Microsoft, 1M1B and MeitY Launch AI Centres to Build Climate Workforce

New Delhi, April 20, 2026: Microsoft, in partnership with 1M1B Foundation and MeitY Startup Hub, has launched a national initiative to build an AI-driven climate workforce through the establishment of Green Skills and Applied AI for Climate Action Centres of Excellence (CoEs).

The initiative aims to create a structured pipeline linking skilling, innovation, and employment, aligned with India’s sustainability and digital economy priorities. Five Centres of Excellence will be set up across Bengaluru, Noida, Lucknow, Shillong, and Hyderabad, with the first centre already operational in Bengaluru.

In its first year, the programme plans to engage 20,000 youth, with a target of scaling to 100,000 by 2030. It also aims to enable over 50 AI-led climate innovation use cases and provide 10,000 youth with access to jobs, internships, and livelihood opportunities.

The centres will provide hands-on exposure to real-world problem solving using artificial intelligence, data, and emerging technologies. Participants will have access to government datasets, mentorship, and industry linkages. The programme will also function as a feeder system for Technology Business Incubators and the broader MeitY startup ecosystem.

A key component of the initiative is the creation of a National Problem Solvers Registry, which will identify and connect high-performing youth innovators with government agencies and industry stakeholders to address climate-related challenges.

Commenting on the initiative, Manju Dhasmana, Sr Director, Microsoft Elevate-CSR, India said, “At Microsoft, we believe that when technology is combined with purpose, it can drive scalable impact for both people and the planet. Through this initiative, we are focused on building the next generation of innovators and problem-solvers by equipping young people with the skills, tools, and opportunities to apply AI to real-world climate challenges.”

S. Krishnan, IAS – Secretary, MeitY, said, “These Centres of Excellence mark a significant step forward in building a strong, future-ready talent ecosystem across India. We are pleased to be associated with this initiative led by 1M1B and Microsoft, and look forward to the meaningful impact it can create. The Ministry remains committed to supporting such efforts that align with India’s innovation and skilling priorities.”

Panneerselvam Madanagopal – CEO, MeitY Startup Hub said, “Through the Centres of Excellence and the National Problem Solvers Registry, we are building a nationwide pipeline that connects India’s youth talent to real-world challenges, with the registry serving as a powerful bridge between innovation, government, and industry.”

Manav Subodh, Founder, 1M1B, said: “This initiative reflects a shift from skilling to solving. By enabling youth to work on real-world climate challenges through applied AI, we are building not just skills, but pathways to innovation, livelihoods, and entrepreneurship. Our vision is to convert India’s youth dividend into a climate and AI dividend”

The programme is designed to move beyond conventional training by creating a “learning to earning” model, where participants engage with climate-tech startups, EV companies, and renewable energy firms, supported by hiring drives and job fairs.