Govt bodies sign MoU with Google, Meta, IBM to foster innovation in India

Government bodies have signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with Google, Facebook-owner Meta and IBM to foster innovation and investment in the country. Minister of state for Electronics and IT Rajeev Chandrasekhar said that the government recognizes the potential of emerging technologies and is actively working with the private sector to foster innovation. These pacts aim to enhance India’s standing and talent in the technology sector.

"To foster innovation and investment, ministry has signed memorandum of understanding (MoUs) with various global Indian technology and research names. These agreements aim to enhance India's standing and talent in the emerging technology domain," the minister said in a written reply to Rajya Sabha.

The minister mentioned that MoUs were signed between IBM India and three entities engaged with the ministry of electronics and information technology (MeitY) in October 2023 to advance and accelerate innovation in AI, semiconductor, and quantum technology for India.

He said that a MoU was signed between Google India and Digital India Bhashini Division (DIBD) which outlines a strategic partnership to advance artificial intelligence (AI) technology and promote language inclusivity in India in September 2023.

In July 2023, India AI and Meta signed an MoU to establish a framework in AI and emerging Technologies, while in September 2022, MeitY Startup Hub (MSH) and Meta collaborated to accelerate XR technology startups in India, he said.