Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis announced the development of an artificial intelligence tool in collaboration with the Indian Institute of Technology Bombay (IIT-B) aimed at identifying illegal Bangladeshi immigrants. This initiative addresses a significant political and social concern, as the detection and deportation of illegal immigrants has been a critical election issue in the state. The AI tool is intended to streamline and improve the accuracy of identifying unauthorized migrants, supporting government efforts to manage immigration more effectively.

Fadnavis emphasized that this technology will help law enforcement agencies and administrative bodies by providing a sophisticated method to distinguish illegal immigrants from residents legally residing in the state. The tool is reportedly expected to be ready within six months. By leveraging IIT Bombay’s expertise in cutting-edge AI research, the government seeks to apply innovative technology to a complex and sensitive problem, aligning with broader trends in using AI for national security and immigration control.

This AI-based approach reflects a growing interest in integrating artificial intelligence into public administration and governance in India. Although details about the tool’s exact methodology and data sources were not disclosed, its development indicates a strategic effort to enhance immigration enforcement, which remains a politically charged topic. The project underscores how AI is increasingly being deployed in diverse policy areas beyond traditional tech sectors.