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India’s AI-Ready Workforce Outpaces Global Trends: Kyndryl

India’s AI-Ready Workforce Outpaces Global Trends: Kyndryl

India has emerged as a global frontrunner in preparing its workforce for the age of artificial intelligence, according to Kyndryl’s latest People Readiness Report. While nearly all surveyed businesses (95%) across the globe have implemented AI, only 14% have successfully matched that with meaningful workforce transformation. In contrast, India shows stronger alignment: 37% of Indian leaders say their employees are fully prepared for AI today, and 57% believe they’re future-ready.

The report, based on insights from over 1,000 senior leaders across industries and regions, reveals a widening gap between AI deployment and employee readiness worldwide. Yet India appears to buck this trend. A remarkable 72% of Indian executives are focused on upskilling their existing workforce, instead of relying on new hires.

A particularly employee-first finding: 41% of Indian firms have adopted human-centric AI systems—tools designed to support employee well-being and engagement rather than simply boost efficiency.

Despite the optimism, integration challenges remain. Over half of Indian leaders (61%) cite difficulties in blending AI with legacy systems, and 52% admit to facing critical skill shortages. Globally, a trust deficit also persists: 45% of CEOs believe their employees remain sceptical or even resistant to AI in the workplace.

“Being AI-ready isn’t just about systems—it’s about people,” said Maryjo Charbonnier, Chief Human Resources Officer at Kyndryl. “The organisations leading in AI today are those actively building employee trust, transparency and talent pathways.”

The report highlights that successful companies—termed “AI Pacesetters”—are those investing in skill audits, change management, and cultural alignment to foster an AI-positive workplace. These companies are 67% more likely to have accurate skill inventories and three times more likely to have a change strategy in place.

In a time when AI investments are surging but talent alignment is lacking, India’s people-first approach may be setting the global standard for truly future-ready workplaces.

 

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