Kathmandu— Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced a new government program on Saturday designed to offer free online coaching networks for competitive examinations, addressing the nation from the historic Red Fort in Delhi as part of the country’s 80th Independence Day celebration. The initiative aims to alleviate the financial burden placed on families sending children to private coaching institutes and prepare India's large youth population for future job opportunities, particularly in artificial intelligence. Modi highlighted that young people would be the primary beneficiaries of India’s ongoing development efforts, a message delivered amidst recent protests over exam irregularities.

Addressing Youth Concerns

Modi acknowledged the significant financial strain coaching classes place on middle-class families, stating that parents often feel pressure to enroll their children in these institutes for fear they will be seen as failing to provide adequate support. The announcement of free online coaching is a direct response to this concern and seeks to level the playing field for students from all socioeconomic backgrounds. He also announced plans to train 11 million young people in artificial intelligence skills, recognizing the growing importance of this field in the modern job market.

Recent Exam Scandals Prompt Reforms

The initiative comes after widespread youth protests erupted over leaks in a national medical entrance test earlier this year. The resulting scandal led to the resignation of the federal education minister and sparked anger across the country, particularly among the middle class. In response, Modi’s government established a panel of experts to recommend reforms to competitive exam procedures and enacted legislation imposing stricter penalties for those who compromise exam integrity.

Impact on Private Coaching Industry

The new online coaching program is expected to significantly impact India's thriving private coaching industry, currently valued at up to $15 billion. Some within the industry have been implicated in recent exam scams, and the government initiative aims to provide a more transparent and accessible alternative for students preparing for competitive examinations.

The government plans to roll out the online coaching networks and AI training programs in the coming months, hoping to address concerns about educational equity and prepare India’s youth for future economic opportunities.

(With inputs from RT)

Originally published on abcnews.com.np.