To make school students job-ready and encourage them to become creators in the technology arena, a curriculum on computational thinking and artificial intelligence (AI) for students of Classes III to VIII was launched.The CBSE is implementing the curriculum to inculcate AI-readiness among school students. It seeks to build strong foundations in computational thinking, digital literacy and responsible use of technology, while also nurturing innovation, critical thinking and ethical decision-making.The National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 has emphasised the importance of AI and its role in the school curriculum. The National Curriculum Framework for School Education (NCFSE) 2023 views AI as a core 21st-century skill, equipping students with computational thinking and problem-solving abilities for a fast-changing job market.During the launch, Union Minister for Education Dharmendra Pradhan said the new curriculum marked a transformative step towards future-ready learning at the start of the academic year. “The initiative formally introduces structured AI education into the school ecosystem at scale. The curriculum is backed by structured modules, comprehensive teacher handbooks and robust student assessment frameworks, ensuring early and systematic exposure to emerging technologies and laying a strong foundation for the learners of tomorrow,” Pradhan said.Minister of State for Education Jayant Chaudhary said artificial intelligence was already reshaping how knowledge was created, decisions were made and economies function, making it imperative that children no longer remain passive users of technology but become thoughtful creators and responsible leaders.