Kerala is set to showcase its burgeoning prowess in artificial intelligence with the upcoming International Generative AI Conclave, scheduled for July 11 and 12. Jointly organized by the Kerala State Industrial Development Corporation (KSIDC) and IBM, this landmark event will be held at the Lulu Grand Hyatt International Convention Center in Kochi.
Kerala is rapidly establishing itself as a significant hub for artificial intelligence in India. The state’s commitment to AI is underscored by its inclusion as a priority area in the Industrial Policy 2023, with a focus on fostering growth and attracting investment in this cutting-edge sector.
Industry Minister P. Rajeev highlighted Kerala’s strategic advantage, stating, “As the world rides the AI wave, Kerala is positioned as the ideal destination for diverse AI activities. We aim to make Kerala a major hub for AI, and the Gen AI Conclave is a critical step towards achieving this vision.”
The conclave will bring together a diverse group of stakeholders, including the Chief Minister, state ministers, IBM executives, industry and technology leaders, policy makers, and innovators. They will discuss the future of AI and share insights on how Kerala can leverage its strengths in this transformative field.
In the lead-up to the conclave, a virtual hackathon, the ‘IBM WatsonX Challenge,’ has been organized for startups by the Kerala Startup Mission. This competition encourages innovative solutions using IBM’s WatsonX products, with the best team earning the opportunity to present their ideas at the conclave.
Kerala’s AI ecosystem is attracting global players, with companies like Saffron, Attaché, IBM, and D Space already investing in the state. The region’s robust IT infrastructure, combined with a highly skilled workforce, positions it as an attractive destination for AI-focused investments and operations.
The state’s favorable environment for AI and technology development has been recognized internationally. The Global Startup Ecosystem Report (GSER) recently rated Kerala’s startup ecosystem as the best in the world, a distinction that is expected to be further enhanced by advancements in AI and machine learning.
Currently, around 300 AI startups operate in Kerala, and this number is set to grow as the state continues to foster innovation and efficiency in the sector. A comprehensive study by KSIDC ahead of the conclave suggests that embracing AI’s potential will provide better opportunities for businesses and startups, ensuring improved services and operational accuracy.
Minister Rajeev emphasized the state’s long-term vision: “In the next fifteen years, Kerala will become a hub for high-tech manufacturers. Hosting the country’s first AI conclave in Kochi marks a significant milestone as we demonstrate our excellence in AI development and integration.”
