India has begun seeing states create dedicated government structures for artificial intelligence, with Kerala and Tamil Nadu setting up separate AI departments at the cabinet level.

Kerala became the first state to create a dedicated AI portfolio after the formation of the new United Democratic Front (UDF) government, while Tamil Nadu followed with a similar move during its latest cabinet portfolio allocation.

The development marks a change in how state governments are organising administrative responsibilities around emerging technologies.

Kerala introduces AI portfolio in cabinet reshuffle

The Kerala government created a separate Artificial Intelligence portfolio as part of a wider reshuffle of ministerial responsibilities after the new UDF government took office.

According to a state Gazette order issued on Wednesday, the AI portfolio was placed under the Industries and Commerce department alongside Information Technology and related sectors.

Senior Indian Union Muslim League (IUML) leader PK Kunhalikutty was assigned charge of Industries and Commerce, Information Technology and the newly created Artificial Intelligence portfolio. His responsibilities also include start-ups, mining and geology, handlooms and textiles.

The move introduced AI as a separate subject at cabinet level within the state's governance structure.

Tamil Nadu follows with dedicated AI department

Tamil Nadu also introduced a dedicated Artificial Intelligence department as part of cabinet portfolio allocation announced on Thursday.

Among the 23 newly inducted ministers, portfolios were assigned after some changes by Chief Minister C Joseph Vijay. The Poverty Alleviation department was retained by the chief minister, while the Women Welfare portfolio was moved to newly inducted minister K Jegadeshwari.

The newly formed AI department was one of the major features of the allocation exercise. TVK's R Kumar was given charge of the Artificial Intelligence and Information Technology departments.

With the move, Tamil Nadu joined Kerala among the states with a dedicated AI ministry structure.