The Karnataka government has announced a new initiative to support engineering graduates from backward communities in gaining advanced skills in artificial intelligence. As part of the programme, 250 graduates will be provided loans of ₹2 lakh each to pursue specialised AI training at premier institutions across the country.
The scheme will be implemented through the D Devaraj Urs Backward Classes Development Corporation and aims to help students access high-quality technical training that may otherwise be financially out of reach.
Under the programme, beneficiaries will be able to enrol in AI courses offered by leading institutions such as the Indian Institutes of Technology, National Institutes of Technology and the Indian Institutes of Management. The initiative is intended to strengthen the technical capabilities of graduates and improve their prospects in emerging technology sectors.
Chief Minister Siddaramiah, presenting the 2026 Karnataka budget, said the move forms part of the state’s broader push to expand opportunities in advanced technology fields and ensure that students from historically disadvantaged communities can participate in the growing AI-driven economy.
The scheme is expected to open new pathways for young engineers seeking careers in data science, machine learning and other AI-related domains, while also supporting the state’s efforts to build a more inclusive technology workforce.
Meanwhile, many of India’s estimated 10 million students graduating every year similarly find themselves staring at the wide skills gap between what institutions teach and what the IT companies require. It’s not a new phenomenon, but with enterprises automating core operations using AI tools—and the Indian AI market growing at a CAGR of 25%–35%, according to a BCG and Nasscom report—the skilling issue has compounded.
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