Bhubaneswar: Odisha has taken a significant step towards strengthening its technology and innovation ecosystem with the inauguration of Artificial Intelligence (AI), Robotics and Japan Centre of Excellence in Bhubaneswar. 

The AI, Robotics and Japan Centre of Excellence along with a Japanese SAP Software Global Capability Centre (GCC) were inaugurated at the NITKAL Enterprise Services campus in the capital city on Wednesday.

The new facilities are expected to open a fresh chapter in Odisha's efforts to promote advanced technology, innovation and industry-oriented skill development. The initiative also reflects the state's growing technological capabilities and its increasingly favourable environment for investment in emerging sectors.

With AI, robotics, semiconductors and advanced digital infrastructure emerging as key drivers of the global economy, Odisha is positioning itself as an attractive destination for future-oriented technology investments.

The newly established centres are expected to contribute to the creation of a highly skilled workforce in advanced technologies, promote research and innovation, strengthen industry-academia collaboration and enhance Odisha's capacity to deliver technology-driven services at a global scale.

The initiative could also create new opportunities for the state's youth, particularly through high-skill employment, specialised training and exposure to emerging technologies. By connecting industry requirements with skill development, the centres are expected to help build a talent pool equipped for the evolving global technology landscape.

Under the guidance of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the leadership of Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi, the state government has been focusing on strengthening Odisha's position in technology and innovation. Its AI Policy, Semiconductor Policy and GCC Policy are aimed at unlocking opportunities in emerging technology sectors and attracting investment to the state.

The NITKAL Enterprise Services initiative is expected to further expand opportunities for global technology companies and investors in Odisha. It also aligns with the state's broader ambition to move beyond the traditional 'Make in Odisha' narrative towards an 'Innovate in Odisha' ecosystem.

With greater emphasis on advanced technology, skilled talent, research and global technology services, the new centres could play an important role in Odisha's transition towards a knowledge-driven and technology-based economy.