In a decisive step toward creating a digitally empowered workforce, Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath has launched ‘AI Pragya’ (Artificial Intelligence Programme for Resourcefulness, Awareness, Growth, and Youth Advancement). The initiative aims to provide advanced tech training to 10 lakh citizens across the state, preparing them for high-demand jobs in the digital economy.
Under this programme, participants will receive training in emerging technologies such as Artificial Intelligence, Machine Learning, Data Analytics, Cybersecurity, and more. The effort seeks to boost technical capabilities across critical sectors like education, healthcare, agriculture, and rural development, creating a ripple effect of digital transformation.
The Centre for e-Governance (CEG), operating under the state’s IT and Electronics Department, will serve as the nodal agency for implementation. To ensure quality training and real-world applicability, the state is partnering with leading tech giants including Microsoft, Intel, Amazon, Google, HCL, and Wadhwani Foundation.
Significantly, AI Pragya is supported by the World Bank, as part of its backing for the UP AGREES (Uttar Pradesh Agriculture Growth and Rural Enterprise Ecosystem Strengthening) project. The World Bank has extended a ₹2,737 crore loan to the Uttar Pradesh government, spread over six years, to boost digital and rural development initiatives.
This move comes at a time when governments at both the state and central levels are placing heavy emphasis on digital upskilling to meet the demands of AI-driven innovation. Alongside Uttar Pradesh, states like Telangana and Tamil Nadu have launched programs such as AI for Youth and T-AIM (Telangana AI Mission) to nurture tech talent.
At the national level, the Centre continues to scale digital skilling through flagship schemes like PM Kaushal Vikas Yojana (PMKVY), National Programme on AI, and FutureSkills PRIME. Recently, the central government earmarked ₹1,000 crore under the Digital India programme and another ₹2,000 crore for the IndiaAI Mission to support AI-focused research, startups, and capacity building. Additionally, ₹500 crore has been allocated to establish an AI Centre of Excellence for the education sector.
So far, nearly 19,774 individuals have already undergone AI training under PMKVY 4.0, according to a February 2025 update.
The launch of AI Pragya also aligns with Uttar Pradesh’s push to accelerate its startup ecosystem, which now includes over 14,000 DPIIT-recognised startups. With a favorable investment climate, rising digital infrastructure, and strong policy support, the state has attracted $8.6 billion in funding since 2014. Noida has emerged as a prominent startup and innovation hub within the region.
Through initiatives like AI Pragya, Uttar Pradesh is not only working to close the digital divide but is also laying the foundation for a robust, future-ready economy.
