Overview
Kerala has become the first Indian state to create a dedicated Artificial Intelligence (AI) portfolio at the cabinet level. The new UDF government announced this major decision. Senior leader PK Kunhalikutty has been given charge of the AI portfolio. The AI department will work under the Industries and Commerce Department. This move shows that Kerala wants to use AI for economic growth, public services, and startup development. Other key portfolios have also been assigned to senior leaders.
Kerala Creates a Dedicated AI Portfolio
In a major cabinet restructuring, the Kerala government has officially introduced a separate Artificial Intelligence department. This is the first time any Indian state has given AI its own cabinet‑level status. According to the official Gazette notification, the AI portfolio is placed under the broader Industries and Commerce Department. It will work alongside:
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Information Technology
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Startups
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Mining and Geology
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Handlooms and Textiles
The portfolio has been assigned to PK Kunhalikutty , a senior leader of the Indian Union Muslim League (IUML).
Why This Move Is Significant
Artificial intelligence is changing many fields. These include public administration, business, manufacturing, education, healthcare, agriculture, and startup innovation. Most Indian states still manage AI under general IT or digital departments. By creating a separate cabinet portfolio, Kerala is showing that it takes AI seriously. It wants to use AI not just for better governance, but also as a tool for economic development.
Why AI Is Placed Under Industries and Commerce
This placement is very strategic. It means the government sees AI as an economic sector, not just a digital tool. Possible focus areas include:
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Growing the startup ecosystem
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Modernising industries
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Expanding the IT sector
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Innovating public services
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Using data analytics for smarter governance
AI can also help deliver citizen services faster and more efficiently.
Other Major Cabinet Portfolio Allocations
The new cabinet has also given important departments to other leaders.
| Leader |
Portfolios |
| Chief Minister VD Satheesan |
Finance, Kerala Financial Corporation, Ports, Law, Pollution Control, Airports, Metro Rail, Railways, Home |
| Ramesh Chennithala |
Home, Vigilance, Fire and Rescue Services, Prisons, Coir, Health Sector |
| K Muraleedharan |
Health, Medical Education, AYUSH, Drugs Control, Devaswoms, Tourism and Culture |
Month: Current Affairs - May 21, 2026
Category: DigitalGovernance