TECH-Wari: Maharashtra’s Confident March Towards Digital Governance
Vipul Vaidya
Mumbai: The General Administration Department has launched a unique initiative titled “TECH-Wari – Tech Learning Week”, aimed at equipping employees across all levels in Maharashtra with the knowledge, tools, and mindset required for the digital age. Scheduled from May 5 to 9, 2025 at the Mantralaya in Mumbai, TECH-Wari will be more than just a training program – it marks a pivotal step in Maharashtra’s journey of digital transformation in governance.
Rooted in the culturally significant concept of “Wari,” this initiative symbolizes dedication and collective progress. TECH-Wari aims to instill a spirit of continuous learning and collaboration among government personnel. Its core purpose is to empower employees to embrace technology and deliver more efficient, citizen-centric governance.
Empowerment Through Emerging Technologies
The heart of TECH-Wari lies in making cutting-edge technologies accessible and understandable to all government employees. Topics such as Artificial Intelligence (AI), Blockchain, Internet of Things (IoT), Cybersecurity, and Digital Finance will be simplified through expert-led sessions. These sessions will explore how such technologies can enhance administrative efficiency, improve service delivery, and boost citizen participation.
Recognizing that well-being is as crucial as technical skills, TECH-Wari also includes special sessions on stress management, music therapy, meditation, and work-life balance – all aimed at creating a balanced and healthy government workforce.
An Assembly of Renowned Speakers
The event features an impressive lineup of distinguished speakers. On May 5, celebrated motivational speaker prabhu Gaur Gopal Das will speak on “Effective and Stress-Free Living.” On May 6, famous chef Madhura Bachal will present “The Culinary Journey.” Rujuta Diwekar will discuss “Healthy Lifestyle” on May 7, while Dr. Santosh Borade will deliver a session on “Life Through Music” on May 8, followed by sessions on meditation and inner peace.
Transformers in Government Technology
Several eminent leaders will deliver talks on technology-led governance transformation:
• S. Krishnan, Secretary, MeitY – “Transforming Governance through Technology” • Abhishek Singh, CEO, AI India Mission – “Artificial Intelligence” • Debjani Ghosh, Fellow, NITI Aayog – “Frontier Tech for a Developed Maharashtra” • Amitabh Nag, CEO, Digital India – “Technology Breaking Language Barriers”
Senior Maharashtra Government Officials
Insights from key state officials will include:
• Rajesh Kumar, Additional Chief Secretary, Revenue Dept. – “Frontier Tech in Revenue Department” • Manisha Verma, Additional Chief Secretary, Skill Development Dept. – “Startup Demo Day – Maha-Rise Platform” • Vijayalakshmi Bidari, Divisional Commissioner, Nagpur – “Frontier Tech in Disaster Management and Rehabilitation” • Pravin Gedam, Divisional Commissioner, Nashik – “Use of Frontier Tech in Kumbh Mela” • Shekhar Singh, Commissioner, PCMC – “Frontier Tech in Urban Sectors” • Suraj Mandhare, Agriculture Commissioner – “Effective Use of Technology in Personal and Professional Life” • Dr. Vikas Naik, CEO, Maharashtra State Innovation Society.
NASSCOM Experts
• LTI Mindtree – Artificial Intelligence (AI) • Ravindra Deshpande, Allied Digital – Internet of Things (IoT) • Laukik Ragji, Baker Hughes – Blockchain • Prasad Devare and Sukrit Ghosh, NASSCOM – Cybersecurity • Shailesh Rangari and Mehr Ullipalem, Zoom – “How to Conduct Smart Meetings” • Prajakta Talwalkar and Rahul Mule, Mastek – Digital Awareness
Key partners in this initiative include Karmayogi Bharat (for digital learning), NASSCOM (as startup and tech partner), and Institute of Hotel Management (for nutrition and wellness sessions).
Spreading Lifelong Learning
Aligned with the vision of Digital India, TECH-Wari promotes a culture of continuous learning. Government officials and staff are encouraged to utilize digital learning platforms like iGOT. Notably, over 5 lakh employees in Maharashtra are registered on iGOT, having completed over 10 lakh courses.
Driving Innovation in Governance
TECH-Wari proves that innovation is not limited to the private sector. The government too is adopting new technologies to bring about transformation. By engaging employees at every level with fresh ideas and digital tools, Maharashtra is building an innovative, efficient, and citizen-centric administration.
A Platform for New Opportunities
TECH-Wari is not just about training – it also supports entrepreneurship and innovation. In partnership with the Departments of Skill, Employment, Entrepreneurship, and Innovation, a session titled “MahaRise – Startup Pitching” will be organized. Here, 24 winning startups from Maharashtra Startup Week 2025 will get the chance to present their products and services to senior government officials.
A Determined Step Toward the Future
Through TECH-Wari, Maharashtra confidently declares: “We don’t just embrace change, we lead it.” Every employee is a change agent, committed to building a tech-enabled, progressive, and empathetic Maharashtra.