New Delhi, Jan 1: Describing Artificial Intelligence (AI) as a “big opportunity” for positive change, President Droupadi Murmu emphasized the need to ensure its benefits reach all sections of society, particularly the underprivileged.
Speaking at a programme organized by the Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship, she said AI is emerging as a key driver of India’s economic growth, contributing to GDP, employment, and productivity in the coming decades. Murmu highlighted the importance of skills such as data science, AI engineering, and analytics in building the country’s AI talent pool.
“AI should be utilized to reduce societal, economic, and technological barriers,” she said, noting that the government is working with industry and academia to shape a responsible AI-powered future. She underscored initiatives under the New Education Policy, including AI labs in schools, to foster innovative thinking and prepare a future-ready workforce.
As part of the event under the SOAR — Skilling for AI Readiness initiative, the President conferred AI certificates to students and Members of Parliament and launched the national #SkillTheNation Challenge to encourage youth participation in AI and technology skill programs.
She also virtually inaugurated the IGNOU Regional Centre at Rairangpur, aimed at strengthening employability through skill-oriented training in northern Odisha.
President Murmu concluded that for a young India, AI is not just a technology but a transformative opportunity, and efforts must be made to ensure its benefits are inclusive and far-reaching.
