The Skilling for AI Readiness (SOAR) program in India represents a strategic initiative by the Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship (MSDE) to integrate artificial intelligence competencies into India's educational framework. The program was launched in July 2025. SOAR’s Mission: Empowering the Future Foster AI awareness: The SOAR initiative prioritises cultivating AI literacy among school students and educators. By introducing foundational AI concepts, such as machine learning (ML) basics and ethical AI use, the program aims to spark curiosity and aspiration among young learners, preparing them for a tech-driven future. For educators, SOAR provides specialised training to incorporate AI modules into existing curricula, ensuring effective delivery and alignment with industry needs. Support Economic Self-reliance: SOAR strategically supports India’s vision of economic self-reliance (Atmanirbhar Bharat) by equipping youth with skills for high-demand sectors like IT, digital innovation, and AI-driven industries. The initiative aligns with national priorities under flagship schemes like PMKVY 4.0, which focuses on skilling for emerging technologies to enhance employability and entrepreneurship. Build a Tech-driven India: SOAR’s long-term vision is to position India as a global leader in AI by preparing its youth for AI-driven careers and entrepreneurial ventures. By fostering a robust ecosystem of AI-literate students and educators, the initiative aims to create a pipeline of skilled professionals for roles in AI development, data analytics, and tech innovation. Key Takeaways Skilling for AI Readiness (SOAR) targets school students from class 6 to class 12 and educators to enable a future-ready India in this increasingly digital world. SOAR incorporates 3 targeted 15-hour modules for students and one independent 45-hour module for educators, focusing on topics like ethical AI use and basic concepts of machine learning. SOAR: Relevance and Expected Outcomes Strategic Alignment with Skill India Mission: SOAR supports the Skill India Mission by providing targeted modules for students, equipping the youth with essential digital skills to enhance employability and productivity in AI-driven sectors. Contribution to Viksit Bharat Vision: The program advances India's vision of a developed nation by 2047 through AI for All initiatives. This fosters a tech-savvy workforce that leverages AI to boost innovation and global competitiveness, as emphasised in national skill development strategies. Promotion of Digital Inclusion: SOAR bridges the urban-rural digital divide by integrating AI training into accessible platforms like the Skill India Digital Hub. This ensures equitable access to digital skills across government and private schools, thereby empowering marginalised communities. AI-Aware Students and Trained Educators: SOAR aims to produce AI-aware students capable of ethical AI application and train educators across government and private schools in enhancing teaching methodologies and ensuring widespread adoption of AI in classrooms. Boosting AI Career Interest and Narrowing Skill Gaps: The SOAR program is projected to increase youth interest in AI careers through hands-on skilling. It also narrows the urban-rural gap in digital competencies by providing inclusive training and enabling access to high-demand tech skills.