The Indian government has announced a big step to train people in artificial intelligence (AI). At least 10 lakh citizens will receive free AI training through Common Service Centres (CSCs), which work under the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY).

This decision was shared by IT and Electronics Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw. He said that CSCs have already reached almost 90 percent of villages in the country. He added, "If there is any medium capable of reaching every village, it is CSC."

The minister praised the efforts of the village-level entrepreneurs (VLEs) who run these CSCs. He said, "The village-level entrepreneurs (VLEs) across the country have set a remarkable example by delivering the benefits of Digital India to every citizen."

Talking about how digital payments have changed lives, he said, "When the world questioned how a tea seller or a vegetable vendor could use digital payments, today that dream has come true—UPI payments have surpassed Visa transactions. This is the strength of 1.4 billion Indians."

Mr. Vaishnaw also gave examples of two inspiring women—VLE Manjulata from Mayurbhanj district and VLE Rose Angelina from Meghalaya. Both of them learnt digital skills and helped others in their communities.

About Rose, he said, "Amid the scenic hills and remote villages of East and West Khasi Hills in Meghalaya, woman VLE Rose Angelina M. Kharsyntiew has scripted a digital revolution. Through her centre in the Mairang area, she is not only delivering services but also setting an example of transformation, empowerment, and community service."

He also asked all VLEs to start offering IRCTC railway services from their centres.

Minister of State Jitin Prasada said that CSCs have helped reduce the digital divide in India. He said, "The resolve to extend the benefits of Digital India to the last mile of society is being carried forward with the help of our VLE brothers and sisters."

He shared that in 2014, there were only 83,000 CSCs, but now there are nearly 5.5 lakh. He also said that over 74,000 women VLEs are leading the way in empowerment.

"We are now in the era of artificial intelligence, and it is advancing rapidly. With time, we must use new technologies to bring positive change in people's lives and empower them," he added.

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