OpenAI has launched a major initiative in India, offering five lakh free ChatGPT Plus accounts to students and teachers. This program aims to make AI tools widely accessible, helping learners and educators improve digital skills, boost learning outcomes, and explore innovative ways of teaching. The rollout will take place over the next six months, in close collaboration with schools, colleges, and government bodies.
How Free ChatGPT Plus Accounts Will Be Distributed
The distribution of free ChatGPT Plus accounts will occur through three main channels:
- Government School Teachers: The Ministry of Education will provide access to teachers handling Classes 1 to 12 in government schools nationwide.
- Technical Institutes: AICTE will partner with colleges and technical institutes to help students and faculty strengthen research and digital skills.
- ARISE Schools: K-12 educators in ARISE member schools will get free ChatGPT Plus accounts to integrate AI tools into daily teaching.
This approach ensures students and teachers across all levels can benefit from AI technology.
OpenAI Learning Accelerator: Focused on Education
The initiative is part of the OpenAI Learning Accelerator, launched in India first before other countries. The program aims to:
- Promote AI as a tool for learning, not just as a shortcut for homework.
- Encourage critical thinking, creativity, and deeper subject understanding.
- Train educators to use AI effectively in classrooms.
Leadership and Partnerships
OpenAI appointed Raghav Gupta as Head of Education for India and the Asia-Pacific region. Gupta, formerly with Coursera, will:
- Build partnerships with schools, universities, and government organizations.
- Develop practical strategies for teachers to integrate AI in classrooms.
- Improve learning outcomes and prepare students for a future where AI is a core skill.
Gupta emphasized that AI can transform education in India, making learning more interactive, personalized, and accessible.
AI Research in Education
OpenAI is also supporting research in India by partnering with IIT Madras. The long-term study, funded with $500,000, will examine:
- How ChatGPT can improve teaching methods.
- Ways AI benefits students over time.
- Best practices for integrating AI safely and effectively into classrooms.
Subscription Plans and OpenAI Academy
Besides free accounts, OpenAI has introduced an India-specific subscription plan priced at Rs 399 per month with UPI payment support. In addition, OpenAI partnered with the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology to launch the OpenAI Academy, an AI literacy program designed to:
- Familiarize students and teachers with emerging AI technologies.
- Provide hands-on training for safe and effective AI use.
- Prepare learners for a digital-first educational environment.
OpenAI’s Growing Presence in India
OpenAI will open its first office in New Delhi later this year, highlighting India’s importance in its global strategy. India is already the world’s largest student market for ChatGPT, with millions using it for homework, test preparation, and projects.
By providing free ChatGPT Plus accounts and educational resources, OpenAI empowers students and teachers, bridging the digital divide and supporting the next generation of AI-ready learners.
Conclusion:
OpenAI’s initiative to distribute free ChatGPT Plus accounts in India marks a major step in transforming education. With research, training, and accessible technology, the program ensures AI becomes a powerful learning tool, helping students and educators thrive in a rapidly digitalizing world.
