Andhra Pradesh has emerged as the leading state in artificial intelligence (AI) and Big Data Analytics (BDA) skilling under the Centre's FutureSkills PRIME programme, with over 1 lakh candidates completing certification. This achievement positions the state at the forefront of talent development in critical emerging technologies, according to Union government data.The Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) reported on August 12 that more than 1.5 lakh candidates in Andhra Pradesh had been enrolled or trained in AI and BDA over the last three years. Cumulatively, over 2.1 lakh candidates in the state have been enrolled or trained in these domains under the programme. The ministry highlighted that 1,08,895 candidates specifically completed certification in AI and BDA, placing Andhra Pradesh at the top nationally.FutureSkills PRIME is a MeitY initiative implemented in partnership with NASSCOM, focusing on skilling, reskilling, and upskilling in various emerging technologies. These include AI, BDA, Internet of Things (IoT), cybersecurity, blockchain, and Augmented Reality/Virtual Reality (AR/VR). The broader technology-skilling drive in Andhra Pradesh under this programme has seen over 4.3 lakh candidates enrolled or trained across all emerging technology domains. - Market Insights & Analysis - 2 min Read Andhra Pradesh Leads India in AI, Big Data Skilling Under FutureSkills PRIME Andhra Pradesh has emerged as the top state in AI and Big Data Analytics skilling under the Centre's FutureSkills PRIME programme, with over 1 lakh candidates certified. This talent development initiative is expected to support the state's efforts to attract technology investments and foster new tech hubs, contributing to India's digital infrastructure talent pool. - Published On Aug 17, 2026 at 09:57 AM IST Highlights - Andhra Pradesh leads India in AI, Big Data Analytics skilling - Over 1.08 lakh candidates certified under FutureSkills PRIME in the state - National programme records 13 lakh certifications, 86%