With more than 1.3 million GenAI learners in 2024, India led the world in terms of online AI engagement. However, it ranked 89th out of 109 countries in overall proficiency, as it continued to grapple with a significant skills deficit across technology, data science and business domains.
Even as India saw a 107% year-on-year jump in GenAI enrolments in 2024, the workforce struggled to meet demand, according to the report.
India faces a projected shortage of more than one million AI, machine learning and data analytics professionals by 2026. Talent gaps in roles such as machine learning engineers and data scientists are estimated to be as high as 73%.
This mismatch between learner enthusiasm and industry readiness is not due to a lack of policy intent. Initiatives such as the IndiaAI mission and a spate of state-level digital skilling programmes have laid the groundwork for an ambitious AI ecosystem.
“India’s digital and AI ambition is clearly reflected in both national policies and learner behaviour,” said Prashasti Rastogi, director, Coursera for campus and government, India. “From national AI missions to skills-based hiring reforms and interdisciplinary education models, we’re seeing the foundations of a future-ready workforce take shape.”However, implementation challenges, gender gaps and low proficiency scores suggest that more targeted and inclusive interventions are needed.Gender disparity in GenAI uptake remains another obstacle. While women account for 40% of Coursera learners in India, they make up only 30% of GenAI course participants.
The report also said that India’s continued dependence on mobile learning—52% of learners access content on their phones—and a median learner age of just 31, pointing to the vast potential for digital skills training in rural and semi-urban areas if access and infrastructure are improved.