Prime Minister Narendra Modi has called for accelerating efforts to link India’s education system with the real-world economy, urging academic institutions to focus on emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence and automation while strengthening industry collaboration and research-driven learning.

Addressing a post-Budget webinar attended by stakeholders from various ministries, departments and private sector experts, the Prime Minister said fulfilling the aspirations of citizens remains the core objective of his government, with sectors such as education, skill development, health, tourism, sports and culture playing a crucial role.

“Fulfilling the aspirations of the people is not just a subject but the core objective and resolution of this government,” Modi said, adding that these sectors serve as vital instruments to achieve that goal.

Highlighting ongoing reforms, Modi said sustained efforts are being made to connect education with employment and entrepreneurship.

He noted that the National Education Policy 2020 lays the foundation for a curriculum aligned with market demands and the evolving global economy, particularly in areas such as artificial intelligence, automation and the digital economy.

“We will have to accelerate the process of linking our education system with the real-world economy,” the Prime Minister said.

Emphasising the need for stronger industry-academia collaboration, Modi urged universities and institutions to transform their campuses into centres of innovation and applied learning.

“I would urge you that this webinar should brainstorm on developing campuses as centres of industry collaboration and research-driven learning,” he said.

The Prime Minister also highlighted the growing potential of the Animation, Visual Effects, Gaming and Comics (AVGC) sector, noting that it represents an emerging nexus between education, employment and enterprise.

Calling for a robust research ecosystem, Modi stressed that young researchers must be encouraged to experiment and pursue innovative ideas without barriers.

“We must create a research ecosystem where young researchers get full opportunity to experiment and work on new ideas,” he said.

The Prime Minister also underscored the importance of Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics education, expressing satisfaction at the increasing participation of women in STEM fields.

“It is heartening to see that the daughters of our country have a strong interest in STEM. When we talk about futuristic technologies, it is important that no daughter is held back due to lack of opportunities,” he said.

Modi further highlighted progress in the health sector, citing initiatives such as Ayushman Bharat and the expansion of wellness centres that have improved access to healthcare services in rural areas.

Referring to the emerging “care economy”, the Prime Minister noted that the demand for trained caregivers is expected to rise as India’s senior citizen population grows. He called for the development of new training models to meet the increasing demand.

On youth development, Modi said the country’s “youth power” transforms into “national power” when it is healthy, disciplined and confident, stressing the role of sports in nation-building.

He cited initiatives such as Khelo India, which he said have injected fresh momentum into the country’s sports ecosystem while strengthening sports infrastructure nationwide.

The Prime Minister also highlighted tourism and culture as key drivers of employment and economic growth. Developing new destinations beyond traditional tourist hubs, he said, can enhance city branding and spur regional development.

“Trained guides, hospitality skills, digital connectivity and community participation are becoming pillars of our tourism sector. Alongside these, cleanliness and sustainable practices are equally important,” Modi said, inviting suggestions from stakeholders to further strengthen India’s position as a global tourism destination.