The Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship has systematically integrated Artificial Intelligence into the national skilling ecosystem through multiple initiatives. The Skill India Digital Hub (SIDH) serves as the core Digital Public Infrastructure platform, hosting the Skilling for AI Readiness (SOAR) program launched on July 22, 2025. The program initially featured four foundational online courses and expanded to include 50 AI and AI application-oriented qualifications. As of August 6, 2026, the SOAR program has achieved 517,477 learner enrollments with 100,664 certifications completed.
Under Pradhan Mantri Kaushal Vikas Yojana (PMKVY) 4.0, emphasis has been placed on industry-aligned future skills including Artificial Intelligence, Machine Learning, Data Science, IoT, Cyber Security, Cloud Computing, Semiconductors, Drones, Electric Vehicles, Green Hydrogen, Robotics, AR/VR and 5G Technologies. As per SIDH reports up to June 30, 2026, PMKVY 4.0 has trained/oriented 544,383 candidates and certified 373,766 candidates in future-skills job roles. The scheme framework incorporates demand-driven skilling, enhanced industry participation, mandatory On-the-Job Training, promotion of apprenticeship opportunities, and digital monitoring mechanisms.
The National Apprenticeship Promotion Scheme (NAPS) promotes apprenticeship training in emerging sectors including Artificial Intelligence, Machine Learning, Robotics, Cyber Security, Data Analytics and Green Jobs. Over the last three years, NAPS has engaged 3,175 apprentices and certified 855 apprentices in AI and Machine Learning-related job roles through industry and Sector Skill Councils participation.
The Directorate General of Training has introduced AI into vocational training through multiple programs: a one-year Artificial Intelligence Programming Assistant (AIPA) course, a 240-hour Generative AI course, and a 7.5-hour AI micro-credential for ITI trainees. The Employability Skills curriculum now includes modules on Artificial Intelligence and Green Skills. The AIPA course is being conducted at 23 National Skill Training Institutes across the country.
The Cabinet has approved the Pradhan Mantri Skilling and Employability Transformation through Upgraded ITIs (PM-SETU) scheme with an estimated cost of ₹60,000 crore (Central Share: ₹30,000 crore, State Share: ₹20,000 crore, Industry Share: ₹10,000 crore) for upgradation of 1,000 ITIs through hub-and-spoke arrangements. The scheme provides an industry-led Special Purpose Vehicle autonomy to modify curriculum by introducing new courses and upgrading existing courses in emerging areas including Artificial Intelligence, cybersecurity, cloud computing, data analytics, robotics, IoT, and other Industry 4.0 technologies.
The Ministry has issued Guidelines for Empanelment of Centre of Excellence – Skills and Vocational Training Centres, which provide for advanced, technology-enabled training delivery including AI-enabled infrastructure, digital learning tools and emerging technology labs. The National Programme on Artificial Intelligence (NPAI) Skilling Framework, notified on September 25, 2023, provides a three-tiered approach comprising AI for All, AI for Many and AI for the Few with structured learning pathways aligned with industry requirements.
Currently there are 119 NSQF-aligned and NSQC-approved qualifications related to Artificial Intelligence, Machine Learning and Data Science, including the SOAR program courses delivered through SIDH by NCVET-recognized Awarding Bodies. The government has ensured access to digital skilling platforms including SIDH for citizens across rural, remote and aspirational districts. Under PMKVY 4.0, 3,730 candidates have been trained/oriented and 2,651 certified in AI-related job roles in Aspirational Districts, while 3,435 candidates trained/oriented and 2,331 certified in Tribal Districts as of June 30, 2026.
State-wise data shows significant variations in AI skilling outcomes. Karnataka leads in PMKVY 4.0 with 12,757 trained/oriented and 10,240 certified, followed by Tamil Nadu (3,316 trained, 2,157 certified) and Telangana (3,461 trained, 2,110 certified). In CTS New Age Courses enrollment over three years, Tamil Nadu leads with 20,599 enrollments, followed by Karnataka (15,834) and Telangana (15,329). For apprentices engaged in AI & ML under NAPS, Karnataka leads with 1,414 engaged and 129 certified, followed by Telangana (827 engaged, 527 certified) and Maharashtra (344 engaged, 22 certified). The total across all states shows 39,821 trained/oriented and 25,655 certified under PMKVY 4.0, 86,395 enrollments in CTS New Age Courses, and 3,175 apprentices engaged with 855 certified in AI/ML roles under NAPS over three years.