“AI a Tremendous Opportunity for Positive Change”: President Murmu
President launches #SkilltheNation AI Challenge, inaugurates IGNOU centres at Rairangpur
- President Murmu launches #SkilltheNation AI Challenge
- Virtually inaugurates IGNOU Regional and Skill Centres in Odisha
- Says AI is a growth driver for India’s economy and employment
- Urges inclusive, responsible use of emerging technologies
GG News Bureau
New Delhi, 2nd Jan: The President of India, Droupadi Murmu, on Thursday launched the #SkilltheNation AI Challenge and virtually inaugurated the IGNOU Regional Centre and Skill Centre at Rairangpur in Odisha, calling Artificial Intelligence a tremendous opportunity for positive change for a young nation like India.
Addressing the gathering at the Rashtrapati Bhavan Cultural Centre, the President said AI is reshaping economies and societies worldwide, transforming how people learn, work, access services and address global challenges. She emphasised that India’s approach to technology has always been people-centric, focused on inclusion and expansion of opportunities.
The President underlined that the use of AI must aim to bridge social, economic and technological divides and ensure that its benefits reach people from all backgrounds, particularly marginalised communities.
She expressed happiness over students preparing themselves for a future driven by emerging technologies and urged them to use their knowledge and skills to serve society, find solutions and empower others. She also appreciated Members of Parliament who have completed AI learning modules, saying they have set an example of leadership through learning.
Highlighting AI as an emerging growth driver for the Indian economy, the President said it will play a major role in GDP, employment and productivity in the coming decade. She noted that skills such as data science, AI engineering and data analytics will be crucial in building the country’s AI talent pool.
She added that the government, in collaboration with institutions, industry partners and academia, is working to ensure that India not only adopts technology but also shapes a responsible and inclusive future through it. She called upon all stakeholders to work together to make India a knowledge superpower and build a tech-driven, inclusive and prosperous nation in line with the National Education Policy.
The event was organised by the Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship as part of the government’s commitment to preparing India’s workforce for an AI-driven future.