Union education minister Dharmendra Pradhan today inaugurated IIM Lucknow’s new artificial intelligence programmes at the Bharat Bodhan AI Conclave 2026, marking a significant step toward strengthening India’s leadership in ethical and innovation-driven AI education.

Describing the initiative as a historic move to democratise AI learning and promote responsible innovation, the Minister said India aims to become a global leader in ethical AI. He emphasized that AI must drive inclusive growth and improve outcomes in education, healthcare, and public services while aligning with national values and development goals.

“With one of the world’s largest young workforces, India has the opportunity to build indigenous AI solutions for the world,” Shri Pradhan said, urging institutions to integrate technology with management education to prepare students for an AI-driven future.

IIM Lucknow director Prof. M. P. Gupta said the new programmes are designed to blend business expertise with technological depth through a modular curriculum, bridging the gap between innovation and commercially viable business models. The initiative, he noted, will contribute to India’s vision of Viksit Bharat@2047.

The institute will roll out three programmes: a four-year BS in Artificial Intelligence and Business Analytics (from 2026–27), a two-year Tech MBA (from 2027–28), and a five-year Integrated BS + Tech MBA option.

IIM Lucknow said the programmes aim to nurture digital leadership, support national initiatives such as Digital India and the India AI Mission, and position India as a global thought leader in AI-led management.

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