Master AI Tools to Boost Your Skills, Says Microsoft India President
▼ Summary
– Puneet Chandok emphasizes that AI fluency is crucial and must be developed through hands-on practice, not just theory or observation.
– He believes AI enhances cognitive abilities by automating routine tasks, allowing users to focus on value-added and judgment-driven work.
– New AI-related roles such as agent managers and prompt engineers are emerging, requiring constant upskilling as job profiles evolve.
– India is a rapidly growing AI market, projected to triple to $17 billion by 2027, with over 600,000 AI professionals expected to double by then.
– The BCG report highlights AI’s transformative impact across sectors, improving efficiency and unlocking new growth pathways in India’s robust digital ecosystem.
Mastering artificial intelligence tools has become a critical skill for professionals aiming to thrive in today’s technology-driven economy. According to Microsoft India President Puneet Chandok, AI fluency is not just beneficial, it’s essential. He emphasizes that theoretical knowledge alone is insufficient; real competence comes from hands-on experience with AI platforms and applications.
Chandok dismisses concerns that AI might weaken human cognitive abilities, arguing instead that it enhances them. By automating repetitive and mundane tasks, AI allows individuals to concentrate on strategic, creative, and high-value work. This shift not only improves productivity but also fosters more meaningful and engaging roles within organizations.
The Microsoft executive encourages young professionals and students to actively experiment with AI tools. He uses a relatable analogy: just as you can’t get fit by watching others exercise, you can’t learn AI by observing, you have to dive in and use the technology yourself. This practical engagement is what builds true expertise and confidence.
New career paths are rapidly emerging thanks to AI, including roles like AI agent managers, prompt engineers, and AI orchestrators. Many of these positions didn’t exist just a year ago, highlighting how quickly the job market is evolving. Chandok stresses that continuous upskilling is vital to keep pace with these changes and seize new opportunities.
Beyond technical skills, Chandok points to the growing importance of soft skills such as resilience, adaptability, and a growth mindset. These qualities, combined with AI proficiency, will define success in the workplaces of the future. Organizations, too, must remain agile, constantly realigning their strategies and investments to meet shifting market and customer demands.
India is positioning itself as a global leader in AI adoption and innovation. With over 700 million internet users and strong digital infrastructure, including platforms like UPI, the country offers a fertile ground for scalable and cost-effective AI solutions. The domestic AI market is projected to grow dramatically, reaching an estimated $17 billion by 2027.
This growth is supported by a robust talent pool. India already boasts more than 600,000 AI professionals, a number expected to double within the next few years. The country accounts for 16% of the world’s AI talent, second only to the United States, underscoring its significant demographic and educational advantages.
AI is already delivering tangible benefits across sectors. In finance, it has reduced underwriting time by up to 70%. Retailers are seeing conversion rates improve by 10–15%, while media companies have slashed production costs by over 80%. In healthcare, AI enables advanced diagnostics and expands access through remote consultations.
This transformative impact confirms that AI is much more than a tool for efficiency, it’s a catalyst for innovation, growth, and entirely new business models. For individuals and companies alike, embracing AI with a practical, forward-looking approach is no longer optional, it’s imperative.
(Source: The Hindu)