The Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) is implementing the IndiaAI Mission through IndiaAI IBD under DIC, which aims to bolster India's global leadership in AI, foster technological self-reliance, ensure ethical and responsible AI deployment, and democratize the benefits of AI across all strata of society. 

As envisioned under the “IndiaAI FutureSkills” pillar of the IndiaAI Mission, the mission will coordinate with existing efforts to increase the number of undergraduate, graduate, and post-graduate students in India by making them more accessible to AI programs. The objectives for this pillar under the Mission are as below: 

• Augment the number of fellowships for Bachelor of Technology (B.Tech), Master of Technology (M.Tech), and Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) programs to remove the barriers to entry into higher education in AI. 
• Set up 200 AI and Data labs in ITIs and Polytechnics in Tier 2 and Tier 3 cities to impart foundational-level skills in Data and Al to students. 

Call for Industry Partners:  

To ensure the success of these initiatives under the IndiaAI FutureSkills pillar, IndiaAI- an Independent Business Division (IBD) established under Digital India Corporation (DIC), MeitY is inviting esteemed organizations and industry leaders to collaborate with IndiaAI by providing mentorship to the student beneficiaries under the various initiatives and to facilitate training of the teachers/faculties under these Data & AI Labs. This partnership will not only contribute to the growth of AI talent in India but also allow industry partners to engage with promising young minds and stay at the forefront of AI innovation. 

Objective: 

The objective of this EOI is to identify and engage industry partners, individuals who can provide mentorship, guidance, and real-world insights to the students sponsored/trained under the IndiaAI FutureSkills. Industry mentors will also help in training the first batch of trainers of ITIs/NIELIT centers who will further impart training to students in fundamental Data & AI courses in IndiaAI Data Labs. These mentors will play a crucial role in shaping the student's academic and professional journeys, helping them bridge the gap between theoretical knowledge and practical application. 

Scope of Partnership: 

Selected industry partners will be expected to: 

1. Mentorship: Provide regular mentorship sessions, through one-on-one meetings, group workshops, and webinars, to guide fellows in their AI projects and career development. 
2. Enhance Trainer Expertise: Provide comprehensive training programs for trainers, ensuring they possess the latest knowledge, skills, and methodologies required to effectively train students in Data & AI disciplines. 
3. Strengthen Student Capabilities: Establish a robust training framework that will equip students with industry-relevant skills and practical experience in Data & AI, enhancing their employability and readiness for careers in the AI sector. 
4. Industry Insights: Share industry insights, trends, and best practices to enhance the student’s understanding of the AI landscape. 
5. Technical Support: Offer technical support and resources to aid the students in their AI Projects and research. 
6. Networking Opportunities: Facilitate networking opportunities by connecting the students with key stakeholders, thought leaders, and professionals in the AI domain. 
7. Career Guidance: Assist students in identifying career paths, internship opportunities, and first preference for job placements within your organization and support with placements in the AI industry. 

Benefits for the Industry Partners: 

A non-financial and non-binding MoU will be signed between the selected industry partners/individuals and IndiaAI IBD with the scope outlined above. These are the tentative benefits that the industry partners will get from having such arrangements: 

Talent Pipeline Development: 

• Access to Emerging Talent: The firms can identify and nurture potential talent early, creating a pipeline of skilled professionals ready to contribute to their workforce in the future. 
• Skill Alignment: By mentoring students, organizations can help align their skills with industry needs, ensuring that graduates are job ready. 

Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) Community Impact: 

• Societal Contribution: Contributing to educational initiatives enhances the organization's/individual’s social responsibility profile and demonstrates a commitment to societal development. It will also help the organizations to fulfill their Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR).  
• Brand Image: Participation in such initiatives can significantly boost the organization's/individual’s brand image and reputation as a leader in industry and community engagement. 

Innovation and Research: 

• Fresh Perspectives: Students often bring new and innovative ideas that can spark creativity and innovation within the organization. 
• Collaborative Research: Opportunities for joint research projects that can lead to breakthroughs and advancements in technology. 

Networking and Partnerships: 

• Strengthened Industry-Academia Ties: Building strong relationships with educational institutions and other industry leaders can lead to future collaborations and partnerships. 
• Access to Events and Conferences: Participation in related events, conferences, and seminars can provide additional networking opportunities. 

Thought Leadership: 

• Sharing Expertise: Mentoring allows industry leaders to share their knowledge and experiences, positioning themselves as thought leaders in the AI and technology sectors. 
• Influence Curriculum Development: Mentors can provide insights that help shape the curriculum, ensuring it remains relevant and up-to-date with industry trends. 

Eligibility: 

We invite applications from organizations/individuals that meet the following criteria: 

• Demonstrated expertise and leadership in AI and related technologies. 
• A commitment to nurturing and developing AI talent. 
• Ability to provide resources, support, and networking opportunities to the students. 

Submission Guidelines: 

Interested organizations/Individuals are requested to submit their response Expression of Interest by 20th November 2024 to pragati.95@meity.gov.in. The submission should include: (as applicable): 

• A brief overview of the organization and its expertise in AI. 
• Profiles of potential mentors, including their experience and qualifications. 
• Proposed detailed mentorship plan and the resources available for the students.  
• Any additional support or opportunities the organization can offer to the fellows. 

Selection Process: 

All submissions will be reviewed by a panel of experts from IndiaAI. Selected industry partners/individuals will be notified and invited for further discussions to finalize the partnership details. 

Conclusion: 

IndiaAI looks forward to partnering with industry leaders who share the vision of IndiaAI Mission. 

For any queries or further information, please contact Ms. Pragati, Scientist-B, MeitY at pragati.95@meity.gov.in.