Andhra minister Lokesh in Russia to explore collaboration in AI, quantum computing
Amaravati, June 3
Andhra Pradesh is exploring opportunities for collaboration with Russia in Artificial Intelligence, quantum computing, and digital innovation as state minister Nara Lokesh began his visit to Russia on Wednesday.
As part of Andhra Pradesh's efforts to build global technology partnerships, Minister for Education, IT and Electronics, Nara Lokesh, held discussions with Albert Yefimov, Senior Vice President of Sberbank, one of Russia's leading financial and technology institutions.
The meeting provided an opportunity to understand Russia's progress in sovereign artificial intelligence, digital platforms, advanced computing and technology-led innovation.
Discussions covered emerging areas including generative AI, digital public infrastructure, cybersecurity, fintech, quantum computing, workforce skilling and technology applications in public services.
Sberbank representatives presented an overview of the bank's technology ecosystem, including its GigaChat large language model, AI research initiatives and digital solutions deployed across banking and public-facing services.
Minister Lokesh highlighted Andhra Pradesh's ambition to emerge as a leading AI and technology hub and expressed interest in exploring areas where global best practices and technological innovations could support the state's digital transformation agenda.
According to an official release here, the discussions also touched upon the growing role of artificial intelligence in healthcare, including early disease detection, diagnostics, medical research, hospital operations and citizen-facing health services. Both sides exchanged views on how AI-driven solutions could improve healthcare accessibility and outcomes at scale.
The meeting also explored developments in quantum computing and advanced research ecosystems.
Lokesh noted Andhra Pradesh's interest in emerging technologies and discussed possibilities for future engagement between research institutions, technology companies and innovation ecosystems in areas related to quantum technologies.
The two sides exchanged views on technology education and workforce development models. Discussions included global approaches to coding education, AI skills development and industry-oriented training programmes aimed at preparing young professionals for the digital economy.
The meeting also covered broader opportunities to strengthen economic engagement between India and Russia, including facilitating business linkages, supporting exporters and leveraging technology to improve cross-border trade ecosystems.
Albert Yefimov shared insights into Sberbank's operations in India and its ongoing engagement with Indian businesses and institutions. Both sides agreed to remain in touch and explore areas of mutual interest as opportunities emerge.
During his Russia visit, Lokesh will engage global technology leaders, research institutions and industry stakeholders across emerging sectors.
— IANS
Reader Comments
Great move by Nara Lokesh! Quantum computing and AI are the future, and tapping into Russian expertise is smart. I just hope we also focus on grassroots-level digital education in our villages, not just high-end tech. Balance is key. 🇮🇳
Interesting to see Andhra reach out to Russia. I'm from the US and usually we think of China or the US for tech, but Russia has strong fundamentals. Hope this partnership benefits both sides, especially in healthcare AI and cybersecurity. Good for global diversity in tech!
Honestly, I'm a bit skeptical. We have seen many such international visits end with photo ops and no concrete outcomes. Lokesh ji, please focus on getting our state's basic internet connectivity right first. Without that, all this AI talk is just hot air.
As someone working in tech, this is a wise move. Sberbank's GigaChat is impressive, and Russia's sovereign AI approach is worth studying. The focus on workforce skilling and healthcare applications is timely. Andhra could become a model for other Indian states. Kudos!
This is a great initiative! Russia has strong fundamentals in quantum computing and mathematics. Our engineering students will benefit immensely if we get exchange programs and joint research labs. Also, cybersecurity collaboration is much needed in today's world. Well done, sir! 👏
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