The nationwide initiative was launched by the National Skill Development Corporation (NSDC) in collaboration with Cultus Education and Amazon Web Services (AWS). The program aims to train 150,000 individuals in the fundamentals of cloud technologies and artificial intelligence (AI), with 10,000 participants receiving intensive, job-ready training.
The Ministry of Skills Development and Entrepreneurship (MSDE) supports this initiative. The program targets youth residing in second and third-tier cities across all states and territories of the Union. The entire learning process will be conducted online through Cultus Education, which is the NSDC's selected partner for implementing the program.
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The Ministry stated in its official announcement that the goal of NSDC and Cultus, utilizing AWS re/Start programs and AWS digital learning content, is to address the challenges faced by youth in second and third-tier cities. These challenges include limited access to globally recognized technical training, a small number of connections with technology employers, and a lack of necessary certifications for cloud technology and AI vacancies.
NSDC operates as a public-private partnership under the aegis of the Ministry of Skills Development and Entrepreneurship, whose mandate is to promote skill development and support India's professional training ecosystem.
Under the program, 150,000 learners will gain access to AWS digital content covering basic knowledge in cloud technologies and AI. Of this group, 10,000 participants will undergo the AWS re/Start program. This structured program includes studying cloud infrastructure, networking, security, programming, databases, and AI fundamentals.
Training under the re/Start program will involve instructor-led sessions, practical exercises, and mentorship. Participants who successfully complete the program will receive an AWS certificate and the opportunity to interview with local employers.
Furthermore, the initiative includes hosting a national hackathon where participants can present their projects in cloud technologies and AI.
Jayant Chaudhary, the Union Minister (Independent Charge) for Skill Development and Entrepreneurship, noted that as India strives to become a global hub for innovation, technology, and talent, it is crucial to provide youth from second and third-tier cities with the skills needed for future employment. He emphasized that such initiatives will play a key role in shaping an inclusive, skilled, and future-ready workforce, which is a central element of the path to Viksit Bharat 2047.
This development comes amid the growing significance of AI and digital skills across many employment sectors, as employers increasingly emphasize workers' technological readiness.
This development occurred shortly after Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced a plan during his Independence Day speech on August 15th to provide AI training to one crore youth over the next year.
The program will be delivered online via Cultus Education, allowing students from second and third-tier cities to participate without needing to relocate. Initially, students will access AWS digital content, and then those selected for the intensive program will undergo re/Start training.
Cultus Education is an education and upskilling company that offers online learning and workforce development programs, including technology-focused training. The initiative aims to bridge gaps in access to technical training and employer networks among youth in smaller towns. Participants will be trained in areas such as cloud computing, networking, and security, with the intensive training component linked to certification and employer interviews.