Government to Support PhD Fellows, Graduates, and Postgraduates for AI Talent Pool Creation.

The Indian government plans to support 500 PhD fellows, 5,000 postgraduates, and 8,000 undergraduates to create a robust AI talent pool. The government will also set up AI labs in non-metro cities and provide infrastructure expansion to support the skilling drive.

The Indian government is set to bolster its AI capabilities by supporting 500 PhD fellows, 5,000 postgraduates, and 8,000 undergraduates to create a robust AI talent pool. Additionally, the government plans to establish AI labs in non-metro cities and expand infrastructure to support this skilling drive [1].

In a written reply to the Rajya Sabha, Minister of State for Electronics and IT Jitin Prasada stated that India's AI strategy aims to position India as a global leader in artificial intelligence and establish a robust and inclusive AI ecosystem. The government will provide support for 500 PhD fellows, 5,000 postgraduates, and 8,000 undergraduates to create a formidable AI talent pool [1].

This initiative will be supported by a significant expansion of infrastructure beyond metropolitan areas. IndiaAI, in collaboration with NIELIT, has identified 27 IndiaAI Data and AI labs in Tier 2 and Tier 3 cities across the country. Additionally, state/UTs have nominated 174 ITIs/Polytechnics for setting up IndiaAI Data and AI labs [1].

Foundational courses on Data and AI, such as Data Annotation and Data Curation, approved by NCVET have been launched in these labs to make the future workforce AI-ready [1].

In a separate development, Infosys has inaugurated a new Center for Advanced AI, Cybersecurity, and Space Technology at its Hubballi Development Center in Karnataka. This state-of-the-art facility is part of Infosys' global network of 'Living Labs', designed to accelerate innovation and leverage emerging technologies for clients worldwide [2].

The new center will specialize in advanced digital solutions such as AI, cybersecurity, engineering services, SAP, and space technology. It will serve clients across various industries, including manufacturing, financial services, retail, and healthcare [2]. This expansion is expected to boost economic growth in North Karnataka and strengthen the region's position as an innovation hub [2].

The government's support for these initiatives underscores its commitment to fostering AI talent and innovation across the country, aligning with the broader vision of promoting technological innovation and economic development.

References:
[1] https://money.rediff.com/news/market/ai-talent-pool-govt-support-for-phds-more/31667920250808
[2] https://theoutpost.ai/news-story/infosys-launches-advanced-ai-cybersecurity-and-space-tech-centre-in-hubballi-karnataka-18800/