Gujarat Government to Form AI Task Force for Enhanced Public Welfare Initiatives

Gir Somnath, November 23: Gujarat Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel announced the formation of a high-level task force to maximize the use of artificial intelligence (AI) in public welfare initiatives and administrative reforms. The announcement was made during the concluding session of the state government's three-day 11th Chintan Shivir, held in the presence of Lord Somnath. The Chief Minister also unveiled a digital logo for the Chintan Shivir at the event.

During the final day of the Chintan Shivir, the Chief Minister emphasized the adoption of AI to expand the reach of welfare schemes and ensure 100 percent saturation of beneficiaries. Patel directed senior secretaries, district collectors, and district development officers (DDOs) to integrate AI into sectors such as nutrition, education, health, agriculture, infrastructure, employment, and grievance redressal. The task force will submit its recommendations within a month, focusing on sustainable development through AI and data analytics.

Commitment to Transparent Governance

Patel highlighted the importance of a strong administrative system that instills confidence in honest governance while deterring malicious intent. He underscored the need to follow six principles of Karmyoga to inspire government employees to transform into Karmyogis—professionals driven by integrity and purpose. These principles, he said, are interconnected and can significantly impact an individual's character and performance when implemented.

Focus on Employment, Rural Development, and Tourism

The Chintan Shivir featured group discussions on critical topics, including creating employment opportunities, increasing rural income, ensuring saturation in public services, and enhancing district and local bodies' roles in tourism development. Patel urged district collectors and DDOs to implement three projects based on these recommendations in their respective areas and regularly review their progress. He also stressed balancing development efforts with environmental considerations and ensuring seamless coordination between local and state administration.

Strategic Direction for the State

The Chief Minister noted that Chintan Shivirs are pivotal in addressing administrative challenges through collective brainstorming. He encouraged district administrators to minimize communication gaps between rural and state-level governance while ensuring clarity in procedures to prevent misunderstandings or inefficiencies.

Acknowledgment of Collaborative Efforts

Kamal Dayani, Additional Chief Secretary of the General Administration Department, expressed gratitude to Chief Minister Patel, cabinet members, senior officials, and district-level administrators for their active participation and valuable recommendations during the sessions. He emphasized that improved coordination between government departments and offices at the district level will yield superior outcomes.

Dayani also thanked Principal Secretary Harit Shukla, Gir Somnath Collector, and the district administration for their efforts in organizing the event. The ceremony concluded with the presence of Finance and Energy Minister Kanubhai Desai, Chief Minister’s Principal Chief Advisor Dr. Hasmukh Adhia, Chief Secretary Raj Kumar, and senior officials from the state government.

This Chintan Shivir underscores Gujarat’s commitment to leveraging technology for transparent and efficient governance, aiming to make the state a leader in technology-driven public welfare.