The Ministry of Education has announced plans to introduce Artificial Intelligence (AI) as a subject for all students from Class 3 onwards, beginning with the 2026–27 academic session. A detailed framework is currently being prepared to guide the seamless inclusion of AI across grade levels.
“We must act swiftly to ensure both students and teachers are ready to embrace this transformative technology over the next few years,” said School Education Secretary Sanjay Kumar. “The real challenge lies in empowering over one crore teachers across India to confidently teach AI concepts. The Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) is currently designing the integration framework to make this possible,” he added.
A pilot initiative is already underway to train teachers to leverage AI tools for developing lesson plans and classroom materials. According to Kumar, the larger vision is to build digital fluency among learners while equipping educators to thrive in an AI-driven economy.
At present, more than 18,000 CBSE-affiliated schools offer AI as a skill-based subject for students in Classes 6 to 8 through a 15-hour module, while those in Classes 9 to 12 can opt for it as an elective.
Kumar made these announcements during the release of a NITI Aayog report on AI and employment, which revealed that while around two million conventional jobs may be displaced by automation, nearly eight million new opportunities could emerge—provided India establishes the right ecosystem.
The report also urged closer collaboration between the proposed India AI Talent Mission and the ongoing India AI Mission, along with stronger partnerships among academia, government, and industry players. It underscored the importance of accessible data and robust computing infrastructure to build a skilled generation of innovators and researchers.
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Highlighting India’s potential to lead the global AI revolution, the report concluded that coordinated action and timely investment in talent and technology will be crucial for the nation to secure its place as a frontrunner in the AI-powered world.
