AI Skills

New Delhi
President Droupadi Murmu on Thursday launched the SkillTheNation AI Challenge and virtually inaugurated the IGNOU Regional Centre and Skill Centre at Rairangpur in Odisha, highlighting artificial intelligence as a key driver of inclusive growth. Speaking at the Rashtrapati Bhavan Cultural Centre, she said AI is reshaping societies and economies worldwide, influencing how people learn, work, and access services. For India, a young and dynamic country, AI represents an opportunity to drive positive change and inclusive development.

The President expressed appreciation for students preparing themselves for an AI-driven future and urged them to use their skills to serve society, solve challenges, and empower others. She also acknowledged Members of Parliament who completed AI learning modules, highlighting the importance of continuous learning and leadership in the digital era.

President Murmu emphasised that AI will be crucial in boosting India’s GDP, employment, and productivity over the coming decade. She highlighted the need for expertise in areas such as data science, AI engineering, and data analytics to build a strong national talent pool.

She noted that the government, working with institutions, industry, and academia, aims not only to adopt advanced technologies but also to promote responsible and inclusive use of AI. President Murmu called for collective effort toward making India a knowledge superpower and achieving the goals of the National Education Policy.

The launch is part of the Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship’s ongoing initiatives to equip India’s workforce for an AI-driven future. The program reflects the government’s focus on fostering innovation, skill development, and technology-led growth to ensure India’s progress in the global digital economy.