Intel’s corporate purpose is to create world-changing technology that improves the life of every person on the planet. Intel put silicon in Silicon Valley, and today we are applying our reach, scale, and resources to deliver bold goals. Their goal is simple: technology for all, with collaboration in 30 countries, digital access for 30 thousand institutions, and training for 30 million people. They rolled out the Intel Digital Readiness Programs globally in partnership with government, academia, civil society, and industry stakeholders. This shared value and shared responsibility program portfolio aims to demystify and democratize emerging technologies for broader non-technical audiences, irrespective of their location, gender, and ethnicity. The Digital Readiness Program portfolio has six programs, each aimed at a different set of audiences and addressing a specific need. These programs empower non-technical audiences with the appropriate skill sets, mindsets, toolsets, and opportunities to use technology impactfully and responsibly in the AI-fueled world.

AI for Citizens – one of the six programs, was launched in India in 2021, by our Hon. Prime Minister Sh. Narendra Modi. The program is known as AI for All in India as per India’s national AI strategy. It is a 4-hour, self-paced learning program designed to raise awareness about Artificial Intelligence and aimed at the general public with a non-technical background, who have digital access and want to know about AI.

AI for All is available in 11 Indian languages and is compatible with multiple accessibility features. In the last 2 years, the program has reached out to over 4.1 million citizens across all States/UTs in the country. It builds an elementary understanding of AI, its potential, and its pitfalls. It also provides introductory knowledge of the common domains of AI and its related issues. The program aligns with the larger goal of the Government of India, to create an AI-ready population that is well-prepared for the digital economy. 

AI for All – Impact Stories

There are numerous stories of how AI for All helped the beneficiaries in improving their personal and professional lives. Some have gained technical confidence, some are able to hold AI conversations with their wards and it earns them their ward’s respect, some have started using AI-linked apps to better their professional lives, and yet others have become inspirations for their community. Here are some of the inspirational and empowering stories of common citizens who completed the course –

Malik Iqbal Miyan, a rickshaw operator from Thasra village, Gujarat, used to struggle to make ends meet. Living hand-to-mouth, his earnings were barely sufficient to meet his family's needs. However, his life took a transformative turn in 2021, when he was introduced to the potential of AI tools through the "AI For All" campaign in his community. Previously hesitant to take riders to unfamiliar places, Malik now confidently uses Google Maps to navigate even the remotest areas and his earnings have increased significantly as a result of his newfound confidence and AI proficiency. A beaming Malik is happy that he took the opportunity to complete the AI for All Program and openly acknowledges its contribution in expanding his knowledge, giving him the confidence to use online apps responsibly and subsequently improving his financial well-being.

Saba, a 27-year-old, transgender from Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh, India, remembers joining the AI for All training program in 2021. Her struggles to get an identity of her own had not been easy for her. She reluctantly joined the AI for All Program but by the end of it, she was full of ideas for a better future for herself and the transgender community. By the end of her AI for All journey, she became more confident in using digital tools. Using the knowledge gained, Saba harnessed the power of AI tools and started promoting healthcare awareness in her community, advocating for transgender rights, and creating inclusive content for social media. She is now considered an inspiration by her community members. Her journey embodies the program’s ethos of empowering the citizens to play an important role in harnessing the potential of AI toward a better life for all.

Mukesh Prajapati, a resident of Panthawada village in Banaskantha, Gujarat, used to face challenges while claiming his Employee Provident Fund (EPF) from his private limited company employers. However, the AI for All program journey turned out to be immensely beneficial to him. With a brand-new confidence to use apps and websites, he learned about the UMANG app, a 'mobile-first' AI initiative aimed at making governance accessible to the general public. With this knowledge, Mukesh facilitated the process of his EPF without any hassle. Mukesh expresses deep gratitude to Intel and the Government of India for their efforts in explaining the effective utilization of Artificial Intelligence through the "AI For All" program.

And the stories continue to pour in, as AI for All continues empowering people by democratizing and demystifying AI for the common citizens. With a goal of empowering 10 million citizens in the next few years, the AI for All program is poised to be the largest, mass AI skilling program in India.