President Murmu Launches #SkilltheNation, Calls AI Key to India’s Growth

Bhubaneswar: President Droupadi Murmu on Thursday launched the #SkilltheNation challenge at a function held at the Rashtrapati Bhavan Cultural Centre, underscoring the transformative role of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in shaping India’s future. She also virtually inaugurated the IGNOU regional centre and a Skill Centre at Rairangpur in Odisha’s Mayurbhanj district.

Addressing the gathering, the President said that Artificial Intelligence is rapidly reshaping economies and societies across the world by transforming learning methods, work environments, access to modern services, and solutions to global challenges. For a young nation like India, she said, AI is not merely a technology but a powerful opportunity for positive and inclusive change.

Emphasising India’s people-centric approach to technology, President Murmu said that innovation should empower citizens, promote inclusion, and expand opportunities for all sections of society. She stressed that the use of AI must help bridge social, economic, and technological divides, ensuring its benefits reach people of all backgrounds and age groups, particularly those from marginalised communities.

The President expressed satisfaction that students are actively preparing themselves for a future filled with possibilities. She urged them to use technology, knowledge, and skills to serve society, solve real-world problems, and empower others. She also appreciated Members of Parliament who have completed AI learning modules, noting that by upskilling themselves, they have demonstrated leadership through learning.

Highlighting AI’s economic potential, President Murmu said Artificial Intelligence is emerging as a major growth driver for the Indian economy. In the coming decade, AI is expected to play a significant role in boosting GDP, employment, and overall productivity. She added that skills such as data science, AI engineering, and data analytics will be crucial in developing a strong national AI talent pool.

She further stated that the government, in collaboration with institutions, industry partners, and academia, is working to ensure that India not only adopts new technologies but also helps shape a responsible and ethical technological future. Calling for collective commitment, she urged stakeholders to contribute towards building a developed India and making the country a global knowledge superpower in line with the National Education Policy.

The event, organised by the Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship, reflects the government’s continued commitment to preparing India’s workforce for an AI-driven future and fostering a tech-enabled, inclusive, and prosperous nation.