Workshop on ‘Leadership Empowerment through Artificial Intelligence’ Held in Shimla

Shimla, May 21:
The Department of Digital Technologies and Governance organized a one-day workshop in Shimla on the theme ‘Leadership Empowerment through Artificial Intelligence (AI)’. The event was inaugurated by Gokul Butail, Principal Advisor to the Chief Minister on Innovation, Governance, and Digital Technologies. The workshop saw participation from secretaries of various departments, heads of departments, and other senior officials.

In his address, Gokul Butail said that the primary aim of the workshop was to strengthen leadership capabilities through technological innovation, especially AI. He emphasized that artificial intelligence has the potential to significantly improve decision-making by enabling faster analysis of information, automating processes, and providing actionable insights from large datasets. This, he noted, can lead to more rational and data-driven governance decisions.

He encouraged administrative officers to embrace AI and foster innovation to enhance efficiency and improve public service delivery. “Integrating AI into daily operations will simplify workflows and increase productivity,” he said, adding that under the visionary leadership of Chief Minister Thakur Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu, the state government is committed to transforming Himachal Pradesh into a digital hub.

Highlighting the importance of digital technology in governance, Butail said that the government is ensuring digital delivery of public services and integrating digital solutions across departments. As part of preparing the youth for future challenges and opportunities, AI courses have also been introduced in educational institutions.

He noted that these innovative efforts in the digital domain would pave the way for Himachal Pradesh to gain recognition on the global stage. Prior to his speech, Butail formally inaugurated the workshop by lighting the ceremonial lamp.

Rahil Kahlon, Secretary, Digital Technologies and Governance, welcomed the chief guest and provided an overview of the objectives and agenda of the workshop.

The workshop featured expert sessions, including:

• Shikhar Parashar from UpSkill Microsoft, who spoke on the use of AI tools in day-to-day governance,

• Saroj Bhardwaj from National e-Governance Division, who discussed data analytics using AI,

• Prabhat Singhal, who presented strategies for AI adoption in governance,

• Samrat Kishore, who addressed risk mitigation in AI systems, and

• DIG (Cyber Crime) Mohit Chawla, who provided insights on cyber hygiene.

The event concluded with a vote of thanks by Dr. Nipun Jindal, Director of the Department of Digital Technologies and Governance. He emphasized that the workshop represents a crucial step in making the state’s digital governance framework more accountable, effective, and transparent.