India’s Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY), under the IndiaAI Mission, has launched a major new initiative: a free artificial intelligence (AI) course aimed at training 10 million citizens with basic AI skills by January 2026. This 4.5-hour, self-paced online programme called “YUVA AI for ALL” strives to make AI education accessible to people from all walks of life across urban and rural India.

Bridging the Digital Divide Through AI

India has made impressive strides in digital growth in recent years. However, many rural areas still face limited access to devices, internet connectivity, and digital education. To address this gap, the government is leveraging its extensive network of over 5.5 lakh Common Service Centres (CSCs), which have become vital digital hubs for rural and semi-urban communities.

Village Level Entrepreneurs (VLEs), who operate these CSCs, are a key focus of this initiative. By training VLEs in AI, the government intends to empower them as local champions who can help bring AI tools and knowledge to farmers, small shopkeepers, students, and residents in their villages. This grassroot approach aims to spread AI literacy widely and foster local innovation and problem-solving, ensuring that India’s digital revolution is inclusive and far-reaching.

Comprehensive Learning Through Six Modules

The course content is designed in six easy-to-understand modules, ensuring even beginners can engage effectively. Initially, learners are introduced to the fundamentals of AI: what it is, how it works, and where it is already present in everyday life, such as in smartphones, online shopping, or education apps.

Further modules demonstrate how AI is used in Indian contexts, making examples relatable by focusing on agriculture, healthcare, education, and governance. Responsible AI usage is also stressed, introducing learners to important topics like data privacy, fairness, and avoiding misinformation.

Practical applications are a key part of the course. Learners explore AI-driven career opportunities and get hands-on experience with simple AI tools. The course concludes by looking ahead to future trends such as generative AI and quantum computing, preparing participants for the evolving technology landscape.

Upon completion, learners earn an official Government of India certificate, which can improve their employment prospects and boost confidence in the digital economy.

IndiaAI Mission’s Vision for an AI-Ready Nation

“YUVA AI for ALL” is part of the ambitious IndiaAI Mission, a government programme with a budget of over Rs 10,000 crore stretching across five years, aimed at strengthening India’s AI ecosystem. Recognising that over 65 per cent of India’s population is below 35 years, the mission focuses heavily on preparing youth with relevant AI skills to face the future economy’s demands.

The course was developed with the expertise of AI professionals like Jaspreet Bindra, founder of AI & Beyond, blending global AI knowledge with Indian realities. To maximize reach, the course is hosted on platforms such as FutureSkills Prime and iGOT Karmayogi, while CSC centres provide on-ground support for learners with limited internet or device access, making the programme highly inclusive.

Schools, colleges, and organisations are encouraged to integrate this course within their study and training programmes, helping build a wide base of AI-literate citizens across different age groups and educational backgrounds. Language localisation and co-branding initiatives have also been planned to extend the course’s accessibility.

Through this initiative, India aims not only to close its digital divide but also to cultivate a responsible, knowledgeable population ready to use AI technology for innovation, entrepreneurship, and social good. By empowering 10 million citizens with AI skills, India hopes to take a giant leap toward becoming a global leader in the AI-driven future.

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