
IndiaAI, an independent business division under the Digital India Corporation, has signed a strategic Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Microsoft to boost artificial intelligence (AI) development and adoption in India. The partnership aims to empower communities, foster innovation, and establish India as a global leader in AI applications.
Key Highlights:
- Skilling 500,000 Individuals:
- Students, educators, developers, government officials, and women entrepreneurs will receive AI training by 2026.
- AI Catalysts – Centers of Excellence:
- Promoting rural AI innovation in Tier 2 and Tier 3 cities.
- Equipping 100,000 AI innovators and developers through hackathons, community building, and an AI marketplace.
- AI Productivity Labs:
- To be set up in 20 National Skill Training Institutes (NSTIs) and NIELIT centers across 10 states.
- Training 20,000 educators and empowering 100,000 students with foundational AI courses in 200 Industrial Training Institutes (ITIs).
- Startups Empowerment:
- Microsoft’s Founders Hub program will support up to 1,000 AI startups with Azure credits, business resources, and mentorship.
- Linguistic Diversity:
- Development of foundational AI models with Indic language support to address India’s unique linguistic and cultural requirements.
- Responsible AI and Safety Institute:
- Collaboration on frameworks, standards, and evaluation metrics to support responsible AI development.
- Establishment of an AI Safety Institute in India.
Strategic Impact:
The partnership underscores IndiaAI’s commitment to skilling, innovation, and responsible AI practices. It aims to address large-scale citizen challenges, empower underserved communities, and foster entrepreneurship. By leveraging Microsoft’s technological expertise, India is set to become a global AI leader.
Quote from IndiaAI Mission CEO:
“By skilling 500,000 individuals and fostering innovation, we are advancing India’s AI ecosystem and driving inclusive growth,” said Shri Abhishek Singh, CEO of IndiaAI Mission.