Odisha's Chief Minister Unveils AI Labs in ITIs to Boost Skill Development

Odisha's Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi has announced the establishment of artificial intelligence laboratories in nine Industrial Training Institutes (ITIs) to enhance skill development. During the Odisha Skill Competition 2025-26, he emphasized the importance of skills for economic growth and urged students to prepare for job opportunities in the state. With plans to develop 47 ITIs as centers of excellence, the initiative aims to create a skilled workforce to support Odisha's industrialization goals. The CM also highlighted recent projects worth ₹6.15 lakh crore that could generate 2.64 lakh jobs, reinforcing the state's commitment to a prosperous future.

By Narendra Chaudhary Jan 9, 2026, 21:07 IST

AI Initiatives in Odisha's ITIs

Bhubaneswar: On Friday, Odisha's Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi announced the establishment of artificial intelligence (AI) laboratories across nine Industrial Training Institutes (ITIs) in the state.

During the closing ceremony of the Odisha Skill Competition 2025-26, CM Majhi revealed plans to transform a total of 47 ITIs into centers of excellence.

He emphasized that Odisha is entering a phase of significant industrial growth and urged students to enhance their skills to secure job opportunities within the state.

CM Majhi stated, "Our aim is to achieve excellence at all levels," as he awarded gold medals to 54 students, silver medals to 53, and bronze medals to 50 for their outstanding performances in the competition.

Gold medalists received a cash prize of ₹25,000, while silver and bronze medalists were awarded ₹20,000 and ₹15,000, respectively.

He highlighted the importance of skills for sustainable development and economic advancement, asserting that skilled individuals are more confident. The state aspires to cultivate skilled youth to fulfill its vision of a prosperous Odisha by 2036 and a developed India by 2047.

CM Majhi outlined that the three foundational pillars of the state's industrialization are robust infrastructure, a supportive environment, and a skilled workforce.

He also mentioned that in the past 18 months, projects worth ₹6.15 lakh crore have been sanctioned, which are expected to generate approximately 2.64 lakh jobs.