INDIA: The National Skill Development Corporation (NSDC), under the guidance of the Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship (MSDE), Government of India, and Cultus Education have announced the launch of a nationwide cloud and artificial intelligence (AI) skilling initiative in collaboration with Amazon Web Services (AWS).
The initiative aims to provide 150,000 learners across India with foundational AI and cloud literacy through AWS digital training content. Of these, 10,000 participants will receive intensive, job-ready training through AWS re/Start, a free, cohort-based workforce development program designed to help individuals build cloud computing skills and connect with employment opportunities at local employers.
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The program is designed to address key challenges faced by young people in Tier 2 and Tier 3 cities, including limited access to globally recognised technology training, fewer connections with technology employers and a lack of industry-recognised credentials required to compete for cloud and AI careers.
Delivered entirely online through Cultus Education, the NSDC-selected delivery partner, the initiative will cover states and union territories across India, with a particular focus on youth from underserved communities and emerging talent hubs.
From digital learning to employment opportunities
Learners will begin their journey through AWS digital training content, allowing them to develop foundational knowledge of cloud computing and AI at their own pace. Participants who demonstrate readiness can progress to AWS re/Start, which provides structured, instructor-led training covering cloud infrastructure, security, networking and AI fundamentals.
Through hands-on labs, real-world scenarios and structured coursework, participants will build practical skills in areas including programming, networking, security and relational databases. Professional mentors and accredited instructors will support learners throughout the training journey.
Graduates will have the opportunity to earn an AWS Certification, an industry-recognised credential that validates cloud computing skills. They will also gain access to qualified interview opportunities through connections with local employers.
The initiative will conclude with a National Hackathon, where participants will have an opportunity to demonstrate their cloud and AI solutions to hiring managers, industry leaders and other stakeholders.
Focus on inclusive access to technology careers
Speaking at the launch, Shri Jayant Chaudhary, Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Skill Development and Entrepreneurship and Minister of State for Education, Government of India, said the initiative reflects the vision of Viksit Bharat by ensuring that access to opportunities is not determined by geography or background.
“As India moves towards becoming a global hub for innovation, technology and talent, it is essential that our youth in Tier 2 and Tier 3 towns also get the opportunity to equipped themselves with the skills needed for the jobs of the future,” Chaudhary said. He added that such initiatives would contribute to building an inclusive, skilled and future-ready workforce, which is central to India’s journey towards Viksit Bharat 2047.
Rani Burchmore, APJC Lead, AWS Skilling & Social Impact, said AWS re/Start helps bring new talent into the workforce while creating benefits for individuals, employers and communities.
“We are proud to work with NSDC and Cultus Education to build the diverse, robust cloud workforce of the future, enabling organisations to accelerate their innovation with the AWS Cloud,” Burchmore said.
Nalin Singh, Group Managing Director, Cultus Education, said the success of a skilling initiative should ultimately be measured by whether learning leads to confidence, credentials and meaningful career opportunities.
“Our focus is to make globally relevant cloud and AI skills accessible beyond major metros, creating an outcome-led journey from learning and training to certification and employer connections,” Singh said.
Prashant Sinha, Chief Operating Officer, NSDC, was also present at the launch.
The initiative is expected to create wider social and economic impact by expanding access to high-quality technology training and employment opportunities for young people across India. Its online-first model is intended to allow learners in smaller cities and towns to access globally relevant training without relocating to major metropolitan centres.
By combining foundational digital learning, structured cloud training, industry-recognised certification, employer connections and a national-level hackathon, the initiative seeks to create a pathway for young Indians from learning and skill development to technology careers.
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