The Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between Google and the Tamil Nadu government was formally exchanged at Google’s Mountain View office. Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin, Industries Minister TRB Rajaa, and senior Google executives Amit Zaveri and Nanda Ramachandran attended the ceremony. 

This partnership is a significant milestone in positioning Tamil Nadu as a leading hub for Artificial Intelligence (AI) and advanced electronics manufacturing. The collaboration is expected to foster AI-driven innovation, support the growth of AI start-ups, enhance skill development, and strengthen the industrial ecosystem in the state, particularly in the manufacturing sector. This strategic initiative underlines Tamil Nadu's commitment to embracing cutting-edge technology and establishing itself as a key player in the global AI and electronics industry.

Google will collaborate with Guidance, Tamil Nadu’s investment promotion and facilitation agency, to build a robust AI ecosystem. The initiative focuses on providing access to cutting-edge technologies and resources, empowering individuals, businesses, and government entities to leverage AI for inclusive growth and progress.

Industries Minister TRB Rajaa highlighted the partnership's significance, noting the integration of AI in advanced manufacturing, including the "Made in India" Pixel 8 phones being produced in Tamil Nadu. "Our collaboration with Google under the Tamil Nadu AI Labs is a crucial milestone in establishing our state as a thriving hub for AI and advanced electronics manufacturing. We are not just adopting technology; we are harnessing its power to propel our state into the future," Rajaa stated.

Amit Zaveri, GM/VP and Head of Platform of Google Cloud, emphasized the partnership's potential to drive inclusive growth and technological advancement. "We are excited to work together to build a thriving AI ecosystem in Tamil Nadu — one that not only drives innovation and creates opportunities but also empowers individuals with the skills they need to succeed in the digital age," said Zaveri.

The collaboration will focus on several strategic areas, including the ongoing manufacturing of Pixel 8 phones in Tamil Nadu, skill development through AI initiatives under the ‘Naan Mudhalvan’ platform, and support for AI-focused start-ups via mentorship, networking, and Google’s Startups program.

Furthermore, Google and its Cloud partners will work with Tamil Nadu's MSMEs to harness Google Cloud's AI capabilities, facilitating streamlined access, automated processes, enhanced decision-making, and broader technology adoption. This partnership underscores a shared commitment to fostering innovation, economic growth, and digital empowerment in Tamil Nadu.

Source: Tamil Nadu press release - 1328