Overview

• Government projects need for one million skilled AI professionals by 2026 as the sector approaches a $28.8 billion valuation in 2025.
• AICTE has approved 1.49 million B.Tech seats for 2024–25, marking a 16% rise over four years driven by over 50% growth in AI/ML, Data Science, Cybersecurity, Cloud Computing and Blockchain disciplines.
• Under the IndiaAI Future Skills initiative, the government is expanding AI curricula across undergraduate, postgraduate and PhD programs, offering fellowships to full-time scholars at top NIRF-ranked institutes.
• The Indian Institute of Technology Madras has launched five free AI courses on its SWAYAM Plus platform to broaden access to learners from diverse academic backgrounds.
• New IndiaAI Data Labs are being established in Tier 2 and Tier 3 cities, with a model lab at NIELIT Delhi to provide hands-on AI training and research infrastructure outside major tech hubs.