Bangalore, India — Cognizant CEO Ravi Kumar S., during a recent press briefing, asserted that artificial intelligence (AI) is significantly reshaping the job landscape in India, particularly for entry-level positions in technology. Kumar emphasized that the AI boom is set to generate a multitude of job opportunities, catering to young professionals eager to break into the industry.

Kumar’s statements come in the wake of a broader trend where technology companies are increasingly integrating AI into their operations. According to a report by the National Association of Software and Service Companies (NASSCOM), India’s IT sector is expected to grow to $350 billion by 2025, with AI playing a pivotal role in this growth trajectory. The report highlights that AI-related jobs could account for approximately 10% of this growth, translating to over 350,000 new roles specifically focused on AI and machine learning technologies.

This optimistic outlook aligns with Cognizant’s own hiring strategies. The company has ramped up its recruitment efforts, planning to hire an additional 20,000 employees in India by the end of 2025. Kumar remarked, “AI is not just about automating processes; it’s about creating new opportunities for talent to thrive.” This sentiment reflects a growing recognition among industry leaders that AI can lead to job creation rather than just displacement.

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However, the enthusiasm surrounding AI’s potential must be tempered with caution. Experts warn that while AI may create new jobs, it will also necessitate a shift in the skill sets required for these roles. According to a 2021 McKinsey report, approximately 87 million jobs could be displaced by 2030 due to automation, while 97 million new roles may emerge—requiring advanced technical skills, creativity, and emotional intelligence.

Educational institutions and training programs are already responding to this need, with many offering courses in AI, data science, and machine learning.

As the job market evolves, young professionals must adapt to stay competitive. This involves upskilling and reskilling to meet the demands of an AI-driven economy. Educational institutions and training programs are already responding to this need, with many offering courses in AI, data science, and machine learning. For example, upskilling platforms like Coursera and Udacity have seen a surge in enrollments for AI-related courses, indicating a proactive approach among young tech enthusiasts.

Moreover, the gig economy is also witnessing a transformation. Freelancing platforms such as Upwork and Fiverr are increasingly offering AI-related projects, providing opportunities for young professionals to engage in short-term contracts and build their portfolios. As companies look for flexible talent to manage specific AI tasks, this segment of the workforce is becoming crucial.

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The implications of AI-driven job creation extend beyond just the tech industry. As companies across sectors begin to leverage AI for various functions, the demand for entry-level positions will likely increase in areas such as marketing, sales, and customer service. A report by Gartner predicts that by 2025, 70% of customer interactions will involve emerging technologies including AI, further integrating these tools into everyday business practices.

In light of these developments, young professionals in India and beyond are presented with unique opportunities. The key will be to remain adaptable and embrace lifelong learning. Organizations must also foster environments that encourage innovation and skill development, helping employees transition into new roles as job requirements evolve.

Organizations must also foster environments that encourage innovation and skill development, helping employees transition into new roles as job requirements evolve.

Ultimately, the narrative surrounding AI and job creation is not merely about technology but about the future of work itself. As Cognizant’s CEO suggests, we stand on the precipice of a new era where AI not only transforms industries but also opens doors for the next generation of workers. By investing in education and skills development now, young professionals can ensure they are well-positioned to seize the opportunities that will arise in this rapidly changing landscape.

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