Telangana’s IT and Industries Minister Duddilla Sridhar Babu secured recognition among India’s most influential AI leaders. Analytics India Magazine named him in its 2025 list of India’s 100 Most Influential People in AI. The honour places Sridhar Babu alongside Union Ministers Ashwini Vaishnav and Piyush Goyal in the policymakers category.
Former Union Minister Rajiv Chandrasekhar and India AI Mission executives also made the list, according to the magazine. This recognition signals Telangana’s growing position as India’s AI hub. The state has launched several initiatives that other regions may follow.
Why It Matters Now
Sridhar Babu’s leadership helped create India’s first AI-based Telangana Data Exchange. This platform enables secure data sharing between the government and the private sector. The exchange aims to improve governance while fostering innovation across industries.
The minister also organized the Global AI Summit, bringing together international thought leaders. His administration formulated a comprehensive AI strategy and roadmap for responsible implementation statewide.
Telangana now targets 100 global capability centres by 2025-2026. Plans include establishing an AI University focused on research and talent development. These moves position the state as a serious competitor to established tech hubs.
Strategic Advantage
Analytics India Magazine praised Telangana as a “role model for other states in AI.” The recognition validates the state’s approach to balancing rapid tech adoption with ethical practices.
Sridhar Babu’s background as a former advocate brings legal expertise to AI policy-making. This combination helps create frameworks that protect citizens while encouraging business growth. The state’s strategy emphasizes job creation and youth empowerment.
Global investments are flowing in as companies recognize Telangana’s supportive ecosystem.
Market Impact in India
Telangana’s success challenges Karnataka’s dominance as India’s primary tech destination. The southern state offers alternative locations for companies seeking AI talent and infrastructure.
The AI University initiative could produce thousands of skilled professionals annually. This talent pipeline would support both local startups and international corporations setting up operations.
Data exchange platforms like Telangana’s model may become standard across Indian states. Early adoption gives businesses operating there a competitive advantage in data-driven decision making.
What Business Leaders Should Know
“This recognition is a testament to our government’s vision to use AI for inclusive growth and better lives. I have been included in this list only with the encouragement of CM Revanth Reddy,” he said, adding that Telangana is moving ahead with a mission to become the AI capital of the globe and ensure the benefits of technological progress reach every citizen, an official statement said.”
“This recognition is not just a personal recognition but one for the people of Telangana,” Sridhar Babu said.
Telangana is moving ahead with a mission to become the AI capital of the globe “and Make sure the advantages of technological progress are accessible to everyone.everyone.”citizen.
The recognition from Analytics India Magazine validates Telangana’s comprehensive approach to AI development. Other states are likely studying these policies for potential adoption.
Companies considering expansion in India should evaluate Telangana’s growing ecosystem. The state offers government support, developing talent pools, and infrastructure investments that facilitate AI implementation.
Sridhar Babu’s achievement reflects broader trends in Indian AI governance. States are competing to create favourable conditions for technology companies and startups. This competition benefits businesses seeking supportive regulatory environments for AI deployment.
