AI to Boost Job Growth and Economy, Says Ola CEO

Bhavish Aggarwal, the CEO of Ola, has articulated a compelling vision for India to emerge as a global powerhouse in artificial intelligence (AI). In an exclusive interview with ANI, Aggarwal emphasized the potential of AI to significantly enhance productivity and create new employment opportunities across various sectors, leveraging India’s vast IT talent pool.

Aggarwal highlighted India’s existing base of tens of millions of IT professionals, suggesting that AI could make their work ten times more productive, thereby attracting a tenfold increase in job opportunities. While recognizing that AI adoption may lead to some job displacements, he stressed the creation of new roles in emerging AI fields. This dual impact underlines the necessity for India to embrace AI leadership, aiming to secure a substantial share of future AI-related jobs globally.

To achieve this vision, Aggarwal outlined a strategic roadmap involving several key initiatives. These include open access to data, the development of robust AI infrastructure such as data centers and semiconductor fabs, and fostering an ecosystem conducive to AI innovation. By investing in these areas, India can position itself as a leader in AI, driving economic growth and technological advancement.

Aggarwal also addressed concerns about AI’s impact on employment. He pointed out that, in the near term, the greatest influence would be on white-collar jobs rather than blue-collar roles. This shift calls for a strategic approach from all sectors of society—business leaders, media, bureaucrats, politicians, and government officials—to harness AI’s potential while mitigating its risks.

The ambitious vision set forth by Aggarwal positions India not only as a net exporter of AI intelligence and technology but also as a leader in driving global economic productivity through AI-driven innovations. His insights underscore the transformative impact of AI on India’s economy and its potential to shape the future of global employment and technological advancement. By capitalizing on its IT talent and investing in AI infrastructure, India can aspire to become a central player in the global AI landscape.