Punjab has become the first state in India to introduce Artificial Intelligence (AI) as a mainstream subject for students from Class 1 to Class 12. The Punjab School Education Board (PSEB) will implement the curriculum in phases under the 'Sarbat.AI' initiative, making it one of the country's largest AI education programs. The initiative aims to equip students with future-ready digital and AI skills from an early age.
The curriculum has been designed to match students' learning levels across different grades. Younger students will be introduced to basic AI concepts through interactive and activity-based learning, while middle and senior school students will study machine learning, data science, ethical AI, prompt engineering, and real-world AI applications. The state government says the program is intended to prepare students for emerging careers in technology and innovation.
Education Minister Harjot Singh Bains said the initiative marks Punjab's transition from leading the Green Revolution to becoming a leader in the AI revolution. Teachers will receive specialized training before the curriculum is rolled out, and schools will be provided with the necessary digital resources and infrastructure to support AI education effectively.
The move aligns with the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, which emphasizes digital literacy, coding, and future-focused learning. By making AI a core subject throughout school education, Punjab hopes to foster innovation, critical thinking, and technological skills among students, setting a benchmark for other Indian states to follow.
