IndiaAI, an Independent Business Division (IBD) under the Digital India Corporation, has partnered with Microsoft through a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to drive the adoption and development of artificial intelligence (AI) across India. The collaboration aims to align with the objectives of the IndiaAI Mission and bolster India’s AI capabilities. As part of the partnership, Microsoft will work with IndiaAI to skill 500,000 individuals, including students, educators, developers, government officials, and women entrepreneurs, by 2026. The initiative will also establish AI Catalysts in Tier II and Tier III cities, nurturing 100,000 AI innovators and developers through hackathons and an AI marketplace. Additionally, Microsoft will set up AI Productivity Labs in 20 National Skill Training Institutes (NSTIs)/NIELIT centres across 10 states, training 20,000 educators and empowering 100,000 students through foundational AI courses. The collaboration will also focus on developing AI solutions for critical sectors, with Microsoft Research (MSR) providing expertise.
The partnership aims to position India as a global leader in AI, fostering a sustainable and inclusive AI ecosystem. Microsoft’s Founders Hub program will provide benefits, including Azure credits and mentorship to up to 1,000 AI startups. Both organisations will also collaborate to develop foundational models for Indic languages, create frameworks for responsible AI development, and support the creation of an AI Safety Institute in India. CEO of IndiaAI Mission, Mr. Abhishek Singh, highlighted the initiative’s alignment with the mission’s core pillars of skilling, innovation, and responsible AI development. President of Microsoft India and South Asia, Mr. Puneet Chandok, emphasized that the collaboration will democratise AI access, empower underserved communities, and accelerate AI adoption, ensuring India’s progress toward becoming an AI-first nation.
Disclaimer: This information has been collected through secondary research and IBEF is not responsible for any errors in the same.