NxtWave has announced a strategic partnership with Japan-based TIER IV and the Autoware Foundation. In collaboration with the National Skill Development Corporation (NSDC), this partnership aims to create the world’s largest Autonomous Vehicle Developer Community under the NxtWave SkillUp India 4.0 initiative. The programme seeks to train 30 lakh Indian students in advanced AV and Physical AI technologies, positioning India as a global hub for innovation in these sectors.
The partnership focuses on bridging the gap between academia and industry by equipping Indian youth with future-ready skills in AV technology. Physical AI, which integrates artificial intelligence with real-world physical systems, has transformative potential in industries such as transportation, logistics, healthcare, and agriculture. The initiative will prepare students to design and deploy intelligent systems such as driverless trucks, autonomous drones, and smart tractors, addressing the growing demand for AI-driven mobility solutions.
To ensure inclusivity, the programme will adopt both offline and online learning models and provide content in regional languages. It will also integrate insights from industry collaborations to refine the AV curriculum and introduce specialised tracks. The immediate goals include raising awareness about AV career prospects, equipping students with core AV skills, and strengthening industry-academia collaboration. Long-term objectives include building a robust talent pipeline, fostering startups and research initiatives, and elevating India’s global standing in autonomous systems development.
In addition to AVs, the programme is expected to impact adjacent sectors such as healthcare, logistics, and agriculture, potentially enabling technologies like autonomous medical drones and precision farming systems.