New Delhi: Amid growing concerns over job losses due to the rapid adoption of artificial intelligence (AI), the central government has sought to reassure workers and industry, stating that AI will generate more jobs than it displaces. S Krishnan, Secretary at the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY), said that concentrating solely on immediate employment losses presents an incomplete picture; the real challenge—and opportunity—lies in understanding the long-term transformation of the labour market.
Speaking at FICCI’s sixth All India Conclave, Krishnan noted that roles largely dependent on cognitive skills—such as data processing, routine reporting and standard analytical tasks—are more likely to be affected by AI. This, he said, has understandably heightened anxiety among office-based employees.
A Phase of Transition, not Destruction
Krishnan emphasised that the government is fully aware of the risks, but stressed that AI is more about changing jobs than eliminating them. Emerging technologies will create new roles, new skill requirements and new professional profiles across sectors.
“It is not that we are unconcerned about the adverse impact on jobs,” he said. “But our assessment is that large-scale employment opportunities will be created in new areas through reskilling, upskilling and talent development.”
Strong Push for Reskilling
The government’s strategy focuses on building skills that complement AI—such as data interpretation, AI system supervision, cybersecurity, ethics, and domain-specific expertise. Krishnan highlighted that the private sector will play a crucial role, and that collaboration between industry, government and educational institutions is essential to create a future-ready workforce at scale.
Short-term Gains Versus Long-term Impact
The MeitY Secretary cautioned that some companies may be tempted by AI’s potential to cut costs quickly, but warned that ignoring its long-term social and economic consequences could prove risky. According to him, government policy aims to strike a balance between boosting productivity and managing workforce transitions responsibly.
Government’s Stance on Regulation
On regulation, the government’s approach remains measured and pragmatic. Krishnan said that excessive new regulations could hamper innovation. Existing legal frameworks, he argued, are largely adequate to address potential misuse and risks, with scope for solutions within the current system if required.
“Our primary objective is to ensure that innovation in AI is not harmed. Innovation is India’s key competitive advantage,” he said.
A ‘Once-in-a-lifetime Opportunity’ for India
Krishnan described AI as a “once-in-a-lifetime opportunity” for India and other developing economies. The technology, he said, can accelerate growth, enhance productivity and help poorer nations fast-track their journey towards becoming developed economies.
