Bhubaneswar, Apr 15 (UNI) Odisha Chief Secretary Manoj Ahuja has requested all departments to issue necessary instructions to the officers under their control to mandatorily enroll in and complete at least one foundational course on Artificial Intelligence (AI).
These courses are available free of cost on reputed platforms and are designed to offer both conceptual clarity and practical application. Ahuja also recommended some platforms for officers to take the training.
In a letter addressed to all Additional Chief Secretaries, Principal Secretaries, Commissioner-cum-Secretaries of Government, and all District Collectors, on Tuesday, he emphasized the importance of learning Artificial Intelligence (AI).
The Chief Secretary stated that this initiative aligns with the State Government’s broader goal of fostering a digitally proficient, future-ready administrative workforce. He noted that it is increasingly evident that new innovations such as AI will play a pivotal role in shaping the future of governance. AI has the potential to bring transformative changes in how the government functions—from making it easier for citizens to interface with the government, to enabling predictive analysis, intelligent grievance redressal systems, planning, and monitoring.
The CS further emphasized that it is imperative for officers in the state administration to build a working knowledge of the principles, tools, and applications of AI. Understanding these technologies is essential not only for informed decision-making but also for designing citizen-centric policies, managing large-scale data systems, and enhancing administrative responsiveness.
Ahuja has instructed that officers complete these courses within a period of three (3) months from the date of issue of this communication. Departments have been advised to designate a Nodal Officer to oversee implementation, facilitate enrollment, and ensure timely compliance.
A consolidated report indicating the number of officers who have completed such courses is to be submitted to the Office of the Chief Secretary within the stipulated period, the letter stated.
The Chief Secretary also sought the active cooperation of all Secretaries and Collectors to ensure the success of this important initiative.
UNI DP CS
