As AI transforms industries globally, it also raises concerns about job displacement in India, especially within sectors like IT, management and creative fields

Artificial intelligence (AI) is reshaping industries across the globe and India is no exception. The introduction of AI promises growth opportunities, new business models, and enhanced competitiveness in the global market. However, it also raises significant concerns, especially around job security. This is particularly true for workers in sectors perceived as more susceptible to automation, such as IT, management, writing, and entertainment.

The duality of optimism for AI’s potential and anxieties over job displacement is a pressing issue for India as it seeks to balance these perspectives.

In the business sector, AI is primarily used to automate routine tasks and streamline management functions, resulting in improved decision-making capabilities. Middle management roles are especially vulnerable to automation as AI takes on complex tasks, such as supply chain, data, and customer management, with minimal human intervention. By optimising these operations, companies achieve greater control and efficiency, but at the potential cost of middle-management jobs.

Similarly, the creative industries are feeling the impact of AI. Fields such as modeling, advertising, voice acting, and content creation face increasing competition from AI-generated graphics, voices, and written content. AI models are now advanced enough to produce realistic images, draft coherent articles, and even mimic human voices, reducing the need for human involvement in creative tasks. This shift leaves specialists in these areas concerned about future employment prospects. The challenge lies in adapting to these changes, harnessing the benefits of AI while mitigating job loss.

The Indian government recognises the implications of AI on job creation and is actively working to address these challenges. One of its main strategies is to focus on human capital development and workforce preparedness. Initiatives like the Pradhan Mantri Kaushal Vikas Yojna (PMKVY) aim to upskill a significant portion of the population, emphasising AI, machine learning, and robotics. These initiatives intend to create new job opportunities in AI while managing its impact on the workforce. The private sector is also contributing to this effort. Major Indian IT firms, such as Infosys, Wipro, and Tata Consultancy Services (TCS), have launched extensive upskilling programmes to prepare their employees for the digital future.

Infosys, for instance, has developed a global training initiative to help its workforce keep pace with advancements in AI and other emerging technologies. These transformation-focused programs prioritise skills in AI, cloud computing, and data science, equipping workers to stay relevant in a rapidly evolving job market.

Some companies are also finding ways to integrate AI that enhance, rather than replace, human productivity. Transitioning to an AI-driven economy has its benefits and challenges. On one hand, AI is expected to spur economic growth and innovation, creating new opportunities. On the other hand, it raises concerns about job security and the redistribution of work. Addressing these challenges requires a collaborative effort among workers, businesses, and the government.

For workers, adaptability is key, requiring a willingness to acquire new skills and embrace evolving work environments. For businesses and policymakers, there is a shared responsibility to invest in reskilling initiatives and create jobs that align with AI-driven changes. By prioritising human capital and fostering a proactive approach to workforce development, India can position itself to benefit from AI while minimising the risk of widespread job displacement.

(The writer is faculty-emerging technologies, Wadhwani Centre for Government Digital Transformation; views are personal)