India is emerging as a global leader in Artificial Intelligence (AI) talent and skills, according to Sindhu Gangadharan, the new chairperson of Nasscom. In a recent interview, she highlighted that this is the perfect time to be in India, especially for those in the technology sector. She emphasized that the country’s strong foundation in AI puts it in a favorable position during this transformative era of technological advancements.
Gangadharan also touched on various important issues, such as the need for mental and social well-being in the workplace, the potential economic impact of AI, and concerns about job displacement due to artificial intelligence. Addressing these concerns, she reassured that AI will not eliminate jobs but will instead boost productivity, leading to innovation and enabling workers to focus on more critical tasks.
In her discussion, Gangadharan emphasized the importance of mental and physical well-being for employees. She stressed that companies should prioritize the well-being of their staff by making it a part of their organizational culture through supportive policies and practices. Her comments come after the tragic death of a young employee at a consulting firm, which sparked a debate on social media about workplace stress in corporate India.
Regarding India’s growing role in the global AI landscape, Gangadharan expressed optimism and pride in the country’s capabilities. She noted that India has become the “Global Capability Centre (GCC) capital of the world” and remains at the forefront of AI talent and skills. With around 16% of the world’s AI talent coming from India, she said that the country’s focus on talent development and skill enhancement will be crucial in maintaining this competitive edge.
Gangadharan highlighted that there are currently around 1,200 GCCs in India, and this number is expected to increase to over 2,200. As these centers grow, the demand for skilled talent will rise significantly. She explained that India’s success in AI is driven by its ability to combine technology with domain expertise, which allows businesses to solve complex problems effectively. She expressed confidence that with continued focus on training and collaboration between industry, academia, and the government, India’s AI sector will reach new heights.
The chairperson also addressed concerns about AI replacing jobs. She explained that rather than displacing workers, AI will enhance productivity and allow people to focus more on their core strengths. According to her, the technological advancements brought by AI will lead to further innovation and create new job opportunities, particularly in areas that require human creativity and critical thinking.
Generative AI, in particular, is revolutionizing business operations and customer experiences. Gangadharan pointed out that businesses are now able to sift through large amounts of data quickly, enabling faster decision-making. This technology is reshaping business models and generating significant economic value. According to estimates, AI could add between USD 3.5 to USD 4 trillion in economic value within the next three years, showcasing its tremendous potential.
Looking ahead, Gangadharan said that Nasscom will continue to focus on several key areas. These include engineering research and development, intellectual property (IP) creation, and the growth of startups in India. She believes that India’s proven strengths in AI talent and skills will attract more companies seeking to leverage this expertise for technological transformation.
In conclusion, India’s leadership in AI talent and skills positions it as a key player in the global AI ecosystem. With a strong focus on innovation, collaboration, and well-being, India’s technology sector is set to thrive in the coming years. Gangadharan remains optimistic about the future of India’s tech industry, and believes that the country has the potential to continue leading the charge in AI and other emerging technologies.
