India to Introduce AI in School Curriculum from Class 3 Starting 2026–27

The Indian government is taking a significant step toward preparing students for the AI-driven future. Starting in the 2026–27 academic year, the Education Ministry plans to introduce Artificial Intelligence (AI) as part of the school curriculum from Class 3 onwards. This initiative aims to equip students and teachers with essential AI skills, ensuring India’s future workforce is prepared for the digital economy.

Current AI Education in CBSE Schools

At present, AI is already being taught in over 18,000 CBSE-affiliated schools as a skill subject:

• Classes 6 to 8: AI is offered through a 15-hour module.

• Classes 9 to 12: Students can opt for AI as an optional subject.

This early exposure has laid the foundation for a more comprehensive AI curriculum that will now extend to younger students from Class 3, ensuring a gradual and effective introduction of AI concepts from an early age.

Plans for Curriculum Integration from Class 3

The Education Ministry has announced plans to integrate AI across all grade levels starting in 2026–27. Officials are currently developing a comprehensive framework to guide schools on implementing AI education effectively.

Sanjay Kumar, School Education Secretary, stated:

“We need to move quickly so that both students and teachers are equipped to engage with this technology over the next two to three years. The challenge lies in reaching more than one crore teachers nationwide and preparing them to teach AI-related concepts. The CBSE is developing the framework for this integration.”

Teacher Training and Pilot Programs

To ensure smooth implementation, the Ministry has already launched pilot projects to train teachers in using AI tools for lesson planning and classroom activities. The initiative focuses on empowering educators to integrate AI seamlessly into their teaching practices.

Kumar emphasized,

“Our goal is to prepare both learners and educators for the digital economy.”

These efforts are expected to help teachers understand AI technologies, develop AI-based teaching strategies, and effectively deliver AI education to students across the country.

AI and Future Workforce Readiness

The announcement coincided with the launch of a NITI Aayog report on AI and employment. The report highlighted that while around two million traditional jobs could be displaced due to AI and automation, up to eight million new opportunities may emerge if the right skills ecosystem is established.

It stressed the importance of early AI education to prepare students for future careers, ensuring they can adapt to evolving job requirements in the AI-driven economy.

Collaboration and Infrastructure for AI Skills

The NITI Aayog report also recommended stronger collaboration between the proposed India AI Talent Mission and the ongoing India AI Mission, along with partnerships among academia, government, and industry.

Key aspects highlighted include:

• Building robust compute infrastructure for AI education.

• Ensuring accessible data for practical AI learning.

• Creating a skilled workforce of future innovators and researchers.

These measures are aimed at nurturing talent capable of advancing India’s AI ecosystem while safeguarding the workforce from potential disruptions.

India’s Vision for Leadership in AI

According to the report, India’s leadership in the AI-driven global economy depends on timely, coordinated action across sectors. By implementing AI education from primary school onwards, the country can:

• Prepare the next generation for digital innovation.

• Promote research and development in AI technologies.

• Enhance employability and economic growth through skilled talent.

The unified efforts of government, academia, and industry are seen as crucial for establishing India as a global AI hub while protecting and upskilling the workforce.

Conclusion

Introducing AI education from Class 3 marks a transformative step in India’s education system. With a comprehensive curriculum, teacher training, and ecosystem support, India is positioning its students and educators for success in an AI-driven world. This initiative not only enhances learning outcomes but also strengthens India’s potential as a global leader in AI innovation.