LUCKNOW, Feb. 11 -- The Uttar Pradesh government has announced a sharp increase in the annual allocation for the IT and electronics department, earmarking Rs.2,059 crore in the 2026-27 budget, almost 76% higher than last year.

Artificial intelligence (AI) has been given special emphasis, with the state set to launch the Uttar Pradesh AI Mission and a provision of Rs.225 crore made for it. In addition, AI labs will be established in 49 Industrial Training Institutes (ITIs) under the IndiaAI Mission. An additional Rs.32.82 crore has been allocated for setting up AI centres of excellence and IndiaAI data labs. The government said the objective is to connect youth with emerging technologies and create employment opportunities.

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