India has reached a pivotal moment in its artificial intelligence evolution, with Microsoft announcing significant progress in its nationwide mission to prepare the country's workforce for an AI-driven future. The tech giant revealed that over 5.6 million Indians have already received AI training since January 2025, marking substantial advancement toward its goal of skilling 10 million citizens by 2030.
Building an Inclusive AI Future
Puneet Chandok, President of Microsoft India and South Asia, emphasized that India stands at a defining juncture in its AI journey. What distinguishes this moment is the nation's commitment to making AI opportunities inclusive for all citizens. Microsoft views skilling as the fundamental building block of this transformation, combining India's massive talent pool with its robust digital infrastructure.
The company has established crucial partnerships with the Government of India, specifically working with the Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship (MSDE) and the Directorate General of Training (DGT). This collaboration focuses on embedding AI learning directly into vocational institutions and local communities across the country.
Real Impact Through Vocational Training
Microsoft provided a concrete example of their program's success through Satyendra Kumar, one of more than 350 students who have completed the specialized 'AI Programming Assistant' micro-degree. This one-year program is currently being offered across 33 National Skill Training Institutes (NSTIs) throughout India.
The initiative represents a strategic partnership between Microsoft and the Directorate General of Training (DGT) at the Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship (MSDE). This alliance is accelerating India's mission to equip young people with the necessary skills to thrive in an economy increasingly dominated by artificial intelligence.
Earlier this year, Microsoft made a substantial commitment to train 10 million Indians in AI capabilities by 2030. The company's latest figures demonstrate remarkable progress, with over 5.6 million individuals already trained since the program's announcement in January 2025.
Government and Industry Collaboration
Jayant Chaudhary, Minister of State for Skill Development & Entrepreneurship, highlighted the critical role private technology companies like Microsoft are playing in modernizing India's educational infrastructure. He noted that collaborations with industry leaders are helping establish AI laboratories, enhance curriculum development, and create practical learning environments aligned with current industry requirements.
As artificial intelligence continues to reshape global work environments, Microsoft acknowledges that its skilling approach must continuously evolve to match the rapid pace of technological innovation. The company has also introduced Microsoft Elevate, a comprehensive program designed to provide educational institutions, nonprofit organizations, and workforce development groups with technology solutions, essential skills, and valuable insights to empower individuals in the emerging AI economy.
This vocational skilling initiative becomes increasingly vital when considering India's rapidly expanding AI market. The program represents more than just another corporate social responsibility project—it's a nationwide movement to build a workforce prepared for the technological challenges and opportunities of tomorrow.
