IBM signs MoUs with MeitY to boost innovation in AI, semiconductors, and quantum technology
IBM has officially inked Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) with three key entities linked to the Indian Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY). These strategic partnerships aim to fast-track innovation in the domains of Artificial Intelligence (AI), Semiconductors, and Quantum Technology in India, while also supporting the nation’s ambitious goals for self-reliance and progress in these sectors.
Based on reports from PIB, these MoUs, established in just four months following a joint declaration between India and the United States, reinforce the commitment to leveraging IBM’s expertise and resources for advancing India’s competency and growth in AI, Semiconductors and Quantum technology.
With inputs from PIB, the key focus areas of these collaborations are as follows:
1. IBM and IndiaAI
IBM, in collaboration with Digital India Corporation’s IndiaAI, will spearhead the establishment of a world-class National AI Innovation Platform (AIIP). This platform will have a dedicated focus on AI skill development, ecosystem enhancement, and the integration of advanced foundation models and generative AI capabilities. The goal is to support India’s scientific, commercial, and human-capital development in the realm of AI. AIIP is poised to act as an accelerator for incubation and competency development in AI technologies, applying them to use cases of national significance. It will also gain access to IBM’s WatsonX platform, enabling the utilisation of models in language, code, and geospatial science, with plans to expand to other domains.
2. IBM as a knowledge partner for India Semiconductor Mission (ISM)
IBM will collaborate with the India Semiconductor Mission (ISM) as a knowledge partner, aiming to establish a semiconductor research center. In this partnership, IBM will share its extensive experience in intellectual property, tools, initiatives, and skills development to promote innovation in semiconductor technologies, including logic, advanced packaging, heterogeneous integration, and advanced chip design. This collaboration will involve the use of modernized infrastructure for research and development.
3. IBM and Centre for Development of Advanced Computing (C-DAC)
IBM will explore opportunities for an alliance with the Centre for Development of Advanced Computing (C-DAC) to support India’s National Quantum Mission. Their collective efforts will revolve around building competency in quantum computing technology and applications of national interest. This partnership will also aim to develop a skilled workforce in the field of quantum computing, foster development industries and startups, conduct research and development activities, and establish quantum services and infrastructure.
In response to these pivotal developments, Union Minister of State for Skill Development & Entrepreneurship and Electronics & IT, Shri Rajeev Chandrasekhar, expressed his optimism, stating, “Semiconductors, AI, and Quantum, these three technologies will transform the future in the coming years. They represent tremendous opportunities for our academic institutions, startups, and the innovation ecosystem.” He also commended the speed at which these MoUs were established, aligning with Prime Minister Modi’s vision.
Shri Sandip Patel, Managing Director of IBM India & South Asia, emphasized IBM’s commitment to being a trusted partner for India in enhancing its innovation capabilities. He underscored the importance of supporting the government’s efforts in building infrastructure, enhancing human capital, and fostering knowledge creation in these vital technological areas to drive India’s digital transformation and economic growth.
These strategic initiatives between IBM and the Indian government entities are poised to drive skill development, engage innovation ecosystems, and accelerate research and development efforts in the fields of semiconductors, AI, and quantum technology.
These endeavours reflect India’s determination to push the boundaries of innovation and establish a global standard talent pool capable of harnessing the potential of quantum computing, AI, and semiconductors for future growth.
