Discussions on artificial intelligence often center on whether it will eliminate positions. At a recent event session titled “I, Robot: How AI is reshaping the future of work”, experts contended that India may overlook a more critical issue: adapting education, training, research and companies to an AI-driven era. The discussion, led by a business editor, featured former technology executives and policy advisors. One speaker noted that recent workforce reductions stemmed mainly from pandemic-era overstaffing rather than AI itself. Still, risks remain real. Routine tasks will face pressure, especially affecting entry-level roles that employ millions of young people. The focus should shift from resisting change to restructuring tasks, separating those suitable for automation from those needing human oversight. A proposed approach involves humans setting questions and reviewing results, with AI handling execution. This model gains importance as independent AI systems spread. India ranks among major digital markets, yet speakers cautioned against equating consumption with value creation. Global AI value projections show most gains concentrated in two nations, and India should aim for a larger share. Opportunities lie in applying AI across key sectors like farming, learning and medical care, where local solutions have scaled quickly and influenced other regions. Corporate boards drew criticism for limited technical expertise, with few directors showing technology knowledge and scant mention of AI in reports. Education and research also lag, with graduates not fully prepared and insufficient private investment in innovation. India has succeeded in adopting technologies but trails in original development. Overall, the outlook balances disruption at lower job levels with new prospects, stressing rapid updates to institutions and skills to move beyond mere technology use.
