India is rapidly positioning itself as a global hub for artificial intelligence. The sector has expanded quickly across startups, enterprises, and academic institutions. In 2024, about 89 percent of new startups were AI powered. Moreover, nearly 87 percent of enterprises actively used AI technologies.
The momentum continues to build. The Indian AI market is expected to grow between 25 and 35 percent annually through 2027. Consequently, the country will require a much larger skilled workforce. India had roughly 600,000 to 650,000 AI professionals in 2024. However, projections suggest that more than 1.25 million AI professionals will be required by 2027.
Government policies and educational reforms therefore aim to prepare the workforce for this shift. The strategy aligns with the Viksit Bharat 2047 vision. Furthermore, it emphasises inclusive growth by expanding access to technology across urban and rural regions.
National Education Policy and AI
The National Education Policy 2020 recognises that artificial intelligence, big data, and machine learning will transform the labour market. Therefore, the policy encourages multidisciplinary education that includes computer science and data science.
Students are expected to learn emerging technologies alongside traditional subjects. As a result, the policy aims to improve employability and economic opportunity.
Education falls under the Concurrent List in India. Consequently, the policy influences both Union and State education strategies. This coordinated effort supports the broader objective of building global leadership in AI.
AI in School Education
AI education now appears in school curricula across India. The Ministry of Education introduced this integration through CBSE and NCERT under the National Education Policy 2020 and the National Curriculum Framework 2023.
Currently, CBSE provides a 15 hour AI skill module beginning in Class VI. Additionally, students may choose AI as an optional subject from Classes IX to XII.
Meanwhile, NCERT has introduced AI content into Class XI Computer Science and Informatics Practices textbooks. It has also used AI and machine learning tools to translate early grade textbooks into 22 Indian languages.
Platforms and Training
Several digital platforms support AI education for students and teachers. The DIKSHA platform provides AI enabled search features and read aloud tools for visually impaired learners. Furthermore, the platform offers curriculum aligned learning material for teachers, students, and parents.
The SOAR initiative builds AI readiness among students from Classes VI to XII. It also trains teachers through a dedicated AI for Educators module. This programme teaches classroom integration, inclusive pedagogy, and responsible AI practices.
Similarly, the SWAYAM platform offers more than 110 free AI courses developed by institutions such as IITs and IISc. Over 41 lakh learners have already enrolled.
Higher Education and Partnerships
AI education continues into higher learning institutions. The undergraduate curriculum introduced in 2022 includes subjects such as machine learning, big data analysis, drone technologies, and deep learning applications.
Additionally, technical institutions integrate AI modules into information technology programmes. They also organise hackathons to promote innovation and awareness. Scholarships and faculty development programmes further strengthen participation in engineering education.
Partnerships also support experiential learning. For example, AI tools are being introduced to millions of students across thousands of institutions through institutional access and faculty training.
Research and Innovation
India is also expanding research and development in artificial intelligence. Several initiatives support students, researchers, and startups developing practical AI applications.
A major effort focuses on open source AI development. Programmes encourage young developers to create solutions for healthcare, agriculture, education, smart cities, and financial inclusion.
Key activities include training workshops, learning resources, hackathons, and startup incubation programmes. These initiatives help transform academic research into real world innovation.
Skilling the Workforce
India has launched multiple national programmes to strengthen AI and digital skills. These initiatives target students, industrial trainees, professionals, and government officials.
Short term training programmes under national skill missions already train thousands of individuals in AI technologies. Importantly, many programmes promote participation among women.
Large scale digital learning platforms also support workforce transformation. They provide hundreds of courses covering artificial intelligence, cloud computing, and big data.
In addition, introductory AI literacy programmes aim to reach millions of citizens. Therefore, the government seeks to build both advanced expertise and broad digital awareness.
Together, these initiatives strengthen India’s talent pipeline for global leadership in artificial intelligence. They also expand access to digital opportunities across diverse communities.
With inputs from PIB