AI Upskilling in India: As artificial intelligence continues to transform industries globally, India finds itself at a critical juncture. A recent report by Google.org and the Asian Development Bank (ADB) emphasizes the need for immediate and inclusive action to equip India’s workforce for an AI-driven future. Titled “AI for All: Building an AI-ready Workforce in Asia-Pacific,” the report highlights the risks, opportunities, and urgent steps India must take to prepare for this shift..
Why AI Upskilling in India Is Urgent
AI is expected to contribute up to $3 trillion to Asia-Pacific’s GDP by 2030. As one of the region’s largest economies and home to the world’s youngest population, India is well-placed to benefit—if it acts swiftly.
But there’s a catch: Without targeted skilling initiatives, millions of workers risk being left behind. Job roles that involve repetitive tasks—such as data entry, office support, and scheduling—are already being automated. The people holding these jobs often come from underserved backgrounds, including women, informal workers, and those with limited digital access.
The Most Vulnerable Groups
According to the report, these groups are most at risk in the AI shift:
-
Women in office and retail roles
-
Informal workers with no access to formal training
-
Youth looking for their first job without AI exposure.
-
Rural populations with poor internet or device access
While AI has the potential to improve lives, the reality is that those lacking digital skills may lose their livelihoods unless urgent intervention is made.
India’s Skills Gap: Even Engineering Graduates Struggle
One of the most concerning revelations is that even graduates from India’s top engineering institutions are struggling to secure jobs. A 2024 report from the Times of India stated that only 10% of 1.5 million engineering students were expected to be placed after graduation.
This highlights a deeper problem—a mismatch between education and job market demands. Traditional degrees are no longer enough. Employers now seek skills like:
-
Critical thinking
-
Problem-solving
-
Adaptability
-
Ability to use AI tools
Women Face a Double Challenge
Women represent about 35% of India’s workforce, yet they are overrepresented in roles that are highly vulnerable to automation. Many also exit the workforce due to caregiving responsibilities, and when they return, they face an entirely changed job landscape.
The report emphasizes that AI can be a powerful equalizer, but only if women are provided with flexible, accessible, and relevant upskilling opportunities. Tailored programs for women—especially mothers returning to work—are essential to ensure inclusion.
Students and Informal Workers Need a New Learning Path
India’s informal workforce, which includes textile factory workers, packaging staff, and delivery drivers, is often left out of formal training. These workers usually perform manual, repetitive tasks that are easy targets for automation.
The report points out that digital access remains a major challenge. Many rural areas lack smartphones or internet coverage, leaving millions digitally disconnected.
Five Urgent Steps to Prepare India for an AI Future
The Google.org–ADB report offers five key actions that India must take now:
1. Tailored Skilling for Different Groups
Programs should be adapted to meet the needs of:
-
Graduates
-
Informal sector workers
-
Women
-
Digitally disadvantaged individuals
-
Older adults
2. Focus on Practical Training
Surveys show that 40% of respondents prefer real-world training over technical theory. Skilling must prepare people for actual job roles.
3. Raise Awareness About AI Opportunities
Only 15% of workers in Asia-Pacific have taken part in AI-related training. India needs nationwide awareness campaigns to boost participation.
4. Support for MSMEs (Micro, Small & Medium Enterprises)
MSMEs make up over 90% of businesses in India, but many lack the resources to train employees in AI. Government and private support are essential to help them adopt new technologies.
5. Address Gender and Digital Access Gaps
To prevent further inequality, AI skilling must be:
-
Gender-inclusive
-
Available in local languages
-
Accessible in rural areas
Signs of Progress and Hope
Despite the challenges, there are encouraging signs. Programs like Grow with Google have trained over 60 million people across Asia-Pacific. The AI Opportunity Fund, launched in 2024, aims to upskill over 500,000 workers, including in India, through partnerships with NGOs and local organizations.
These programs show that scalable, inclusive training is possible—if approached with urgency and collaboration.
Conclusion: Act Now, or Fall Behind
India is uniquely positioned to become a global leader in AI—but only if it prepares its workforce now. The risks of inaction are serious: rising unemployment, deeper inequalities, and missed economic growth.
AI upskilling in India is no longer a future goal—it’s a present necessity. With intentional, inclusive, and scalable training, India can not only adapt to AI—it can thrive in it.
Also read: Cloud Gaming in 2025: Is It Finally Ready to Displace Consoles?
Join Our Community
Stay updated with lineups, last-minute injury news, and expert picks by joining our Telegram & WhatsApp communities:
| Platform | Join Link |
|---|---|
| Telegram | KhelTantra Telegram |
| KhelTantra Whatsapp |
