MoU for establishment of AI Centre of Excellence in Sikkim

GANGTOK,: The Department of Information Technology (DIT) and National Institute of Electronics and Information Technology (NIELIT), Gangtok, have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) for collaboration towards the establishment and operational support of an Artificial Intelligence Centre of Excellence (AI-CoE) in the State under the IndiaAI Mission of the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY).

The proposed AI-CoE aims to promote AI-driven innovation, capacity building, skilling, training, and ecosystem development in Sikkim, with a focus on creating opportunities for students, professionals, start-ups, government officials, and other stakeholders, informs a press release.

Under the collaboration, NIELIT Gangtok will extend its expertise in emerging technologies such as Artificial Intelligence, Machine Learning, Data Science, and related domains, with primary emphasis on structured capacity-building and skilling initiatives aligned with national frameworks and industry requirements.

The partnership also envisages phased collaboration in identified areas of the AI-CoE based on mutual discussions and evolving requirements, enabling the creation of a robust AI innovation and skilling ecosystem in the State.

Speaking on the occasion, Department of IT director Prem Vijay Basnet stated that the initiative reflects the State government’s commitment to leveraging emerging technologies for inclusive growth, digital transformation, and future-ready workforce development.

NIELIT Gangtok director Khagendra Sharma expressed enthusiasm over partnering with the Government of Sikkim for the initiative and reiterated the institute’s commitment to supporting the State in positioning itself as a leading hub for AI innovation and skilling in the region.

The collaboration is expected to pave the way for enhanced research, innovation, skill development, and adoption of AI technologies across sectors in Sikkim, while contributing to the broader vision of Digital India and the IndiaAI Mission, the release mentions.