AI’s Impact on Jobs: Roles at Risk and Emerging Opportunities

As Artificial Intelligence (AI) becomes more ingrained in India’s workforce, it brings both opportunities and challenges. On one side, AI promises job creation in tech-intensive fields like AI development, data engineering, and cloud computing. On the other, it threatens routine, repetitive jobs that are increasingly automated by AI technologies. Experts predict growth in sectors that can adapt to AI’s demands, yet caution that many roles may become obsolete if workers fail to upgrade their skills.

India’s Growing Workforce and the Need for New Skills

India’s workforce is projected to expand from 423.73 million in 2023 to 457.62 million by 2027, according to a study by ServiceNow. The retail sector is expected to lead this growth, yet this expansion is not without transformation. For instance, roles demanding problem-solving, technical expertise, and interaction with AI tools—such as programming, data science, and cybersecurity—are on the rise. Routine retail positions, like cashiering and inventory management, are increasingly subject to automation, prompting a shift in skill requirements.

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To stay relevant, professionals across all sectors must understand and leverage AI technologies. With automation set to redefine job roles, India’s workforce must be ready for both high-tech and strategic roles that demand human oversight, creative problem-solving, and adaptability.

Vulnerable Roles: Routine and Repetitive Jobs at High Risk

AI’s primary strength is in automation, data processing, and accuracy, making it ideal for roles that involve repetitive and predictable tasks. A Deloitte report warns that AI will heavily impact jobs that focus on these routine tasks, with customer service being among the first areas affected. Here’s a look at the roles most susceptible to AI automation:

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• Customer Service and Support: Advanced AI chatbots can manage multilingual interactions, provide 24/7 support, and handle high volumes of inquiries, often outperforming human agents on routine queries. This reduces the demand for human support staff in customer service centers.
• Manufacturing and Assembly Line Work: AI-powered robotics can perform repetitive physical tasks with speed and precision, impacting jobs in assembly lines and quality control. Roles that require consistency and accuracy are increasingly being filled by machines that never tire.
• Data Entry and Processing Roles: Natural language processing and machine learning advancements enable AI to analyze, organize, and store data with higher efficiency than human workers. Data entry jobs across various sectors, from healthcare to finance, are especially vulnerable.
• Financial Clerical Work: Roles involving repetitive tasks like accounting, bookkeeping, and payroll processing are also at risk. AI algorithms can now review, organize, and process financial data, automating many tasks traditionally handled by clerical staff.

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New Opportunities Created by AI

While AI disrupts certain jobs, it also creates demand for specialized roles that require expertise in building, managing, and guiding AI applications. A report by Deloitte India and Nasscom suggests that the AI sector in India will grow by 25-35% by 2027, generating new opportunities in emerging fields such as:

• AI and Machine Learning Specialists: As more industries adopt AI, there’s a growing need for professionals who can develop, train, and fine-tune machine learning models. Enrollment in AI and machine learning courses has surged by 50%, reflecting a shift in interest among professionals looking to future-proof their careers.
• Data Engineering and Data Science: AI thrives on data, increasing demand for experts in data collection, cleaning, and pipeline development. Data engineers and scientists ensure that AI systems have high-quality data for reliable performance.
• Cybersecurity Experts: As digital ecosystems expand, securing AI systems is a priority. This creates demand for cybersecurity professionals skilled in AI applications who can protect sensitive data and manage AI-related security risks.
• AI Project Managers and Ethics Officers: The adoption of AI requires project managers familiar with AI standards and ethics officers to ensure compliance with ethical guidelines. These roles are crucial for responsible AI deployment across various sectors.

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A Balanced Future with AI

AI is reshaping India’s employment landscape. While many routine jobs may decline, new opportunities await those willing to upskill and engage with the AI-driven economy. Government initiatives, corporate training programs, and an emphasis on continuous learning can help India’s workforce harness AI as a driver of both employment and innovation, securing a balanced future where AI complements human capabilities rather than replacing them entirely.