TLDR: HCL GUVI, in partnership with the Uttar Pradesh Rural Development Department, has conducted an intensive AI training program for over 100 field and executive-level officials. This initiative is a direct step towards the state’s AI Pragya vision, aiming to integrate artificial intelligence into public administration and service delivery for enhanced governance.
Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh – In a significant move to digitally empower its grassroots governance, the Rural Development Department of the Government of Uttar Pradesh, in collaboration with HCL GUVI, has successfully concluded an intensive, hands-on Artificial Intelligence (AI) training program. Over 100 field and executive-level officials participated in the program, which directly aligns with the state’s ambitious AI Pragya vision.
The AI Pragya (Artificial Intelligence Programme for Resourcefulness, Awareness, Growth, and Youth Advancement) initiative is Uttar Pradesh’s visionary program designed to embed artificial intelligence into public administration and service delivery, aiming for more transparent and efficient governance. This specific training for rural development officials underscores the state’s commitment to building a digitally adept and future-ready government workforce.
Shri G.S. Priyadarshi (IAS), Commissioner, Rural Development, Government of Uttar Pradesh, emphasized the importance of this training, stating, “This training marks a significant step in our journey to build a digitally adept, future-ready government workforce. It reflects our broader commitment to transparent, efficient governance and resonates with the ambitions of the AI Pragya vision.”
The program was delivered as an 8-hour, mentor-led immersive session, culminating in a certificate of completion for each participant. Arun Prakash M, Founder & CEO, GUVI, highlighted the practical application of the training: “We have moved beyond raising awareness—this program delivered real, hands-on tools that rural officers can apply from day one. We are proud to be part of Uttar Pradesh’s progressive digital journey.”
This initiative is part of a broader push by the Uttar Pradesh government to integrate AI and emerging technologies across various sectors. The state has launched ‘AI-PRAGYA’ with the goal of equipping 10 lakh (1 million) citizens with advanced digital skills in AI, machine learning, data analytics, and cybersecurity by the end of 2025. This comprehensive program involves strategic collaborations with global technology leaders, including Microsoft, Intel, HCL (through GUVI), Amazon, Google, Wadhwani Foundation, and 1M1B.
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Furthermore, the Uttar Pradesh government has also partnered with GUVI and SAWIT (South Asian Women in Tech) to upskill five lakh women in Generative AI (GenAI) skills, aiming to bridge the gender gap in AI and enhance employability. Through such diverse initiatives, HCL GUVI continues to play a leading role in driving tech-enabled capacity building for both government and corporate stakeholders in the region.


