‘Skilling is new resilience’: Microsoft India President Puneet Chandok maps future of work in AI era

Artificial intelligence (AI) is no longer just a futuristic concept or a pilot project; it has become a transformative force reshaping business operations globally.

Puneet Chandok, President of Microsoft India and South Asia, emphasizes that India holds a unique advantage in the global AI race due to its robust digital public infrastructure.

This infrastructure, which includes platforms that serve classrooms, healthcare clinics, farms, and factories, enables AI technologies to scale efficiently and impact a vast population.

Chandok highlights that when AI is integrated with these digital systems, it can drive mass adoption and create significant economic and social benefits.

However, he also stresses that the rapid adoption of AI demands a parallel focus on skilling the workforce.

According to Chandok, "skilling is the new resilience," meaning that equipping people with AI-related skills is essential to thrive in this evolving landscape.

This approach ensures that the workforce can adapt to new roles and leverage AI tools effectively, minimizing disruption and maximizing opportunity.

India's digital infrastructure combined with a strong emphasis on skill development positions the country to lead in the AI era, fostering inclusive growth and innovation.

As businesses increasingly embed AI into their operations, the future of work will be defined by continuous learning and adaptability.

Chandok’s insights underscore the critical interplay between technology and human capital, suggesting that success in the AI age depends on both technological capability and the readiness of people to harness it.