Big news: Lucknow set to pioneer India's first AI city as UP govt calls for project bids

Uttar Pradesh is about to do something really cool – they're building the first-ever artificial intelligence (AI) city in Lucknow! It's like creating a super-smart city focused on the latest and coolest technology. Uttar Pradesh is not just keeping up; they're taking the lead in the world of artificial intelligence, making way for a high-tech city full of futuristic ideas and inventions!

Fostering AI ecosystem

Lucknow, already home to Centres of Excellence in fields like artificial intelligence and MedTech, is geared to propel its AI ecosystem. The existing AI Centre of Excellence, nestled in IIIT Lucknow, supports over 15 AI and machine learning start-ups, fostering a culture of innovation and entrepreneurship.

Development plans

The UP Electronics Corporation is spearheading the project as the nodal agency and is actively seeking a real estate developer to bring the AI city to life. The proposed city will boast advanced technology, research facilities, and educational institutions, with a primary focus on nurturing innovative ideas and cultivating future professionals.

Real estate development

The chosen real estate developer will be responsible for creating plug-and-play infrastructure and Grade A office spaces for incubators, start-ups, and corporations. The government, in support, is offering 40 acres in the Nadarganj Industrial Area for the project, free from encumbrances and with all necessary clearances in place.

Financial incentives, as outlined in the Expression of Interest (EoI) document, include a substantial one-time Capex support of up to Rs 20 crore for an IT Park and Rs 100 crore for an IT City. Additionally, developers will enjoy a complete exemption from stamp duty in line with the IT and ITeS Policy of 2022.

AI city features

The AI city is envisioned to be a harmonious blend of high-end and budget-friendly residential buildings, promoting a walk-to-work lifestyle. Special provisions will be made for premier engineering and management institutions to encourage collaboration between academia and industry. The city will also implement AI-powered internal transportation systems.

State's economic vision

Uttar Pradesh, with aspirations to become a $1 trillion economy in the next five years, has identified IT and ITeS (Information Technology Enabled Services) as core sectors to drive economic growth. The state is already the sixth-largest in terms of the IT ecosystem, and with major IT corporations like HCL and TCS already having a significant presence in Lucknow, the city is poised to become a key technology hub.

The state's commitment to leveraging AI as a primary growth stimulator for the IT and ITeS sectors aligns with the global recognition of AI's potential, and Lucknow, with its vibrant tech ecosystem, is well on its way to becoming a landmark in the world of artificial intelligence.