI infrastructure tailored to Indian languages and local needs. Many countries around the world have also strengthened their AI governance frameworks. The United Arab Emirates appointed the world’s first AI minister in 2017, with Omar Sultan Al Olama assuming the role. The United Kingdom, Canada, and France have also developed specific areas and frameworks for AI governance.
