CHENNAI: The Tamil Nadu government on Saturday signed an MoU with Google to drive technological development and foster innovation by focusing on initiatives in key areas such as artificial intelligence (AI) start-up enablement, and skilling and industrial ecosystem enablement to create impactful and scalable AI solutions.
The MoU was signed in Google’s Mountain View office in California in the presence of Chief Minister MK Stalin, who is on a two-week visit to the US to attract investments. Minister for Industries TRB Rajaa, who was also present, said the MoU will explore key AI initiatives under the Tamil Nadu AI Labs.
“Our partnership with Google is a significant step forward towards establishing Tamil Nadu as a thriving AI and advanced electronics manufacturing hub,” he said. Pointing to the state’s flagship “Naan Mudhalvan” initiative to train youngsters, the minister said the state is committed to equipping 20 lakh youth with cutting-edge AI skills to prepare them for the future. “We look forward to exploring initiatives with Google under this programme,” he added.
Amit Zavery, Head of Platform of Google Cloud, said, “We look forward to working together to build a thriving AI ecosystem in Tamil Nadu — one that not only drives innovation and creates opportunities but also empowers individuals with the skills they need to succeed in the digital age”.
Discussed exciting tie-ups with Apple, Google, says CM Stalin
A statement by Google said it will work with Guidance Tamil Nadu to support the development of a robust AI ecosystem, which will include providing access to advanced technologies and resources, with an emphasis on empowering individuals, businesses, and government entities to leverage AI for inclusive growth and progress.
Delegates from Tamil Nadu also discussed expanding the manufacturing of Pixel 8 phones and other Google products in the state. The release by Google said the company and Tamil Nadu government are exploring collaborations under the key pillars of manufacturing of Pixel 8 phones, skill development and education, startups and innovation and enabling MSMEs and rural economy. The CM also visited the offices of Apple and Microsoft.
At Microsoft, the delegation met Ryan Roslansky, CEO of LinkedIn, and the senior leadership team. The discussions explored several key opportunities, including the expansion of data centre infrastructure in Tamil Nadu and the establishment of a Global Capability Centre.
“An awe-inspiring visit to the offices of Apple, Google and Microsoft. Discussed various opportunities and exciting partnerships. Determined to strengthen these partnerships and make Tamil Nadu one of the foremost growth engines of Asia!,” the CM said in a post on X.
On Friday, Stalin participated in an investors conclave organised at San Francisco, during which MoUs worth Rs 900 crore were signed with six companies.