President Droupadi Murmu Launches SkilltheNation AI Challenge, IGNOU Skill Center

Rairangpur: President Droupadi Murmu on Thursday launched the SkilltheNation AI Challenge and virtually inaugurated an IGNOU Regional Centre and Skill Centre in Rairangpur, Odisha, highlighting the government’s commitment to preparing India’s workforce for an artificial intelligence driven future.

The initiatives were unveiled at a function held at the Rashtrapati Bhavan Cultural Centre, organised by the Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship.

Addressing the gathering, President Murmu said artificial intelligence is rapidly reshaping economies and societies across the world by transforming learning, work processes, service delivery and problem-solving. She described AI as a significant opportunity for India, particularly given the country’s large and youthful population, and emphasised that it should be harnessed as a force for positive and inclusive change.

President Droupadi Murmu AI Challenge Highlights Inclusive Tech Vision

President Murmu said India’s approach to technology has consistently been rooted in empowerment and inclusion. She stressed that artificial intelligence should be deployed in a way that bridges social, economic and technological divides rather than widening them.

Highlighting the need for equitable access, the President underlined that the benefits of emerging technologies must reach people across all sections of society, with special attention to marginalised and underrepresented communities. She said inclusive skilling initiatives are essential to ensure that technological progress translates into shared prosperity.

IGNOU Centres Strengthen Regional Access to Skills and Education

The virtual inauguration of the IGNOU Regional Centre and Skill Centre in Rairangpur was described as a step towards expanding access to higher education and skill development in aspirational and tribal regions. The new facilities are expected to support learners by offering flexible education models and industry-relevant skill programmes.

The President noted that strengthening regional educational infrastructure plays a crucial role in enabling local talent to participate meaningfully in the national and global economy, especially as digital and AI-based skills become increasingly important.

Also Read | OSSSC Forest Guard Recruitment 2026 Notification Released: 943 Forest Guard & Forester Vacancies, 575 Excise Constable Announced

President Droupadi Murmu AI Challenge Emphasises Future-Ready Skills

Welcoming the enthusiasm shown by students in acquiring future-oriented skills, President Murmu urged young learners to use their knowledge and technological capabilities to serve society and solve real-world problems. She also appreciated Members of Parliament who have completed AI learning modules, saying their participation reflects leadership through continuous learning.

She highlighted that artificial intelligence is expected to make a significant contribution to India’s GDP, employment generation and productivity over the coming decade. According to the President, skills such as data science, AI engineering and data analytics will be critical in building a strong domestic talent pool capable of driving innovation and competitiveness.

Aligning AI Skills With National Education Goals

President Murmu said the government, in collaboration with educational institutions, industry and academia, is focused not only on adopting advanced technologies but also on guiding their responsible and ethical use. She called for collective effort to ensure that innovation is aligned with national priorities and societal well-being.

She added that initiatives such as the #SkilltheNation AI Challenge are in line with the National Education Policy and the broader vision of making India a knowledge-driven, inclusive and technologically advanced nation.