Thu Jan 01 08:42:58 UTC 2026: Here’s a summary and a news article version of the provided text:
Summary:
On January 1, 2026, President Droupadi Murmu addressed a Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship program, emphasizing the crucial role of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in India’s future. She highlighted AI’s potential as a growth driver for the economy, contributing to GDP, employment, and productivity. The President stressed the need to ensure AI benefits all sections of society, particularly the underprivileged. She announced initiatives like the #SkillTheNation Challenge and the Skilling for AI Readiness (SOAR) program to promote AI learning, innovation, and a future-ready workforce. She also underscored the government’s commitment to using AI in education and strengthening digital infrastructure to establish India as a global AI leader.
News Article:
India Poised to Become AI Powerhouse: President Murmu Emphasizes Inclusive Growth
New Delhi, January 1, 2026 – President Droupadi Murmu today declared Artificial Intelligence (AI) a critical driver for India’s economic future, urging a focus on inclusive growth to ensure its benefits reach all citizens, especially the underprivileged. Speaking at a program organized by the Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship, President Murmu highlighted AI’s potential to significantly contribute to the nation’s GDP, employment, and overall productivity in the coming decades.
“AI is not just a technique, but a big opportunity for ushering in positive change for a young India,” President Murmu stated. She emphasized the importance of skills like data science, AI engineering, and data analytics in developing a robust AI talent pool.
The President announced several initiatives to promote AI learning and innovation, including the launch of the #SkillTheNation Challenge, a national awareness campaign aimed at encouraging youth participation in future-ready skilling programs. She also conferred Artificial Intelligence certificates upon learners and highlighted the Skilling for AI Readiness (SOAR) program as a key element in building a future-ready workforce.
The government, in collaboration with industry partners and academia, is actively promoting the use of AI in schools to prepare children for technological leadership. AI labs and models are being implemented to foster innovative thinking and future-ready skills.
“The government is strengthening digital public infrastructure, and the India AI Mission is being implemented to establish [the] country as a global AI leader,” President Murmu said. She concluded by calling upon citizens to commit to “Viksit Bharat,” transforming India into a knowledge superpower and a tech-driven, inclusive, and prosperous nation through the New Education Policy.
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