India accelerates AI education to build future-ready workforce

India is rapidly scaling up its Artificial Intelligence (AI) education ecosystem to meet the projected demand for over 1 million AI specialists by 2026. A recent report by the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) titled “India’s AI Revolution: A Roadmap to Viksit Bharat” highlights the urgency of preparing a skilled workforce as AI adoption across industries accelerates.

To support this vision, the government is embedding AI education across all levels—from schools to universities. The IndiaAI Future Skills initiative is playing a crucial role in integrating AI into the mainstream curriculum. Full-time PhD students in AI at top
NIRF-ranked institutions are now eligible for fellowships. Additionally, the All-India Council for Technical Education (AICTE) has significantly increased approvals for BTech seats in AI, Machine Learning, Cybersecurity, Cloud Computing, Blockchain, and related fields, including a 50% hike for 2024–25. 

Efforts are also underway to democratise access to AI education in smaller towns and Tier 2/3 cities. New Data & AI Labs and National Skilling Centres of Excellence are being established to provide practical training and infrastructure. Delhi’s NIELIT has set up a model lab to offer students hands-on experience in emerging technologies.

IndiaAI Dataset Platform and Open GPU Marketplace are also being launched to support affordable access to high-performance computing resources for startups, students, and researchers.

Aligned with the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, higher education institutions are updating curricula to include cutting-edge technologies such as AI, 5G, and semiconductor design. Online platforms like SWAYAM Plus, led by IIT Madras, are now offering new AI courses open to students and professionals alike.

In the Union Budget 2025–26, the government allocated Rs 500 crore to establish a Centre of Excellence in AI for Education. This initiative aims to foster collaboration between academia, industry, and government to develop AI-driven educational tools, including smart course content and adaptive learning systems.

Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman stated that AI will be instrumental in closing learning gaps and preparing students with skills for tomorrow. Together, these efforts mark a significant step toward positioning India as a global hub for AI talent.