Artificial intelligence (AI), especially machine learning (ML), has been regarded as the most important general-purpose technology (GPT) of our era. Recent innovations in ML are engendering economically significant applications across diverse sectors and occupations. ML technologies such as deep learning, image & speech recognition, natural language processing, and predictive analytics have empowered machines to match, or even surpass, human capabilities of performing certain types of tasks. However, the interactions between machines and humans, in turn, the nature of impacts of AI on labour markets remains under-investigated, especially in the context of emerging economies such as India.

There is limited understanding and sparse data, particularly in the Indian context, on the size and scope of impact of AI on firms, including shifts in the quantum and nature of employment and human capital development. 

This portal is a sincere attempt to address this gap and provide an unbiased and comprehensive view for reseachers, executives and policymakers related to the field of AI in India.

In this report, we present the outputs of two research studies that were conducted with generous support from Intel.​

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In the first study, we describe the construction of occupational and sectoral indices for: (a) Suitability for Machine Learning (SML), (b) Amenability to Remote Work (RWI), and (c) Need for Human Proximity (NHP). These indices were built using the results of the Suitability to Machine Learning survey that solicited responses from more than 3000 workers across all 106 occupations in the Indian economy. The indices allow for an understanding of the heterogeneous impacts of technological change and exogeneous shocks such as the recent COVID pandemic on labor markets. Two research studies that use these indices are also presented in the report:​

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• When does work-from-home work? (Research paper available here)

• The Impact of Job Need for Human Proximity and Communication Technologies on Remote Work Efficacy (Research paper available here)  ​

In the second study, we present the results of our Future of Work survey that solicited responses from over 300 firms on their investments in AI technologies and complementary organizational changes. The study provides insights into the nature of AI adoption in firms, the nature of AI investments in firms, the impact of AI & its benefits, and firm-level changes to realize the benefits of AI.

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