• New Skill Development Centre will bring AI awareness, digital literacy and job-linked training to 400 rural learners in step with India’s Digital India and India AI Mission push into rural districts 

NEW DELHI: NIIT Foundation and Bhual Singh Foundation have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to establish the first AI Literate Village in Javansipur, Mariahu Block, Jaunpur district, Uttar Pradesh, marking an important step towards advancing digital inclusion and creating future-ready rural communities.

The initiative seeks to make Artificial Intelligence (AI), digital literacy, employability skills and career development opportunities accessible to underserved communities, enabling them to participate confidently in India's rapidly evolving digital economy. 

Under the partnership, Bhual Singh Foundation will set up a dedicated Skill Development Centre in Jamalapur that will serve as a community hub for AI awareness, digital literacy, employability skills, and financial literacy, career counselling and placement support. The centre will provide structured learning opportunities for youth, women, students and community members, empowering them with practical skills that improve livelihoods, expand career opportunities and encourage entrepreneurship. 

The initiative aims to enrol 400 beneficiaries, including 100 learners in career-oriented courses, 150 participants in foundation skilling programs and 150 beneficiaries in AI awareness, financial literacy and future skills programs. Approximately 45 learners completing career-focused courses are expected to receive placement opportunities. 

Beyond technical training, the program will focus on building digital confidence by promoting responsible technology use, AI awareness and cyber safety. Participants will gain exposure to industry-relevant skills, career guidance and digital tools that are increasingly becoming essential for employment and economic participation. The initiative also seeks to strengthen community participation by encouraging greater involvement of women, youth and marginalised groups in digital learning. 

Speaking on the partnership, Charu Kapoor, Country Director, NIIT Foundation, said, "Technology has the power to transform lives for all. Through the AI Literate Village initiative, we are bringing AI awareness, digital literacy and employability skills to rural communities, ensuring that young people are equipped not only for the jobs of today but also for the opportunities of tomorrow. Our vision is to create a sustainable learning ecosystem that empowers individuals, strengthens livelihoods and enables rural India to thrive in the digital age."

Deepa Amit Singh, Director, Bhual Singh Foundation said, "We believe every person, regardless of where they live, deserves access to quality education and future-ready skills. Our partnership with NIIT Foundation reflects our shared commitment to creating meaningful opportunities for rural communities through technology-led learning. By investing in digital literacy, AI awareness and employability, we hope to build stronger, self-reliant communities and contribute to India's inclusive growth journey." 

The initiative is designed with long-term sustainability in mind, the project will adopt a Train-the-Teacher model, enabling local educators to continue delivering learning programs independently. Smart Classroom infrastructure and digital learning resources will gradually be handed over to schools, creating community-owned learning assets that ensure the initiative continues to benefit future generations. Bhual Singh Foundation will also support the long-term sustainability of the program by mobilising CSR and philanthropic partnerships to expand its impact. 

Through this collaboration, NIIT Foundation and Bhual Singh Foundation aim to demonstrate how technology-led skilling initiatives can accelerate rural digital inclusion, strengthen employability and create pathways for sustainable socio-economic development. This Collaboration was facilitated by Rajanaya Consulting Pvt Ltd, which was represented by Mr Kevin Marks and Mr. Tauseef Alam.

Your voice can reach the world: At JK Monitor, we firmly believe that every well-researched idea has the power to inspire change beyond geographical boundaries. We are delighted to share an encouraging message from one of our esteemed contributors, Dr. Rakesh Verma (J&K Forest Services). “His article, ‘When Trees Become Rights-Bearing Citizens: A Lesson from Canada for India’s Ecological Future,’ published on JK Monitor, received appreciation from La Compagnie des Papillons Bleus, the French non-profit organisation that founded and promotes the Universal Declaration of Tree Rights.”.  Read the message here
In loving memory of Dr. Priya Ranjan: A mentor who treated me like family
A Profound Loss: JK Monitor Mourns the Passing of Founding Chairman Dr. Priya Ranjan

We at JK Monitor are profoundly saddened by the sudden demise of our Founding Chairman, Dr. Priya Ranjan.IN LOVING MEMORY Dr Priya Ranjan

A brilliant mind who studied at Netarhat Residential School and graduated in Electrical Engineering from IIT Kharagpur before earning his PhD from the University of Maryland, Dr. Ranjan chose to return to India and dedicate his life to teaching, research and social good.

His pioneering work in networked systems, AI, robotics and biomedical applications—especially computer-vision tools for early detection of cancer and heart disease—reflected his deep belief that advanced technology must serve humanity.

For more than 15 years at JK Monitor, he remained a loyal friend, mentor and collaborator, marked by rare humility, intellectual integrity and quiet generosity. His passing leaves a void that cannot be filled. Priya, you will be deeply missed. Your life continues to remind us that knowledge finds its highest purpose in the service of others.

— Team JK Monitor

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