New Delhi – Telangana Chief Minister A. Revanth Reddy has unveiled a sweeping vision for India’s artificial intelligence future, calling for a national AI council, a dedicated ministry, and a real-time “AI war room” to monitor rapid advancements in the sector. The proposals, outlined during the India AI Impact Summit 2026 on February 20, 2026, signal a push for India to not merely consume AI technology, but to become a global leader in its development and application.
Reddy’s plan centers on proactive coordination and investment. He proposed the establishment of an Apex AI Council, modeled after existing bodies like the GST Council or NITI Aayog, to streamline AI policy across the nation. Crucially, he advocated for a dedicated AI ministry at both the central and state levels to address the legal and security implications of the technology. The proposed “AI war room,” ideally located in Hyderabad, would serve as a central hub for tracking global AI developments and responding swiftly to emerging innovations, according to Reddy.
Addressing concerns about the potential for job displacement due to automation, Reddy emphasized the need for a nationwide assessment of AI’s impact on the workforce. He called for substantial investment in reskilling programs to equip workers with the skills needed to thrive in an AI-driven economy. “India cannot delay this any more,” Reddy stated, highlighting the urgency of preparing for the future of work. He also proposed a National AI Fund to support startups and encourage youth-led innovation in the field.
Hyderabad as an AI Hub
Telangana is positioning itself at the forefront of this AI revolution. Reddy highlighted the state’s potential to host an AI Startup Village, a national hub for young innovators, with financial backing from the central government. He also called for the creation of a world-class AI university in Hyderabad, focused on research and collaboration with international institutions. This university would aim to integrate India into the global AI supply chain, including securing access to rare minerals essential for AI development.
The summit, held at Bharat Mandapam, also saw Reddy advocate for India to dominate all layers of the AI ecosystem – from the foundational semiconductor and data infrastructure to the final applications. He suggested hosting semi-annual AI summits to foster collaboration and knowledge sharing.
Political Undercurrents at the Summit
The event wasn’t without its internal political friction. Youth Congress members staged a protest during the summit, reportedly highlighting rifts within the party even as their leader championed the cause of AI development. Opposition voices, including K.T. Rama Rao (KTR) of the Bharat Rashtra Samithi (BRS), criticized the protests as “petty theatrics,” suggesting they exposed inconsistencies within the Congress party, according to The Hans India.
Reddy’s vision extends beyond technological advancement, aiming to leverage AI for social justice, poverty reduction, and broader economic growth. He presented a future where AI is not just a driver of innovation, but a tool for inclusive development.
As India embarks on its AI mission, the proposals put forth by Chief Minister Reddy represent a significant step towards establishing a national strategy. The coming months will be crucial in determining whether these ambitious plans translate into concrete action and whether Telangana can solidify its position as a leading AI hub. The establishment of the proposed AI council and ministry, and the allocation of funding for startups and reskilling initiatives, will be key indicators of progress.
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