New Delhi: Chairman and CEO of Adobe, Shantanu Narayen, announced a major initiative to expand AI-driven creativity and digital skills among Indian students, aligning with Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision of a ‘Viksit Bharat’.
Speaking at the India AI Impact Summit 2026 at Bharat Mandapam, Narayen said Adobe is committed to preparing India’s youth for AI-first careers by offering access to advanced creative and productivity tools.
Free Access to Adobe AI Tools for Students
Adobe will provide its flagship tools — including Adobe Firefly, Photoshop, and Acrobat Pro — free of cost to students in accredited higher education institutions across India.
The initiative aims to:
- Equip students with AI-driven creative and productivity skills
- Offer structured coursework, training modules and certifications
- Prepare graduates for careers in the AI-powered digital economy
Students will gain access to Adobe’s generative AI models designed for safe and commercially viable content creation, along with exposure to other generative AI systems.
Firefly AI Studio and Global AI Integrations
Adobe Firefly, an all-in-one creative AI studio, integrates models from partners such as Google, OpenAI and Runway, allowing students flexibility in content creation based on their specific needs.
With Acrobat Pro, students will be able to edit text and images efficiently and collaborate seamlessly, enhancing productivity in academic and professional projects.
Supporting ‘Create in India’ and AVGC Growth
The announcement strengthens the government’s ‘Create in India’ initiative and aligns with the Union Budget 2026 target of generating 2 million jobs by 2030 in the Animation, Visual Effects, Gaming and Comics (AVGC) sector.
In partnership with the government, Adobe will roll out its AI-first curriculum and industry-backed programmes across:
- 15,000 schools
- 500 colleges
These institutions will establish Content Creator Labs to foster hands-on learning and innovation.
Advancing India’s AI and Creative Economy
Narayen expressed optimism about the creativity of Indian students and their potential to accelerate India’s digital transformation.
Industry observers believe Adobe’s strategic investment in AI education will strengthen India’s position as a global hub for creative technology, digital content and AI-driven innovation.
With access to world-class AI tools and structured training, millions of Indian students are expected to benefit from enhanced employability and global career opportunities in the coming years.
