Indian IT Leaders Embrace Agentic AI to Drive Business Growth, Survey Finds

A recent survey conducted by technology consultancy Thoughtworks reveals a significant shift in how Indian IT leaders approach artificial intelligence (AI) adoption compared to their Western counterparts. The study, which gathered insights from 3,500 C-suite and senior IT decision makers across seven countries—including 500 from India—highlights that nearly half of Indian IT leaders (48%) prioritize agentic AI. Agentic AI refers to autonomous systems capable of acting, reasoning, and adapting independently, marking a departure from traditional AI applications focused primarily on efficiency improvements.

This enthusiasm for agentic AI among Indian IT executives contrasts with the Western market, where the emphasis remains largely on leveraging AI to enhance existing operational efficiencies. Indian leaders view agentic AI as a strategic tool for business growth, signaling a broader ambition to transform business models and create new value streams. This approach underscores India's growing confidence in adopting advanced AI technologies that can make independent decisions and drive innovation.

Moreover, the survey highlights that the majority of Indian IT leaders perceive AI as a complement to human talent rather than a replacement. This perspective suggests a balanced approach to AI integration, where technology augments the capabilities of the workforce, enhancing productivity and enabling employees to focus on higher-value tasks. Such a stance is crucial in addressing concerns about job displacement while maximizing the benefits of AI-driven automation.

The findings also reflect a broader trend within the Indian IT sector, which has historically been a global leader in technology services and innovation. By embracing agentic AI, Indian companies aim to maintain their competitive edge and capitalize on emerging opportunities in AI-driven markets. This strategy could position India as a hub for advanced AI development and deployment, attracting investments and fostering a robust ecosystem for AI innovation.

However, the adoption of agentic AI also brings challenges, including ethical considerations, governance, and the need for robust frameworks to ensure responsible AI use. Indian IT leaders will need to address these issues proactively to harness the full potential of agentic AI while mitigating risks. The survey underscores the importance of strategic planning and collaboration among stakeholders to navigate the complexities of AI adoption effectively.

In summary, the Thoughtworks survey sheds light on the distinct approach Indian IT leaders are taking towards AI, emphasizing agentic AI's role in driving growth and augmenting human talent. This trend not only differentiates India from Western markets but also signals a transformative phase in the global AI landscape, with India poised to play a pivotal role.