NSDC AWS India Cloud AI Skilling Initiative

On August 23, 2026, the India — National Skill Development Corporation (NSDC), under India's India — Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship, and Cultus Education launched a nationwide cloud and artificial intelligence skilling initiative in collaboration with Amazon — Amazon Web Services (AWS). The program aims to provide foundational AI and cloud literacy to 150,000 learners across all states and union territories, with a focus on youth in Tier-II and Tier-III cities and underserved communities. Additionally, 10,000 candidates will undergo intensive workforce training through the AWS re/Start program, which includes instructor-led sessions, hands-on labs, and certification exams, connecting participants with employment opportunities at local organizations. The initiative is delivered entirely online through Cultus Education, overcoming barriers such as limited local infrastructure and lack of employer networks. The program will conclude with a National Hackathon where participants present projects to prospective employers. The launch was attended by NSDC COO Prashanth and supported by Minister Jayant Chaudhary, who emphasized the initiative's role in building an inclusive, skilled workforce aligned with the Viksit Bharat 2047 vision. This initiative follows Prime Minister Narendra Modi's Independence Day announcement to provide AI skills training to one crore youth over the next year.