The Union Budget presented by Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman on Saturday prioritised the integration of modern technologies, including Artificial Intelligence (AI), into India’s education sector, said Maharashtra’s Higher and Technical Education Minister Chandrakant Patil.
“This budget brings opportunities for all sectors of society, from farmers to students, with a strong focus on digital education. The allocation of AI resources and support for higher education is a significant step towards making India a global economic powerhouse,” said Patil.
The central government has allocated Rs1.28 lakh crore for education in the Union Budget, with Rs50,067 crore earmarked for higher education.
Patil also highlighted a significant focus on research, with the introduction of 10,000 fellowships, and plans to set up 50,000 Atal Tinkering Labs over the next five years to foster scientific curiosity among students.
Notably, the budget includes a proposal to establish AI research centres to enhance technology development and drive industry-focused research, laying a strong foundation for AI growth in India’s economy.
“This is a pivotal step towards a more technology-driven and digitally empowered nation,” Patil added.
