A similar push for AI governance is noted in neighboring Tamil Nadu, where an AI ministry and related initiatives were proposed in the election manifesto.

The announcement comes from Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala, dated May 20, 2026.

The changes follow the first cabinet meeting of the new UDF government after oath-taking and a party switch from LDF to UDF.

PK Kunhalikutty, a veteran IUML leader, is appointed to head the AI portfolio in addition to overseeing Industries and Commerce, Information Technology, and related areas like startups, mining and geology, handlooms and textiles.

The AI portfolio formation accompanies the UDF’s return to power after defeating the LDF in the assembly elections, with 20 cabinet members sworn in in mid-May 2026.

Kerala’s new UDF government has created an inaugural cabinet-level Artificial Intelligence portfolio, placed within the Industries and Commerce department alongside Information Technology and allied sectors.

Two senior legal appointments accompany the reshuffle: T Asaf Ali as Director General of Prosecution and Jaju Babu as Advocate General.

This development follows the UDF’s April election victory, which secured 102 seats in Kerala’s 140-member Assembly and signals a shift toward tech-enabled policy.

Governor approval formalized the AI ministry and cabinet allocations, with VD Satheesan sworn in as Chief Minister and leading a 20-member cabinet to deliver key election promises.

Satheesan, who also holds Finance and Law, oversaw the gazette notification of cabinet allocations after assuming office on May 18.

Kerala has already been pursuing AI initiatives across education, startups, and public services, including AI training programs and AI-enabled recruitment systems.

Long-term IT Vision 2031 includes the Kerala Artificial Intelligence Mission (K-AIM), aiming to train one million citizens in AI and attract private investment.