Islamabad, Jan 8: Microsoft chairman and CEO Satya Nadella, on Wednesday, announced that the company, in partnership with the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (Meity), will train 500,000 people in rural India in AI skills
The company also announced strategic partnerships with RailTel, Apollo Hospitals, Bajaj Finserv, Mahindra Group and upGrad to help its teams and customers leverage cloud and AI innovations.
However, Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella announced ambitious plans to transform India’s AI landscape during his visit to New Delhi.
Highlights of his announcement include:
- AI Training for 500,000 Individuals
- In collaboration with India AI, Microsoft will train 500,000 people, including students, educators, and women entrepreneurs, by 2026.
- Establishing 20 AI Productivity Labs and National Skills Institutes across 10 states for training 20,000 educators.
- New AI Centers of Excellence
- Launching AI Catalysts to support innovation.
- Supporting 1 lakh AI innovators through hackathons and community-driven initiatives.
- Strategic Partnerships with Leading Organizations
- Collaborations with RailTel, Apollo Hospitals, Bajaj Finserv, Mahindra Group, and upGrad to integrate AI innovations.
- Signed an MoU with India AI for the development of emerging technologies.
- $3 Billion Investment in AI Infrastructure
- Microsoft will invest $3 billion over the next two years to establish data centers and expand its cloud infrastructure in India.
- Commitment to Responsible AI
- Nadella emphasized the need for AI trust and security principles, advocating for transparency in technology use.
- Balanced Regulation Approach
- The Indian government, represented by Jitin Prasada, highlighted its focus on innovation-friendly policies but acknowledged challenges like misinformation and deepfakes.
Although Microsoft’s efforts aim to foster inclusive growth, expand AI skills in rural areas, and strengthen India’s position in the global AI ecosystem. These developments promise significant advancements in technology, innovation, and workforce readiness.
However, Giving detailed information about Microsoft’s artificial intelligence products, Nadella said that the company has created three platforms: Copilot, Copilot and AI stack, as well as Copilot devices.