Telangana CM Calls for National AI Strategy, Dedicated Ministry
New Delhi – Telangana Chief Minister A. Revanth Reddy has advocated for a comprehensive national strategy for Artificial Intelligence (AI), including the establishment of a dedicated Union Ministry for AI and a national “AI war room” to monitor rapid developments in the sector. Reddy outlined his vision at the India AI Impact Summit 2026 in Delhi on February 21, 2026, emphasizing the necessitate for India to not only consume AI technology but also to become a global producer of cutting-edge innovation.
Key Proposals for a National AI Ecosystem
Reddy presented five key proposals to propel India’s AI capabilities:
- National AI War Room: A collaborative hub involving the Union government and state governments to track AI advancements in real-time. Hyderabad is proposed as a potential location for this war room.
- Apex AI Council: An overarching body, modeled after the GST Council or NITI Aayog, to coordinate AI policy and strategy across India.
- Dedicated AI Ministry: A central ministry focused on framing laws to prevent the misuse of AI and safeguard national security. Hindustan Times reported on this proposal.
- AI Startup Hub in Hyderabad: A national hub for AI startups, supported by Union government funding, to foster innovation and entrepreneurship.
- World-Class AI University: An AI-focused university with campuses across India, concentrating on integrating the country into the global AI supply chain, including securing rare minerals.
Addressing Job Displacement and Skill Development
Recognizing the potential for AI-driven job losses, Reddy stressed the urgent need for a national assessment of the impact of automation. He called for substantial investment in reskilling and upskilling programs to support workers displaced by AI and ensure a smooth transition to new employment opportunities. “India cannot delay this any more,” Reddy stated, according to The New Indian Express.
Telangana’s Role in the AI Revolution
Reddy positioned Telangana as a frontrunner in India’s AI journey, highlighting the state’s potential to host the proposed AI Startup Village and contribute significantly to research and development. He envisions Hyderabad as a key center for AI innovation and a catalyst for economic growth.
Political Context and Reactions
The summit was not without political undertones. Protests by youth Congress members created a disruption, whereas opposition leaders, including KTR from the BRS party, criticized the protests as “petty theatrics,” according to reports.
India’s AI Ambitions
Reddy described AI as “mankind’s greatest invention,” comparing its impact to pivotal moments in history like the discovery of fire and the Industrial Revolution. He urged India to strive for dominance across all layers of the AI ecosystem, from semiconductor manufacturing to application development. The India AI Impact Summit 2026, organized by the Union government and IT Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw, served as a platform for these discussions.