Skilling for AI Readiness (SOAR Program)

Artificial Intelligence (AI) is no longer a futuristic concept — it’s transforming industries, education, and everyday life. Recognising this, the Government of India has launched the SOAR Program (Skilling for AI Readiness) to prepare India’s youth for an AI-driven future. Announced by the Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship (MSDE) in July 2025, the SOAR Program aims to integrate AI education and training into India’s school and skilling ecosystem.

This initiative aligns with the Skill India Mission and the vision of Viksit Bharat @ 2047, ensuring that India’s workforce is not only employable but globally competitive in emerging technologies like AI, data science, and machine learning.

What is the SOAR Program?

The SOAR Program, or Skilling for AI Readiness, is a national initiative targeting students from classes 6 to 12 and educators across India. It introduces foundational knowledge of Artificial Intelligence (AI), ethical AI use, and machine learning principles through short, structured learning modules.

SOAR Program at a Glance

Parameter	Details
Launched by	Ministry of Skill Development & Entrepreneurship (MSDE)
Launch Date	July 2025
Target Group	Students (Class 6–12) & Educators
Modules	3 modules (15 hours each for students), 1 module (45 hours) for educators
Budget Allocation	₹500 crore (Union Budget 2025–26)
Key Focus	AI literacy, machine learning basics, and ethical AI usage
Training Framework	Aligned with Skill India Mission and PMKVY 4.0
Expected Outcome	AI-aware students and AI-trained educators nationwide

Objectives of the SOAR Program

1. Foster AI Awareness
   • Introduce students to AI fundamentals and its real-world applications.
   • Promote curiosity and innovation through project-based learning.
2. Empower Educators
   • Train teachers in AI pedagogy and ethical use of AI tools.
   • Build capacity to integrate AI lessons into school curricula.
3. Support Atmanirbhar Bharat
   • Equip youth with AI-based skills for self-reliance and digital entrepreneurship.
   • Bridge the skill gap between education and industry.
4. Drive Economic Self-Reliance
   • Strengthen India’s position in AI, robotics, and data analytics.
   • Encourage local innovation to reduce dependency on imported tech.

Key Features of the SOAR Program

1. AI Curriculum for Students

• 3 modular courses (15 hours each) covering:
  • AI basics & data handling
  • Introduction to machine learning
  • Ethical and responsible use of AI
• Hands-on learning using real-world examples from agriculture, education, and healthcare.

2. 45-hour Educator Training

• Focused on curriculum design, classroom integration, and AI tools.
• Enables teachers to become AI facilitators and mentors for students.

3. Centre of Excellence in AI (Education)

• A ₹500 crore national hub for research and innovation in AI for education.
• Promotes “From Chalkboards to Chipsets” — integrating technology into every classroom.

4. Integration with Skill India Digital Hub (SIDH)

• The SOAR modules are hosted on SIDH, ensuring accessibility across schools in both urban and rural India.
• Encourages digital inclusion by providing free online access to resources.

SOAR and Skill India Mission

The SOAR Program builds upon Skill India Mission initiatives like:

• PMKVY 4.0 (Pradhan Mantri Kaushal Vikas Yojana): Emphasizes short-term training in emerging technologies.
• NAPS 2 (National Apprenticeship Promotion Scheme): Offers AI-related apprenticeships such as AI Data Engineer and Machine Learning Engineer.
• ITIs & NSTIs: Introduce AI skill modules for vocational learners.

Together, these programs create a continuous skilling pathway from school education → vocational training → employment.

Budget and Implementation

• Union Budget 2025–26 Allocation: ₹500 crore for the Centre of Excellence in AI for Education.
• Over 1,480 apprentices trained in AI-related roles (FY 2022–2026).
• Collaborative partnerships with CBSE, AICTE, IITs, and industry leaders ensure hands-on implementation and scalability.

Expected Outcomes of SOAR

1. AI-Aware Students: Capable of using AI responsibly and creatively.
2. Trained Educators: Able to integrate AI topics effectively into classrooms.
3. Bridged Skill Gap: Reduced digital divide between urban and rural learners.
4. Global Competitiveness: A workforce ready for AI-driven industries.
5. Economic Inclusion: Empowering students from marginalized backgrounds with future-ready skills.

Why the SOAR Program Matters for Competitive Exams

For UPSC, APPSC, SSC, and State PSC aspirants, the SOAR Program is significant under:

• Science & Technology (GS Paper 3)
• Government Schemes & Policies
• Digital India and Skill Development Initiatives

Possible UPSC/APPSC Questions:

• What is the objective of the SOAR Program 2025?
• How does the SOAR initiative align with the Skill India Mission?
• Discuss the role of AI in transforming India’s education system.

The SOAR Program 2025 is not just an educational reform — it’s a strategic national movement toward AI readiness and digital inclusion. By nurturing AI-literate students and teachers, India is laying the groundwork for a Viksit Bharat @2047, where innovation, technology, and inclusivity drive national progress.

Through the combined strength of Skill India, Digital India, and Atmanirbhar Bharat, the SOAR initiative is shaping a generation of AI-powered changemakers, ensuring India leads the global knowledge economy of the future.

FAQs on SOAR Program

Source: PIB