The Government of India has announced a nationwide drive to provide free Artificial Intelligence (AI) training to 10 lakh citizens, with a dedicated focus on village-level entrepreneurs. This ambitious initiative is being rolled out through the network of Common Services Centres (CSCs), which play a crucial role in delivering digital services across rural India.

Union Minister for Electronics and IT, Ashwini Vaishnaw, revealed details of the plan during the 10th anniversary of the Digital India programme and the 16th foundation day of the CSC network. The new programme aims to equip ordinary citizens, especially those from rural and remote areas, with cutting-edge skills that are now shaping the world of technology and employment.

Priority for Village Level Entrepreneurs

Out of the total 10 lakh targeted trainees, nearly 5.5 lakh Village Level Entrepreneurs (VLEs) will be given preference. These VLEs are the backbone of more than 5.5 lakh functional CSCs that have now reached about 90% of all Indian villages. They deliver essential government, banking, health, and digital services to rural households. Until recently, many VLEs themselves doubted their ability to compete in the digital world. Now, they are being trusted as trailblazers for AI adoption in villages.

What sets this initiative apart is its multiplier approach. By training VLEs first, the government creates local champions who can then guide others in their localities. The ripple effect could be transformative. Picture a small farmer accessing AI-powered advice for pest control, a rural health worker using AI diagnostics, or a teacher bringing smart learning to their students—all guided by a VLE who has just completed this training.

Of course, challenges remain—such as internet connectivity and awareness—but testimonials from early adopters already show a spark of change. Women VLEs from remote states have shared stories of newfound confidence, higher income, and the respect that comes with digital know-how.

What Is Being Offered in the New AI Training Programme?

This AI training is a part of the larger IndiaAI Mission, which was approved by the Cabinet with a budget of over ₹10,000 crore. The mission seeks to democratise digital skills such as AI, machine learning, data analytics, and cybersecurity. The government wants to ensure that even small village entrepreneurs—once doubted for their use of digital tools—can now dream bigger and adopt next-generation technologies.

The move builds on the tremendous success of digital adoption in India. The example of UPI, India’s mobile payments platform, now surpassing international giants like Visa, shows the potential for rural India to embrace transformative technologies if given the right tools and training.

How Will the Training be Conducted?

AI training will be delivered through CSCs, providing local language teaching material wherever possible. The programme is designed to be accessible to all, overcoming barriers like distance and prior technical knowledge. Special modules are being prepared for VLEs so they can directly support their communities once the training is completed.

The idea is to make AI skills accessible to every citizen, not just those from urban backgrounds or elite institutes. The Minister also mentioned that efforts are on to integrate CSC services further with state governments and enhance their offerings by enabling railway ticket bookings, IRCTC services, and stronger cyber security awareness.

Looking Forward

The government hopes this training boost will help India remain globally competitive and ready for future jobs, besides transforming the very fabric of rural life. Testimonials from VLEs who have already embraced digital tools prove how lives can change, with women from small districts and remote states emerging as role models. The free AI initiative aims to repeat this transformation at an unprecedented scale.

The doors are now open for lakhs of rural youth and entrepreneurs, many of whom may become the next digital leaders of their villages. The government’s message is clear: the power of AI should be in the hands of every Indian.

For more detailed updates on how to enrol in the free AI programme and the latest stories from India’s digital revolution, stay tuned with us.

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