Patna: In a first-of-its-kind initiative in Bihar, the Bihar State Pollution Control Board (BSPCB) has collaborated with leading EdTech institute HCL-GUVI—an IIT Madras and IIM Ahmedabad-incubated venture—to provide Artificial Intelligence (AI) training to its officers and staff. The initiative aims to strengthen the Board’s environmental protection efforts through digital proficiency and advanced technological tools.
Over a four-day programme, both basic and advanced AI training sessions were conducted for nearly 100 Board officials. Trainees who scored above 50 per cent in the basic sessions were selected for further advanced training. A total of 25 officers successfully completed the programme and were awarded certificates at a ceremony held on Tuesday.
Dr D.K. Shukla, Chairman of the BSPCB, while addressing the gathering, stressed the importance of technological adaptability. “This is the age of scientific advancement. We must continue updating our technological skills to remain efficient and innovative. AI will not only ease the workload but also free up time for new research and innovation,” he said.
Speaking at the event, Neeraj Narayan, Member-Secretary of the Board, underlined the importance of integrating AI with human intelligence. “AI used wisely can enhance our capacity to meet emerging challenges in environmental governance,” he noted.
Apoorv Johri, Enterprise Business Head at HCL, lauded the enthusiasm of the participants. “The commitment shown by the Board’s officers during training has been remarkable,” he said. Echoing this, HCL-GUVI’s Public Policy Head, Kirti Karamchandani, emphasised the broader responsibility of government employees. “While private sector employees serve their organisations, government officials serve the people—and AI training equips them to do so more effectively.”
Trainer Chandan Chanchal commended the foresight of the Board’s leadership. “Visionary initiatives like this set the foundation for progressive institutions. The leadership of the Pollution Control Board deserves full credit for this step forward,” he said.
The Board hopes the training will enhance decision-making, data analysis, and environmental monitoring efforts across Bihar, helping it better respond to the state’s growing ecological challenges.
