Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman on Saturday proposed setting up dedicated content creator labs in schools, positioning the move as a step toward preparing students for a fast-changing digital economy.
Announcing the plan during her Union Budget speech, Sitharaman said the labs would introduce students to storytelling, media production, animation and emerging digital tools. The idea is to give children early exposure to creative industries and help them build practical skills linked to modern communication and design.
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The proposal is part of a wider effort to align education with new career pathways shaped by the rapid growth of the creator economy. With social media platforms and digital businesses expanding, the government believes young Indians need structured training in creative and technical fields from an early stage.
According to the Finance Minister, the labs will encourage innovation and experimentation while also promoting responsible content creation. Officials said media literacy will be a key component, helping students understand ethical communication, online behaviour and the social impact of digital content.
The initiative is expected to support talent development in areas such as digital communication, visual design and online entrepreneurship. Policymakers see this as a way to bridge the gap between traditional classroom learning and the skills demanded by today’s job market.
The move reflects a growing recognition that creative digital work is no longer fringe employment but a mainstream economic sector. India’s large youth population and expanding internet access have created a strong base for content-driven careers, from independent creators to media startups.
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The education ministry is expected to release detailed guidelines on funding, implementation timelines and curriculum integration in the coming months. Officials indicated that partnerships with industry and technology platforms may also be explored to ensure the labs stay updated with current tools and trends.
If rolled out effectively, the scheme could reshape how schools approach digital learning, shifting the focus from passive consumption to active creation, and equipping students with skills that extend beyond conventional academic tracks.
This is a developing story. Stay with News Ei Samay for further updates.
