Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan on Thursday said that India, for the first time, introduced computational thinking and artificial intelligence curriculum for students from Classes 3 to 8.
Addressing a programme of Vidya Bharati in New Delhi at the beginning of the new academic year, the minister said, "Students will learn what artificial intelligence (AI) is, what its limits are, what its possibilities are, and how computational thinking can shape the future.”
Pradhan claimed that India's curriculum is emerging as one of the best in the world and that the country's preparations in artificial intelligence are ahead of many nations.
While launching the curriculum on Wednesday, he pointed out, "The launch of this curriculum marks a transformative step towards future-ready learning at the start of the academic year. This initiative formally introduces structured AI education into the school ecosystem at scale."
"Backed by structured modules, comprehensive teacher handbooks and robust student assessment frameworks, the initiative ensures early and systematic exposure to emerging technologies laying a strong foundation for the learners of tomorrow," he added.
Aligned with the vision of "AI for Education, AI in Education", Pradhan said that it marks a decisive shift towards augmented learning -- nurturing critical thinking, design orientation and a culture of innovation among young minds.
"As India's leadership in technology-driven computing gains global recognition, this curriculum will empower students to meaningfully engage with and shape the digital future. CBSE and NCERT institutionalising this forward-looking framework and advancing a more adaptive, technology-integrated education ecosystem," Pradhan said.
The CBSE had constituted an expert panel to develop the curriculum for artificial intelligence and computational thinking.
So far, CBSE used to offer AI as a 15-hour skill module from Class 6 onwards. It is also offered AI as an optional skill subject to students in classes 9-12.