THEBUSINESSBYTES BUREAU
BHUBANESWAR, AUGUST 12, 2026
Odisha's technology ecosystem received a fresh impetus with
the inauguration of an AI and Robotics Centre, Japan Centre of Excellence and a
Japanese SAP Software Global Capability Centre (GCC) at the campus of NITKAL
Enterprise Services here.
The initiative is aimed at strengthening the state's capabilities in emerging technologies, fostering innovation and research, and developing industry-ready talent for the rapidly expanding digital economy.
NITKAL Enterprise Services, which positions itself as a
bridge between India's technology ecosystem and Japanese businesses, offers
services spanning SAP, digital transformation, AI, robotics and IT skill
development.
The newly inaugurated centres are expected to create a
platform for advanced technology training, research and innovation while
promoting greater collaboration between industry and educational institutions.
The development assumes significance as Odisha seeks to
establish itself as a destination for future-oriented sectors such as
artificial intelligence, robotics, semiconductors and advanced digital
infrastructure.
The initiative is also expected to create new avenues for
high-skilled employment, particularly for the state's growing pool of young
technology professionals.
NITKAL's focus on AI and robotics-based skill development is
in line with its existing portfolio, which includes training in SAP,
Salesforce, AI, machine learning and robotic process automation.
The company's India-Japan focus could further strengthen
technology and talent linkages between the two countries. NITKAL says it works
to address Japan's shortage of IT professionals by leveraging India's
technology talent and has a delivery-centre model connecting India with the
Japanese market.
The initiative comes amid the Odisha government's efforts to
promote emerging technology sectors through policy support, including its AI,
Semiconductor and GCC policies.
The state is seeking to leverage these emerging opportunities
to attract technology companies and investment while building an ecosystem for
innovation and knowledge-based industries.
The establishment of the centres is also expected to provide
momentum to Odisha's transition from the traditional 'Make in Odisha'
investment narrative towards an 'Innovate in Odisha' ecosystem, with greater
emphasis on high-value technology services, research and skilled employment.
With global businesses increasingly adopting AI, automation
and digital technologies, the new facilities could help position Bhubaneswar as
an emerging centre for technology services and talent development, while
deepening Odisha's engagement with Japanese businesses.
The NITKAL initiative also builds on the company's broader India-Japan engagement. The Union government's Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship has previously listed NITKAL Enterprise Services among organisations involved in India-Japan business-to-business arrangements.
