India’s Ministry of Education has officially launched the National AI Classroom Program, aiming to integrate foundational artificial intelligence learning into Grades 6–12 across 12,000 government and private schools by 2026. The initiative focuses on AI literacy, ethical use, prompt engineering, machine learning basics, and robotics.

The program includes free digital courseware, teacher training modules, and hands-on AI labs. “We are preparing students for an AI-augmented economy, where cognitive and digital skills are core competencies,” stated a senior ministry official.

Pilot studies conducted in Bengaluru and Hyderabad schools showed a 27% improvement in computational thinking skills and 40% growth in student interest toward STEM careers. Additionally, the program is aligned with NEP-2020, emphasizing experiential learning and technology-enabled pedagogy.

With global education systems rapidly embracing AI-powered frameworks, India positions itself as a leader in scalable, inclusive AI schooling. Experts predict this will help bridge the digital skill gap and make students globally competitive.

Takeaway: India accelerates AI skill development in school education.