Maharashtra To Leverage AI, Quantum Tech For Financial Inclusion

Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis announced on Wednesday that the state will utilize Agentic AI, quantum technology, and tokenisation to expand financial inclusion for its citizens.

Fadnavis made this statement while addressing the Global Fintech Fest 2026 at the Jio Centre in Bandra-Kurla Complex. He emphasized that the convergence of these technologies has the potential to bring about a significant transformation in the financial sector.

The Chief Minister highlighted the theme of this year's festival, 'Potential of Impact', and stressed the need to convert technological capabilities into tangible outcomes. He also mentioned that Maharashtra has begun working on the proposed Maharashtra Digitisation and Exchange of Land Token Assets (DELTA) Act, which aims to create a legal framework for blockchain-based tokenisation of land and immovable property.

Experts from SEBI, BSE, NSE, industry, technology, law, and academia will be involved in framing the proposed legislation. The tokenisation of land and immovable property could unlock capital currently tied up in real estate, enhance transparency and liquidity, and put otherwise idle assets to productive economic use.

Fadnavis said that India has set a global example through the Unified Payments Interface (UPI), but the next phase should focus on democratising access to credit, investment, ownership rights, and financial information. He believes that emerging technologies can enable entrepreneurs, farmers, and women entrepreneurs across Maharashtra to access quality financial information and services comparable to those available to large financial institutions.

The Chief Minister highlighted the potential of Agentic AI, stating that an AI assistant could eventually identify an entrepreneur's financial requirements and suggest suitable options. Farmers could also receive financial advice in their mother tongue. However, he stressed that while AI may work on behalf of citizens, final control must remain with the citizens.

Mumbai, Pune, and Navi Mumbai are powering the state's growing fintech ecosystem, with Mumbai's financial ecosystem, Pune's technology and engineering capabilities, and Navi Mumbai's data, infrastructure, and global connectivity contributing to the state's strong fintech ecosystem. Fadnavis urged the industry to view Maharashtra not merely as a market but as a laboratory for innovation.

The state's commitment to financial inclusion and emerging technologies is expected to have a significant impact on the lives of its citizens, particularly entrepreneurs, farmers, and women entrepreneurs. With the proposed DELTA Act and the involvement of experts from various fields, Maharashtra is poised to become a leader in the fintech sector.

The Chief Minister's announcement is a significant step towards leveraging technology to bridge the financial access gap across Maharashtra. As the state continues to work towards creating a strong fintech ecosystem, it is likely to attract more investment and innovation in the sector.

In conclusion, Maharashtra's plans to harness emerging technologies for financial inclusion are a positive step towards creating a more equitable and accessible financial system for its citizens. The state's commitment to innovation and technology is expected to have a lasting impact on the lives of its citizens and contribute to the growth of the fintech sector in India.

The use of Agentic AI, quantum technology, and tokenisation is expected to bring about a significant transformation in the financial sector, and Maharashtra is well-positioned to lead this transformation. As the state continues to work towards creating a strong fintech ecosystem, it is likely to become a hub for innovation and investment in the sector.

Overall, the Chief Minister's announcement is a significant step towards creating a more inclusive and accessible financial system for the citizens of Maharashtra. The state's commitment to emerging technologies and innovation is expected to have a lasting impact on the lives of its citizens and contribute to the growth of the fintech sector in India.