Government Launches AI Skilling Programme with Google and YouTube for Media Sector

The Ministry of Information and Broadcasting has launched a national artificial intelligence (AI) skilling initiative on March 23, 2026. The programme is being implemented in partnership with Google and YouTube.

It aims to train 15,000 individuals across the media and creative sectors. The initiative focuses on equipping participants with skills relevant to evolving digital and AI-driven workflows.

Programme Overview and Objectives

The initiative was launched by Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw as part of efforts to strengthen digital capabilities. It targets creators, media professionals, students, and developers across the country.

The programme will focus on areas such as animation, visual effects, gaming, and comics (AVGC). It also aims to enhance expertise in media technology and AI-enabled production tools.

Implementation and Institutional Role

The programme is being implemented by the Indian Institute of Creative Technologies (IICT). It is working in collaboration with Google and YouTube to deliver structured training.

IICT will oversee programme design, outreach, and nationwide execution. The institute has also partnered with industry stakeholders to develop the curriculum.

Scholarships and Training Structure

A total of 15,000 scholarships will be offered under the programme to support advanced AI skill development. The training is structured in multiple stages, providing curated courses and guided learning modules.

The initiative is designed to improve accessibility and reach participants across diverse regions. By lowering entry barriers, the scholarship model aims to enable large-scale skill development with structured learning pathways.

Phase-Wise Learning Approach

The programme will be implemented in two phases, beginning with a foundational learning stage from March 23 to June 30, 2026. This phase will cover core AI concepts through courses such as AI Essentials, Prompting Essentials and Introduction to Generative AI.

The second phase, running from July to December 2026, will focus on hands-on, project-based specialisation for the creative sector. It will include training on storytelling, YouTube practices and advanced tools like Gemini, Veo and Vertex AI.

Read More: Meta Enters $27 Billion AI Infrastructure Agreement with Nebius.

Conclusion

The AI skilling initiative marks a structured effort to build capabilities in India’s media and creative sectors. With 15,000 scholarships and phased training, the programme aims to support large-scale skill development.

Collaboration with Google and YouTube brings technical and platform expertise. The initiative reflects the growing integration of AI in digital content ecosystems.

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