The Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship (MSDE), Government of India, today announced the launch of the Skill India Assistant (SIA), an AI-powered digital skilling tool developed in collaboration with Meta, using its open-source Llama models. This marks the world’s first large-scale initiative of its kind, where an open-source AI model is being integrated into a nationwide public skilling mission on WhatsApp, providing access to millions of Indians across the country.
Accessible via WhatsApp at +91 8448684032 and available on the Skill India Digital Hub, SIA offers people a unique opportunity to explore skilling courses, discover nearby training centres, and access job opportunities tailored to their needs. This innovative initiative is the result of a strategic collaboration between Meta and NSDC, implemented by Sarvam AI, aimed at bridging the digital divide and transforming the way Indians connect to skill development opportunities.
Speaking during the launch, Shri Jayant Chaudhary, Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Skill Development and Entrepreneurship, stated, “The Skill India Assistant marks a pivotal shift in how we deliver learning and employment support to our citizens. By harnessing the power of AI in a familiar platform like WhatsApp, we are bringing personalised skilling guidance directly to the fingertips of millions, especially those in remote and underserved areas. It’s not just a technological milestone, but a powerful step toward ensuring that opportunity, learning, and upward mobility are truly within everyone’s reach.”
Shivnath Thukral, Vice President and Head of Public Policy, Meta India, added, “With this launch, we aim to enhance how AI can serve society. The Skill India Assistant (SIA) demonstrates that open-source technology, when deployed thoughtfully and collaboratively, can uplift millions. We are pleased to support India’s vision of an inclusive, empowered, digitally connected economy.”
The Skill India Assistant (SIA) is currently available in English, Hindi, and Hinglish, with a roadmap to expand into more regional languages. Its launch on WhatsApp ensures wide accessibility, especially for rural and underserved communities. User feedback will be actively gathered and incorporated into future updates, allowing the assistant to evolve with learner needs and AI advancements.
As India pursues its goal of becoming the global skill capital, the Skill India Assistant represents not just a technological innovation, but a commitment to ensuring that every citizen, regardless of location or background, has a trusted mentor guiding their journey toward economic opportunity.
