“India’s future workforce must be AI confident”: Murmu launches Skill the Nation Challenge
President Droupadi Murmu on Thursday launched the Skill the Nation Challenge.
New Delhi, Jan 2 : President Droupadi Murmu on Thursday launched the Skill the Nation Challenge, calling on citizens, policymakers, educators, professionals and youth to join India’s artificial intelligence learning movement by enrolling in the SOAR course on the Skill India Digital Hub.
The challenge aims to expand AI awareness and build future-ready capabilities as part of India’s broader push towards a technologically empowered and inclusive society.
The initiative is anchored in SOAR (Skilling for AI Readiness), a flagship programme of the Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship launched in July 2025. The programme offers structured micro-credential courses in AI for school students, teachers, working professionals and lifelong learners, with a focus on ethical, responsible and accessible use of artificial intelligence.
According to official data, more than 1.59 lakh learners have enrolled in the SOAR AI course over the past six months, with thousands completing certifications and gaining practical exposure to AI concepts and applications.
Marking leadership participation, Skill Development and Entrepreneurship Minister Jayant Chaudhary completed the SOAR “AI to be Aware” module and nominated Andhra Pradesh IT Minister Nara Lokesh Rao, Prasar Bharati CEO Gaurav Dwivedi, and All India Chess Federation president Nitin Narang to take up the challenge, signalling a wider national push for AI literacy.
Speaking at the event, Chaudhary said India’s workforce must move beyond basic digital skills. “India’s future workforce must not only be digitally aware but AI confident,” he said, describing SOAR as a national mission to build confidence, capability and curiosity around artificial intelligence across regions and demographics.
A group of 17 students from PM SHRI Schools, Kendriya Vidyalayas and Jawahar Navodaya Vidyalayas from seven states received AI course certificates at the event.
The initiative has also seen participation from Parliament, with 15 Members of Parliament completing the SOAR AI module, reflecting growing institutional engagement with AI readiness at the national level.
