IndiaAI, under the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY), has announced an invitation for the empanelment of agencies to provide AI services on the cloud.
This move is part of the IndiaAI Mission, a government-led initiative focused on creating an inclusive and comprehensive AI ecosystem across the nation.
The initiative is being implemented by the IndiaAI Independent Business Division (IBD) under the Digital India Corporation (DIC).
This initiative aims to democratize AI resources across India, stimulate innovation, and support a diverse range of stakeholders including academia, MSMEs, startups, and government bodies.
Objective
The IndiaAI Mission’s primary goal is to foster an inclusive and innovative AI ecosystem within India.
By inviting agencies to offer cloud based AI services, the mission seeks to ensure equitable access to cutting-edge AI infrastructure.
This step is part of a broader strategy to enhance domestic AI expertise, improve data quality, attract top talent, and promote industry partnerships.
Understanding Empanelment
Empanelment in this context refers to the process of officially approving and including agencies on a designated list to provide specific services.
For IndiaAI, empanelment means selecting and recognizing certain agencies that meet their criteria to deliver AI services on the cloud.
Once empaneled, these agencies will be eligible to offer their services to approved end users, such as academic institutions, startups, research communities, and government bodies.
Scope and Process
Empaneled agencies will provide essential cloud services including high-performance computing, network, and storage capabilities necessary for the development of indigenous large language models (LLMs) and other AI applications.
The services will be available to approved end users—such as academic institutions, startups, research communities, government bodies, and public sector agencies—at competitive prices determined through a transparent process.
The empanelment will be valid for 36 months, with an option for extension based on mutually agreed terms.
It is crucial to note that this invitation is not a procurement offer but a call for proposals from interested and eligible bidders.
Issuing Authority and Final Decision
The IndiaAI Independent Business Division, functioning under the Digital India Corporation, is responsible for this empanelment process.
IndiaAI will make the final decision on the selection of AI service providers, and its decision will be final and binding.
Once the empanelment is complete, IndiaAI will publish a list of approved vendors and their services, including pricing details, to ensure transparency and facilitate access for various stakeholders.
Submission Details
Interested agencies must submit their bids electronically via the GeM – Central Public Procurement Portal by 5:00 PM on September 6, 2024.
Bids submitted through other channels will not be considered.
For additional information, stakeholders are encouraged to review the full application document.
