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Half of India’s Tech Workforce Embraces AI Training Trend
Half of India’s Tech Workforce Embraces AI Training Trend

June 24, 2025

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The Indian tech industry is undergoing a transformative shift, with artificial intelligence (AI) at the forefront of this evolution. A recent report by Naukri.com reveals that nearly 50% of Indian tech professionals are now receiving AI training at their workplaces, signaling a significant move toward structured upskilling in this rapidly advancing field. This blog explores the implications of this trend, its drivers, and what it means for India’s tech ecosystem, backed by verified data and authoritative sources.

Why AI Training Is Gaining Momentum in India

The surge in AI training reflects India’s ambition to cement its position as a global AI hub. With projections estimating a demand for 1 million AI professionals by 2026, organizations are prioritizing structured training to meet this need. The integration of AI into mainstream business operations is no longer optional—it’s a necessity to stay competitive in a tech-driven world.
 

Key Drivers of AI Upskilling

  • Industry Demand: The Indian AI market is expected to triple to $17 billion by 2027, driven by enterprise adoption and a robust talent pool.

  • Educational Reforms: The All-India-meet this demand. The number of B.Tech seats has increased, particularly in Computer Science and AI-related fields, reflecting the industry's strong need for AI talent.

  • Government Initiatives: The IndiaAI Mission, supported by programs like OpenAI Academy, is promoting AI education at undergraduate, postgraduate, and doctoral levels, offering fellowships to PhD students in top institutions.

  • Corporate Commitment: A survey by Amazon Web Services (AWS) found that 83% of Indian companies have appointed chief AI officers to accelerate AI adoption, underscoring the focus on structured training.

These factors highlight a concerted effort to bridge the AI skills gap, ensuring India’s workforce is ready for the future.
 

The Impact of AI Training on Tech Professionals

The Naukri.com survey, conducted with over 16,000 professionals, shows that one in three tech workers is undergoing formal AI training, with freshers being significant beneficiaries. This shift is reshaping career trajectories and workplace dynamics.
 

Benefits for Professionals

  • Career Advancement: A TeamLease Edtech report noted that 42% of professionals who upskilled experienced career advancements within 18 months.

  • Job Security: With 73% of professionals in large companies confident about job retention in FY26, AI skills are becoming a safeguard against automation-driven layoffs.

  • Skill Diversification: Training in generative AI, cloud computing, and data science is equipping professionals to handle complex, creative tasks, moving beyond routine roles.
     

Challenges to Overcome

Despite the progress, barriers remain:

  • Time Constraints: 20% of professionals cite insufficient time for upskilling due to heavy workloads.

  • Outdated Tech Stacks: 17% report frustration with working on legacy systems, limiting their ability to apply new skills.

  • Self-Funding: 46% of professionals are self-funding their learning initiatives, as only 23.9% of employers offer full sponsorship.

These challenges highlight the need for organizations to provide flexible, accessible training programs to maximize upskilling efforts.
 

The Role of Structured Training in India’s Tech Ecosystem

The shift from self-learning to structured corporate training is a game-changer. In tech hubs like Bengaluru and Gurgaon, 33% of professionals confirm active AI training programs at their workplaces. This trend is particularly pronounced in large organizations, where structured initiatives are becoming the norm.

Structured vs. Self-Learning

  • Structured Training: Offers guided learning, access to cutting-edge tools, and mentorship, ensuring professionals gain practical, job-relevant skills.

  • Self-Learning: While still popular, especially among early-career professionals, it lacks the consistency and depth of corporate programs.

Structured training is critical for scaling AI adoption, as it aligns employee skills with organizational goals, fostering innovation and efficiency.
 

The Broader Implications for India’s Tech Industry

The rise in AI training is not just about individual growth—it’s about positioning India as a global leader in AI innovation. With 16% of the world’s AI talent pool, India is second only to the US, boasting over 600,000 AI professionals. However, the journey is not without risks.

Opportunities

  • Economic Growth: The Indian AI industry is projected to grow at a 45% CAGR, reaching $28.8 billion by 2025.

  • Innovation Ecosystem: Universities like Symbiosis and Mahindra are integrating AI into curricula, emphasizing experiential learning through internships and research initiatives.

  • Global Competitiveness: Companies like Pocket FM and NoBroker are leveraging AI to reduce costs and streamline operations, showcasing India’s potential to lead in AI applications.

Risks

  • Job Displacement: Automation has led to significant layoffs, with over 50,000 IT jobs cut in 2024 due to AI-driven efficiencies.

  • Skills Gap: Only 31% of professionals feel well-prepared to use AI tools effectively, indicating a need for more comprehensive training.

  • AI Washing: Cases like Builder.ai, where manual coding was misrepresented as AI-driven, highlight the risks of overhyping AI capabilities.

Balancing these opportunities and risks requires responsible AI adoption, prioritizing reskilling and ethical governance.
 

How Organizations Can Support AI Upskilling

To maximize the benefits of AI training, companies must adopt a strategic approach:

  • Invest in Leadership: Appointing chief AI officers can streamline training initiatives and ensure alignment with business goals.

  • Foster Collaboration: Cross-functional teams and Centres of Excellence can drive innovation and knowledge-sharing.

  • Provide Resources: Offering time, funding, and access to modern tech stacks can address barriers to upskilling.

  • Emphasize Soft Skills: Tools like Udemy’s Role Play can complement technical training by enhancing communication and leadership skills.
     

The Future of AI Training in India

The trajectory of AI training in India is clear: it’s a critical component of the nation’s tech evolution. With government backing, corporate investment, and educational reforms, India is well-positioned to meet the demand for 1 million AI professionals by 2026. However, success depends on addressing challenges like time constraints, outdated technology, and equitable access to training.

Steps for Professionals

  • Stay Proactive: Engage in both self-learning and corporate programs to stay competitive.

  • Leverage Free Resources: Platforms like IIT Madras’ SWAYAM Plus offer free AI courses to bridge knowledge gaps.

  • Focus on Generative AI: As the most sought-after skill, generative AI expertise can future-proof careers.
     

Conclusion

The rise of AI training among Indian tech professionals marks a pivotal moment for the industry. With nearly 50% of tech workers receiving AI upskilling support, India is building a workforce ready to lead in the global AI race. By addressing challenges and fostering a culture of continuous learning, organizations and professionals can harness AI’s potential to drive innovation, growth, and opportunity. As India navigates this transformative era, the focus on structured training will be key to unlocking a future where technology and human potential work hand in hand.


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