To achieve the goal of a developed Maharashtra, the state cabinet has approved the creation of an Electronics, Information Technology, and Artificial Intelligence Department.
The decision was taken in a meeting chaired by Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis.
With this, a new IT cadre will be created, consisting of permanent posts for ministerial departments, commissioner offices, and all districts.
The department will be created by separating the IT Department from the General Administration Department. Additionally, the Directorate of Information Technology will be replaced by a new Electronics, Information Technology, and Artificial Intelligence Commissionerate. This commissionerate will have 77 posts.
A separate IT cadre of 427 posts will be created to handle IT-related work in ministries, other administrative departments, and collector offices. Similarly, recruitment for 389 technical cadre positions will be conducted through an external mechanism for project management and monitoring and control of implemented projects. A Maharashtra e-Mission Team (MEMT) will be formed for this recruitment. Additionally, an internship program will be implemented for 200 engineering degree students to develop the necessary manpower for this department.
Providing more government services to the state's citizens in an online format, effectively implementing various state government schemes and programs, increasing administrative efficiency through e-governance, and utilizing advances in research, technology, and innovation in the state in an integrated and coordinated manner will accelerate policy formulation and implementation, effectively addressing the state's development needs, administrative challenges, and technology-based interventions.
The creation of a separate department will enable digital services, data-based decision-making, cybersecurity, and the planned use of new technologies. Furthermore, this decision will help streamline administration at various levels by integrating traditional knowledge and modern technology in sustainable agriculture, healthcare, renewable energy, indigenous production, and other critical sectors.
The annual expenditure of approximately INR 133.35 crore required for creating posts in this department was also approved in the cabinet meeting.