In a major push toward strengthening India’s digital and creative economy, the Government of India has launched a nationwide Artificial Intelligence (AI) skilling programme in collaboration with Google and YouTube. The initiative, led by the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting (MIB) in partnership with the Indian Institute of Creative Technologies (IICT), aims to equip the next generation of creators and professionals with advanced AI capabilities.
15,000 Scholarships to Empower Talent
A key highlight of the programme is the announcement of 15,000 scholarships, which will provide aspiring creators, students, and digital professionals access to high-quality AI training. The initiative focuses on nurturing talent across fields such as media, entertainment, animation, gaming, and digital storytelling.
These scholarships are designed to make cutting-edge AI education more accessible and to prepare individuals for the rapidly evolving digital landscape.
Focus on Industry-Ready Skills
Unlike traditional training programmes, this initiative emphasizes practical, industry-oriented learning. Participants will gain hands-on experience with AI tools, creative workflows, and digital content production techniques.
The programme will be implemented by IICT, which will oversee curriculum design, outreach, and execution, ensuring alignment with real-world industry demands.
Two-Phase Learning Approach
The AI skilling programme is expected to follow a structured, two-phase model:
- Phase 1: Foundational AI learning, including access to Google Career Certificates and generative AI tools
- Phase 2: Advanced, project-based training focused on storytelling, content creation, and platform-specific best practices
This approach ensures that participants move beyond basic knowledge to gain production-ready skills.
Boost to India’s Creative Economy
The initiative is part of the government’s broader vision to position India as a global hub for digital innovation and creative technologies. By integrating AI into mainstream creative education, the programme aims to enhance productivity, innovation, and global competitiveness in the content ecosystem.
Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw highlighted that such collaborations are crucial for preparing youth for future jobs and strengthening India’s leadership in the creative and technology sectors.
Collaboration with Tech Giants
The partnership with Google and YouTube brings global expertise and platform-level insights into the programme. This collaboration will enable participants to learn industry best practices and leverage advanced AI tools widely used in content creation and distribution.
Conclusion
The launch of this AI skilling programme marks a significant step in India’s journey toward a digitally empowered future. By offering 15,000 scholarships and industry-focused training, the initiative not only enhances employability but also fosters innovation in the creative sector.
As AI continues to transform industries, such forward-looking programmes will play a crucial role in shaping a skilled, future-ready workforce and strengthening India’s position in the global digital economy.
Source: Times of India
