The use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in India is no longer limited to data analysis or chatbots. The technological landscape has advanced to a point where AI is capable of making independent decisions, without human intervention. This new technological leap is termed Agentic AI – artificial intelligence that operates fully autonomously.
A recent global report released by Salesforce highlights the rapidly increasing demand for Agentic AI worldwide, including India. This technology particularly signals a new revolution in India's Human Resources (HR) sector.
Agentic AI: What is this technology?
Agentic AI refers to AI technology capable of making decisions, solving problems, and taking action without human assistance or intervention. This technology surpasses traditional AI due to its autonomy. It functions as a 'digital worker,' not only understanding commands but also formulating its own strategies.
Report Findings:
Salesforce's report surveyed 200 CHROs (Chief Human Resource Officers) globally. According to the report, India could see a 383% increase in Agentic AI adoption by 2027. This striking figure demonstrates India's rapid transition towards a digital workforce.
Furthermore, the report projects a 41.7% average increase in productivity over the next two years through the use of AI agents. This translates to companies achieving more and better work in less time.
Perspective of Indian HR Leaders
- Senior officials in India's HR sector are highly enthusiastic about Agentic AI.
- 88% of CHROs believe that retraining their employees will be necessary to adopt this technology.
- A potential shift in 24.7% of employee roles is anticipated, as digital agents will now work alongside humans.
- 81% of HR leaders believe that soft skills such as teamwork and communication have become more critical than ever.
Nathalie Scardino, President and Chief People Officer at Salesforce, stated, “Every sector will have to redesign its jobs. A blend of both technical skills and human and strategic skills will now be essential.”
Digital Labor Becoming the New Standard
While AI was once viewed as a support tool, it is now becoming a core part of the workforce. According to the report, 85% of Indian HR professionals believe that human employees and digital agents will work together as a team within the next 5 years.
However, currently, only 12% of CHROs have fully implemented Agentic AI within their organizations. This indicates that most companies are still preparing for this shift.
Balancing AI and Human Skills is Crucial
Amidst the growing influence of Agentic AI, the primary challenge lies in establishing the right balance between humans and machines. While technology can make decisions, it lacks human empathy, ethics, and compassion.
Therefore, Indian companies should invest not only in technological infrastructure but also in the reskilling and upskilling of their employees.
Employee Concerns and Lack of Awareness
The report also revealed an interesting aspect: over 60% of HR professionals believe their employees have yet to grasp the impact of AI on their careers.
This clarifies that while leadership is prepared to adopt this technology, employees still lack clarity regarding its utility, role, and potential implications.
