India's Higher Education Secretary Vineet Joshi has stated that artificial intelligence (AI) will play a pivotal role in ending the longstanding reliance on rote learning in the country's education system. Speaking on the integration of AI into higher education, Joshi emphasized the government's aim to eliminate outdated memorization-based methods and shift toward more interactive, conceptual, and skill-oriented learning. He highlighted that this transformation aligns with the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, which mandates AI inclusion to modernize teaching and learning processes.

Joshi noted that India's education system was historically more interactive and question-answer based before the introduction of the Macaulay system, which promoted rote memorization. He pointed out that Prime Minister Narendra Modi has repeatedly stressed the need to move away from this one-sided approach. According to Joshi, AI's integration is crucial because it enables personalized learning, adaptive assessments, and tools that foster critical thinking, problem-solving, and real-world application rather than mere repetition of facts.

The comments come amid broader efforts by the Ministry of Education to embed AI across all levels of education. Initiatives include mandatory AI training for teachers before students, the development of AI-assisted applications, and the push for "AI-sovereignty" to ensure ethical and inclusive deployment. Recent developments, such as the Bharat Bodhan AI Conclave 2026 and proposals for AI centers of excellence, underscore the government's commitment to leveraging technology for educational reform, particularly in higher education where competency-based outcomes are increasingly prioritized.

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This vision addresses persistent criticisms of India's education framework, which has long been accused of prioritizing exam performance through memorization over deeper understanding and innovation. By harnessing AI for customized lesson plans, virtual labs, and competency-focused evaluations, policymakers aim to prepare students for an AI-driven economy, reducing high out-of-pocket expenses on coaching and bridging gaps in employability.

The statement reflects growing momentum in India's education sector toward digital transformation, with AI positioned as a tool to democratize quality learning and empower both educators and learners. As implementation progresses, stakeholders anticipate measurable improvements in learning outcomes, though challenges like equitable access, teacher readiness, and ethical AI use remain key areas of focus. Joshi's remarks signal a decisive policy direction to make education more dynamic and future-ready.

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