The Uttar Pradesh government has announced a major partnership with Nasscom, India’s tech industry body, to boost new‑age technology skills and support its ambition of transforming Lucknow into the country’s first “AI City.” This collaboration was formalized through a Memorandum of Understanding between the state’s IT and Electronics Department and Nasscom officials.

Under the pact, the focus will be on developing advanced skills in emerging technologies like artificial intelligence (AI), virtual reality (VR), robotics process automation (RPA), the Internet of Things (IoT), cloud computing, big data, and 3D printing — all seen as crucial for future tech growth.

As part of the initiative, Nasscom will provide original equipment manufacturer (OEM) certifications to 2,500 participants, extend 2,000 internship opportunities for students, and issue 10,000 free assessment vouchers to learners across the state.

Officials say this approach aims to build a skilled, industry‑ready workforce capable of meeting the demands of India’s rapidly evolving technology sector, particularly in areas linked to AI innovation and digital transformation.

The partnership also signals Uttar Pradesh’s intent to be at the forefront of tech‑led economic development, leveraging educational partnerships and industry support to empower local talent.

Experts note that creating a concentrated tech ecosystem through initiatives like this could attract more investments, startups, and tech companies to the region, further strengthening its competitive edge.

By integrating industry certifications and internship pathways into state‑level strategy, the program aims to reduce the skills gap that many Indian tech employers identify as a key challenge in recruitment.

This initiative reflects a growing trend in India where state governments collaborate directly with tech bodies to build future‑ready talent and advance innovation, especially in AI and related fields.