President Murmu Launches ‘Skill the Nation Challenge’ to Promote AI Learning; 15 MPs Complete SOAR AI Course

New Delhi | January 2, 2026- President of India  Droupadi Murmu has launched the ‘Skill the Nation Challenge’, a nationwide call encouraging citizens to build awareness and skills in artificial intelligence through the government’s SOAR (Skilling for AI Readiness) programme.

The initiative aims to prepare India’s workforce for an AI-driven future by promoting accessible, ethical, and responsible learning in emerging technologies. Addressing stakeholders from education, governance, and industry, the President described the challenge as a vital step toward building a future-ready and inclusive digital society.

The SOAR initiative, introduced by the Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship in July 2025, offers structured micro-learning courses on artificial intelligence through the Skill India Digital Hub (SIDH). Designed for students, teachers, professionals, and lifelong learners, the programme focuses on simplifying AI concepts while encouraging responsible use.

In just six months, the programme has attracted over 1.59 lakh learners across the country, with a significant number successfully completing certifications and applying AI concepts in real-world contexts.

Setting an example from the top, Shri Jayant Chaudhary, Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Skill Development and Entrepreneurship and Minister of State for Education, has completed the ‘AI to be Aware’ module under SOAR.

Following his completion, the Minister nominated several prominent leaders to take up the challenge, including Shri Nara Lokesh Rao, Andhra Pradesh IT Minister; Shri Gaurav Dwivedi, CEO of Prasar Bharati; and Mr. Nitin Narang, President of the All-India Chess Federation, signalling the start of a broader national participation movement.

Speaking on the occasion, Chaudhary said that India’s workforce must move beyond basic digital literacy to become AI-confident. He emphasised that SOAR represents more than a training programme, calling it a national mission to build curiosity, competence, and confidence in artificial intelligence.

The initiative has also received notable support from Parliament, with 15 Members of Parliament completing the SOAR AI course module. Their participation reflects growing recognition within India’s democratic institutions of the importance of AI preparedness in policymaking and governance.

Students Honoured by the President

During the event, the President awarded AI course certificates to 17 students from PM SHRI Schools, Kendriya Vidyalayas, and Jawahar Navodaya Vidyalayas across multiple states, including Delhi, Uttar Pradesh, Rajasthan, Gujarat, Haryana, Madhya Pradesh, and Himachal Pradesh.

Building a Tech-Skilled Nation

The #SkillTheNation Challenge and the SOAR initiative place emerging technologies at the heart of India’s skill development strategy, reinforcing the government’s focus on innovation-led growth, employability, and digital empowerment.

With increasing participation from students, professionals, lawmakers, and institutions, the programme is shaping a nationwide movement aimed at preparing India for the opportunities and challenges of an AI-driven future.