Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh – In a landmark initiative to bridge the digital divide and boost youth employability, the Government of Uttar Pradesh has launched ‘AI-PRAGYA’ (Artificial Intelligence Programme for Resourcefulness, Awareness, Growth, and Youth Advancement). The visionary programme was inaugurated in the presence of Hon’ble Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath and World Bank President Ajay Banga.

The AI-PRAGYA initiative aims to equip 10 lakh (1 million) citizens of Uttar Pradesh with advanced digital skills in domains such as artificial intelligence (AI), machine learning, data analytics, and cybersecurity. This effort is part of the state’s broader agenda to position itself as a digital skills hub and nurture a thriving startup ecosystem.

Speaking at the launch, Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath emphasised the significance of the programme in the context of global technological advancement. “AI-PRAGYA is a transformative step towards preparing Uttar Pradesh’s youth for the future. It will unlock new employment avenues and enhance efficiency across key sectors such as governance, agriculture, education, and healthcare,” he stated.

The programme will be executed through the Centre for e-Governance (CEG) Society under the Department of IT and Electronics, with district-level implementation overseen by District Magistrates. According to Neha Jain, Managing Director, UPDESCO, the initiative involves strategic collaboration with global technology leaders, including Microsoft, Intel, HCL, Amazon, Google, Wadhwani Foundation, and 1M1B. These partners will contribute to the delivery of high-quality training and ensure measurable outcomes.

Principal Secretary, IT and Electronics, Anurag Yadav noted, “This programme has been meticulously designed to empower individuals from all social and economic backgrounds. From farmers to teachers, students to SHG women, the initiative ensures inclusivity and access to future-ready skills.”

Participants will receive certifications upon completion of training modules, enhancing their employability and fostering entrepreneurship. A particular focus will be placed on rural outreach, with efforts to train individuals operating Public Service Centres (PSCs), members of Self-Help Groups (SHGs), village leaders, and marginal farmers.

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AI-PRAGYA is aligned with the World Bank-supported UP AGREES (Uttar Pradesh Agriculture Growth and Rural Enterprise Ecosystem Strengthening) project. The World Bank has extended financial assistance of ₹2,737 crore over six years to support such digital and rural transformation initiatives.

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