Nara Lokesh discusses AI and digital innovation partnerships in Russia

Andhra Pradesh Minister Nara Lokesh began his Russia visit by holding discussions with Sberbank officials on artificial intelligence, quantum computing, digital innovation and workforce development. The talks explored opportunities for future collaboration to support the state's technology-driven growth and digital transformation agenda

Amaravati: Andhra Pradesh is exploring opportunities for collaboration with Russia in Artificial Intelligence, quantum computing, and digital innovation as state minister Nara Lokesh began his visit to Russia on Wednesday.

As part of Andhra Pradesh’s efforts to build global technology partnerships, Minister for Education, IT and Electronics, Nara Lokesh, held discussions with Albert Yefimov, Senior Vice President of Sberbank, one of Russia’s leading financial and technology institutions.

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The meeting provided an opportunity to understand Russia’s progress in sovereign artificial intelligence, digital platforms, advanced computing and technology-led innovation.

Discussions covered emerging areas including generative AI, digital public infrastructure, cybersecurity, fintech, quantum computing, workforce skilling and technology applications in public services.

Sberbank representatives presented an overview of the bank’s technology ecosystem, including its GigaChat large language model, AI research initiatives and digital solutions deployed across banking and public-facing services.

Minister Lokesh highlighted Andhra Pradesh’s ambition to emerge as a leading AI and technology hub and expressed interest in exploring areas where global best practices and technological innovations could support the state’s digital transformation agenda.

According to an official release here, the discussions also touched upon the growing role of artificial intelligence in healthcare, including early disease detection, diagnostics, medical research, hospital operations and citizen-facing health services. Both sides exchanged views on how AI-driven solutions could improve healthcare accessibility and outcomes at scale.

The meeting also explored developments in quantum computing and advanced research ecosystems.

Lokesh noted Andhra Pradesh’s interest in emerging technologies and discussed possibilities for future engagement between research institutions, technology companies and innovation ecosystems in areas related to quantum technologies.

The two sides exchanged views on technology education and workforce development models. Discussions included global approaches to coding education, AI skills development and industry-oriented training programmes aimed at preparing young professionals for the digital economy.

The meeting also covered broader opportunities to strengthen economic engagement between India and Russia, including facilitating business linkages, supporting exporters and leveraging technology to improve cross-border trade ecosystems.

Albert Yefimov shared insights into Sberbank’s operations in India and its ongoing engagement with Indian businesses and institutions. Both sides agreed to remain in touch and explore areas of mutual interest as opportunities emerge.

During his Russia visit, Lokesh will engage global technology leaders, research institutions and industry stakeholders across emerging sectors.