SOAR Program:
The Government of India launched the Skilling for AI Readiness (SOAR) programme in July 2025 to integrate artificial intelligence education and training into school curricula.
- A flagship initiative under the Skill India Mission, designed to strengthen AI literacy and competency among students (Classes 6–12) and educators.
- The programme includes structured AI modules, hands-on learning, and ethics-based training to prepare India’s youth for AI-driven careers.I
- mplemented by the Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship (MSDE) in coordination with the Ministry of Education.
Key Features:
- Three 15-hour AI modules for students and one 45-hour advanced module for educators.
- Emphasis on responsible and ethical use of artificial intelligence.
- ₹500 crore allocated in Union Budget 2025–26 to establish a dedicated Centre of Excellence for AI in Education.
- Collaboration with IITs, AICTE, and private sector partners to offer specialised AI and ML courses.
- Integration with the Skill India Digital Hub (SIDH) to ensure accessibility for students across rural and urban areas.
- Under NAPS-2, 1,480 apprentices trained between FY 2022–26 in AI-related roles such as AI Data Engineer and Machine Learning Engineer.
