(GIST OF SCIENCE REPORTER) Skilling for AI Readiness (SOAR) Programme

(NOVEMBER-2025)

India is taking a major step toward building an AI-ready generation through the Skilling for AI Readiness (SOAR) programme.

Launched by: Ministry of Skill Development & Entrepreneurship (MSDE) in July 2025.
Aim: Build an AI-ready generation under Skill India Mission (10-year milestone).
Target: Students (Classes 6-12) & teachers nationwide.
Modules: It will offer 3 targeted modules (15 hrs each) for students; 1 module (45 hrs) for teachers focusing on basics of AI, Machine Learning, data literacy, ethics in tech use.
Budget: ₹500 crore for Centre of Excellence in AI for Education.
Goals: To integrate AI into school education & training; promote responsible, innovation-driven digital skills; and to support Atmanirbhar Bharat & Viksit Bharat @2047.
Linked Policies: NEP 2020 (AI as school subject since 2019-20), Pradhan Mantri Kaushal Vikas Yojana (PMKVY) 4.0, the National Apprenticeship Promotion Scheme (NAPS-2), and the Skill India Digital Hub (SIDH).