Lucknow: UP is stepping up efforts to position itself as an artificial intelligence (AI) hub, with the state advancing plans for two Deep Tech Hubs and an AI City in Lucknow, while seeking stronger collaboration with industry and academia to build a future-ready workforce.The roadmap was outlined at the CII UP AI Tech Summit 2026, organised by the Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) in association with the state’s IT and electronics department on Wednesday.IT and electronics minister, Sunil Kumar Sharma said, “AI presents a tremendous opportunity to transform governance, businesses, education, healthcare, agriculture and manufacturing. UP is committed to building a robust AI ecosystem through innovation, digital infrastructure, startup support and a future-ready workforce”.Principal secretary, IT and electronics, Alok Kumar said UP was establishing two Deep Tech Hubs and pursuing its vision of developing Lucknow as an AI City.CEO and managing director of ADROSONIC, Mayank said UP was emerging as a preferred destination for advanced manufacturing and technology-led innovation, backed by progressive policies and robust infrastructure. He urged industries to adopt AI and Industry 4.0 technologies while investing in workforce upskilling.Global SVP and chief corporate affairs and public policy officer at InMobi, Subi Chaturvedi said UP had the potential to become a leading AI hub, with Lucknow playing a pivotal role in nurturing the next generation of technology leaders. She said an AI-first future would rest on five pillars — compute, data, talent, applications and trust.Head-zonal operations (NGM), Tata Consultancy Services, Ajai Kumar Singh said UP was steadily emerging as India’s AI powerhouse, driven by supportive govt policies, a growing startup ecosystem and industry participation. He said the proposed AI City could position the state as a leading destination for AI-driven innovation and talent.
