New Delhi: The ‘PadhAI: Conclave on AI in Education’, organised by the Center of Policy Research and Governance (CPRG), concluded a successful Day 1 at the India Habitat Centre with thought provoking discussions. India’s leading platform for AI in education, the Conclave brought together voices from
government, academia, and the private sector to engage in meaningful dialogue around AI’s potential and responsibility in reshaping the future of education.
In a compelling keynote address, Shri Jitin Prasada, Hon’ble Minister of State for Commerce & Industry and Electronics & IT, Government of India, stated, “Our government’s intent is very clear: AI is for all. It cuts across government and society. We must ensure India leads not just in talent, but in conscience and compassion, producing AI that is inclusive and self-reliant.” He also appreciated CPRG for its leadership and global presence, especially its participation at the Paris AI Action Summit 2025 and the 2024 GPAI Summit in Serbia.
The inaugural session was graced by Shri Ashish Sood, Hon’ble Minister of Education, Government of NCT of Delhi, who remarked, “Our vision for Delhi is clear: AI is for all. It is about using technology to democratise education, break barriers, and create opportunities for all students.” Emphasising Delhi’s commitment to inclusive learning, he highlighted the need for AI to support, not replace, human intervention in classrooms.
Shri Vineet Joshi, Secretary, Department of Higher Education, Government of India & Chairperson, University Grants Commission, asked educators to reflect: “Are we truly ready to accept AI?” He noted the need to evolve curriculum and testing frameworks in step with technological advancements, adding, “Teachers must now become co-creators of knowledge alongside students.” Setting the Conclave’s agenda, Dr. Ramanand, Director, CPRG, remarked, “PadhAI is not just a blend of two words; it’s a deeper integration of AI and society.
Technology is transforming education, but it must do so in alignment with our social realities and needs. At CPRG, we lay emphasis on the societal perspective of AI adoption through our the Future of Society.
Day 1 of the PadhAI Conclave featured two engaging sessions. The first, titled “Learning Beyond Classrooms,” brought together Dr. Madan Mohan Tripathi, Director General, NIELIT; Ms. Charu Malhotra, Co-Founder, Primus Partners, and Shri Jagadish Babu, COO, EkStep Foundation, and was moderated by Prof. Vandana Saxena, Professor, University of Delhi. The discussion explored how AI is enabling personalised and adaptive learning, experimental education models, and inclusive digital access, with a strong emphasis on governance and safe learning environments.
The second session, “Redefining Higher Education Through AI,” included speakers Shri Abhishek Singh, CEO, IndiaAI Mission; Dr. Pramath Raj Sinha, Founder & Trustee, Ashoka University; Shri Shashi Shekhar Vempati, Co-Founder, AI4India, and Prof. Badri Narayan, Director, GB Pant Social Science Institute, while being moderated by Ms. Madhuparna Das, Associate Editor (Policy), CNN-News18. Panelists debated the ethical and educational implications of AI in universities, highlighting the need for critical thinking, curriculum innovation, reliable AI tools, and awareness around AI’s limitations, while advocating for an inclusive, India-first approach to AI in higher education.
The Conclave led the way to meaningful dialogue on innovative AI-driven solutions that enhance pedagogy and promote an adaptive, inclusive, and future-ready education system.
The PadhAI Conclave will continue on May 28, 2025, from 09:00 AM to 05:00 PM at Gulmohar Hall, India Habitat Centre, with sessions focused on inclusive learning, employability, and governance.
Details of the Closing Ceremony
Hon’ble Education Minister of India, Shri Dharmendra Pradhan, will deliver the valedictory address tomorrow from 03:15 PM to 04:15 PM.
About the Center of Policy Research and Governance (CPRG):
The Center of Policy Research and Governance (CPRG) is a policy research think tank that aims to promote responsive and participatory policy-making. As an Indian Council of Social Science Research (ICSSR)- recognised institution, it has established itself as a leading voice in technology policy through its ‘Future of Society’ initiative.
