Uttar Pradesh is set to launch India's inaugural AI city in Lucknow, spread across 40-acres in the Nadarganj Industrial Area. An Expression of Interest has been extended to real estate developers, promising financial incentives like Capex support and stamp duty exemption. The AI city aims to integrate advanced technology, research centres, and educational institutions, fostering an ecosystem conducive to AI and MedTech. The plan envisions plug-and-play infrastructure, premium Grade- A office spaces, a mix of housing options, and AI-driven internal transport, aligning with a walk-to-work model and dedicated spaces for academic collaboration.
Uttar Pradesh, India's largest state, is spearheading the creation of the country's first AI city in Lucknow, signalling a progressive move towards leveraging artificial intelligence (AI) for comprehensive development. Lucknow, already hosting Centres of Excellence in AI and MedTech, particularly within IIIT Lucknow, fosters over 15 AI/ML start-ups, cultivating a vibrant atmosphere of innovation and entrepreneurship.
The ambitious initiative has been started with an Expression of Interest (EoI) issued by UP Electronics Corporation Ltd., the designated project nodal agency. The EoI invites real estate developers to collaborate in developing and operating this AI city.
This city aims to converge cutting-edge technology, research centres, and educational institutions, creating an environment where ideas flourish, and the future workforce is nurtured. Key features include plug-and-play infrastructure and a tower with Grade A office space tailored for incubators, start-ups, and corporates. The government will allocate 40 acres in the Nadarganj Industrial Area, ensuring a hassle-free development process without issues of land acquisition, zoning regulations, and necessary clearances.
To incentivize developers, the project offers financial support, including a one-time Capex support of 25% up to Rs 20 crore for IT Park and Rs 100 crore for IT City. Additionally, a 100% stamp duty exemption aligns with the IT and ITeS Policy of 2022, enhancing the project's economic attractiveness.
The AI city goes beyond conventional infrastructure, embracing a holistic approach. It includes a blend of luxury and affordable housing complexes, fostering a walk-to-work model to enhance accessibility and convenience. Recognizing the crucial role of academia, dedicated spaces for top engineering and management institutes are allocated to promote synergies between industry and academia.
A futuristic touch is added with AI-enabled internal modes of transport, emphasizing the integration of advanced technology into the city's fabric. This comprehensive strategy aligns with the vision of creating a dynamic ecosystem that not only embraces technological innovation but also supports a diverse range of residents, businesses, and educational institutions.
In summary, Uttar Pradesh's initiative to build India's first AI city reflects a forward-thinking approach, combining technological innovation, economic incentives, and collaborative spaces to propel the state into a leading hub for AI development and integration.