IT Secretary Krishnan on Thursday urged the industry to embrace artificial intelligence (AI), dismissing concerns that the technology would lead to widespread job losses. Speaking at an industry event, he acknowledged anxieties in the IT and IT-enabled services (ITES) sector about AI's impact on employment but asserted there was 'no reason to fear.'
AI as a Tool for Growth
Krishnan emphasized that AI should be viewed as a tool to enhance productivity and create new opportunities rather than a threat to existing jobs. He highlighted that historical technological shifts have always led to the evolution of job roles, not their elimination. 'The key is to upskill and adapt,' he said, urging companies to invest in training their workforce to work alongside AI systems.
Addressing Industry Concerns
The IT Secretary noted that while some routine tasks may be automated, AI would also generate demand for new skills in areas like data analysis, machine learning, and AI ethics. He pointed to the government's initiatives to promote digital literacy and reskilling programs as steps to prepare the workforce for the changing landscape.
Industry representatives at the event echoed the need for a balanced approach, with many already integrating AI into their operations to improve efficiency. However, they also stressed the importance of clear policies to manage the transition and ensure job security for employees.
Krishnan concluded by calling for collaboration between the government, industry, and academia to build a robust AI ecosystem that benefits all stakeholders. 'We must not let fear hold us back from harnessing the potential of AI for India's growth,' he said.
