IIT Madras has announced the launch of a new capacity-building programme aimed at training Indian government officials in responsible artificial intelligence. The initiative has been introduced by the Centre for Responsible AI (CeRAI) at the Wadhwani School of Data Science and Artificial Intelligence. The programme focuses on building skills related to designing, procuring, and scaling AI systems within public institutions.
The announcement was made during the Conclave on Strengthening Human Capital for the AI Era, held at IIT Madras on Friday. The programme reflects the growing importance of AI adoption in governance and public service delivery across India.
IIT Madras Responsible AI Programme Partners and Objectives
The programme has been developed in partnership with Google and the Digital Futures Lab (DFL), an independent and interdisciplinary research studio. These collaborations aim to combine academic research, industry expertise, and policy-oriented insights.
The primary objective of the initiative is to equip government officials with technical, operational, and governance skills required to deploy AI responsibly. With artificial intelligence increasingly shaping areas such as education, digital governance, and citizen services, the programme seeks to strengthen institutional readiness and informed decision-making.
The initiative also addresses the need for enhanced AI literacy and awareness within government departments, ensuring that technology adoption aligns with public interest and national priorities.
Curriculum Focus of IIT Madras AI Capacity-Building Programme
The curriculum has been designed to provide a structured understanding of foundational AI technologies and their practical applications in governance. It will help officials assess AI solutions during procurement and evaluate their scalability across departments.
A key emphasis of the programme is the adoption of responsible AI practices aligned with India’s policy frameworks. Participants will learn to identify risks, limitations, and governance requirements associated with real-world AI deployments. Ethical considerations, accountability mechanisms, and transparency will form an integral part of the learning modules.
The programme also aims to strengthen officials’ ability to make informed choices while integrating AI into public systems.
Training Methods and Learning Outcomes for Government Officials
The training will include case studies, interactive workshops, and hands-on sessions to ensure practical learning. Through these modules, participants will assess their departments’ existing AI readiness and identify areas where AI-based tools can be adopted or improved.
Officials will also explore pathways for scaling AI solutions while maintaining compliance with regulatory and ethical standards. The hands-on approach is expected to help bridge the gap between policy intent and on-ground implementation.
By the end of the programme, participants are expected to gain clarity on responsible AI deployment, procurement strategies, and long-term governance models.
Significance of the CeRAI Initiative at IIT Madras
The launch of this programme highlights IIT Madras’ role in supporting India’s digital transformation through responsible innovation. CeRAI’s initiative is expected to contribute to stronger institutional capacity as AI continues to influence governance structures.
By focusing on human capital development, the programme aims to ensure that AI adoption in government remains ethical, inclusive, and aligned with national development goals.
