Odisha Gets AI, Robotics and Japan Centre of Excellence in Bhubaneswar

Bhubaneswar: Odisha has strengthened its push towards emerging technologies with the inauguration of an Artificial Intelligence (AI), Robotics and Japan Centre of Excellence in Bhubaneswar, along with a Japanese SAP Software Global Capability Centre (GCC).

The facilities, established at the NITKAL Enterprise Services campus, are aimed at supporting advanced technology adoption, industry-oriented skill development and innovation in the state.

The new centres are expected to play a role in developing a skilled workforce in emerging technologies while creating stronger links between industry, academia and research institutions. They are also likely to provide Odisha’s youth with opportunities for specialised training, high-skill employment and exposure to global technology practices.

The initiative comes as Odisha seeks to expand its presence in technology-driven sectors such as AI, robotics, semiconductors, advanced digital infrastructure and global capability centres. The state government has been promoting policies focused on attracting investments in these emerging areas and creating an ecosystem that supports technology-led growth.

The AI and Robotics Centre of Excellence is expected to facilitate capacity building, innovation and research in advanced technologies. The Japan-focused component, meanwhile, is expected to strengthen technological and institutional linkages with Japanese industry and create opportunities for collaboration.

The Japanese SAP Software GCC is also expected to contribute to the growth of Odisha’s global technology services ecosystem by supporting specialised digital capabilities and creating employment opportunities in high-value technology services.

The state government has been positioning Bhubaneswar and other parts of Odisha as emerging destinations for technology investments. Its AI Policy, Semiconductor Policy and GCC Policy are aimed at encouraging investment, innovation and employment in future-oriented sectors.

The establishment of the new centres is also expected to complement Odisha’s efforts to build a talent pool aligned with changing industry requirements. Greater collaboration between technology companies, educational institutions and skill-development initiatives could help young professionals gain expertise in areas with growing global demand.

The initiative further reflects the state’s broader ambition to move beyond traditional industrial investment and develop a knowledge- and innovation-driven economy.

With increasing emphasis on AI, robotics, advanced manufacturing and global technology services, the newly inaugurated facilities are expected to contribute to Odisha’s efforts to emerge as a competitive hub for technology, innovation and high-skilled employment.