President Droupadi Murmu on Thursday announced the ‘Skill the Nation Challenge’, calling on citizens, educators, professionals, policymakers, and young learners to participate in India’s artificial intelligence learning initiative through the SOAR (Skilling for AI Readiness) course on the Skill India Digital Hub.
The President described the initiative as an important step towards building future-ready capabilities in artificial intelligence and strengthening India’s transition towards a technologically empowered and inclusive society.
SOAR, a flagship programme of the Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship, was launched in July 2025 to make AI learning accessible through structured micro-credential courses. The programme is designed for school students, educators, working professionals, and lifelong learners.
According to the ministry, over the past six months more than 1.59 lakh learners across the country have enrolled in SOAR’s AI courses, with several completing certifications focused on AI awareness, understanding, and application.
Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Skill Development and Entrepreneurship and Minister of State for Education Jayant Chaudhary completed the SOAR ‘AI to be Aware’ module and nominated Andhra Pradesh IT minister Nara Lokesh, Prasar Bharati chief executive officer Gaurav Dwivedi, and All India Chess Federation president Nitin Narang to take up the challenge.
Speaking on the occasion, Chaudhary said the initiative aims to encourage citizens to build confidence in AI and prepare for an AI-enabled future. He said leadership participation was intended to inspire wider adoption of AI learning across the country.
During the event, certificates were presented to 17 students from PM SHRI Schools, Kendriya Vidyalayas, and Jawahar Navodaya Vidyalayas across Delhi, Uttar Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan, Gujarat, Haryana, and Himachal Pradesh, recognising their completion of the AI course.
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