Secy IT Shashanka Ala chairs meeting on Exploring the potential and implementation of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in UT Ladakh

Excelsior correspondent

LEH, Nov 13: The Department of Information Technology, Union Territory of Ladakh, convened a meeting today to deliberate on the potential and implementation of Artificial Intelligence (AI) across various departments of the UT.

The meeting, chaired by Shashanka Ala, Secretary, Information Technology Department, aimed to explore practical AI-driven solutions, identify pilot use cases, and chart a roadmap for integrating AI in governance, public service delivery, and citizen engagement.

A detailed presentation was made by CoRover AI, showcasing the scope of Artificial Intelligence in diverse sectors such as education, healthcare, agriculture, tourism, and administration.

The presentation highlighted how AI-based innovations can help Ladakh overcome its unique geographical and infrastructural challenges, while enhancing accessibility, efficiency, and sustainability.

During the discussion, Secretary IT engaged deeply with the presenters, raising insightful questions on the applicability, efficiency, and scalability of AI tools in real-world government operations.

She emphasized the need for AI solutions that simplify processes, reduce manpower dependency, and deliver tangible benefits to departments handling heavy workloads.

Referring to examples such as NCERT problem-solving platforms, she urged for the development of solutions that are practical, user-friendly, and accessible to all sections of society.

The Secretary also highlighted the importance of adopting AI gradually, starting with small, department-specific use cases.

She suggested testing AI models through concrete examples such as land and revenue data platforms, ensuring robust authentication and accuracy before wider application.

The Secretary stressed that while AI holds great promise, its implementation in Ladakh should align with the region’s scale and digital penetration, ensuring behavioural adaptation among users.

She encouraged a step-by-step approach, starting with one department to demonstrate measurable outcomes before broader integration.

The meeting was attended by Dr Tashi Thinles, Director Health Department; Ghulam Mohd, Additional Deputy Commissioner Leh; Abdul Mutalib, Chief Engineer, PWD; Directors and Chiefs of various departments; and senior officials from the IT Department. Deputy Commissioner Kargil, the Director of Social and Tribal Affairs, and representatives from CoRover AI, including Ankush Sabharwal, joined the meeting virtually.