AI Will Reshape Jobs, Not Replace Them: Microsoft
Microsoft India and South Asia President Puneet Chandok has said artificial intelligence will transform how jobs are performed rather than eliminate them, pushing back against fears of large-scale job losses due to automation. Speaking on the impact of AI on the workforce, Chandok said technology has historically changed the nature of work and AI will follow the same pattern.
AI to Break Tasks, Not Entire Roles
According to Chandok, AI is more likely to “dissect” jobs by automating specific tasks within roles, allowing humans to focus on higher-value work such as decision-making, creativity, and problem-solving. He noted that most jobs consist of multiple tasks, and AI will handle repetitive or time-consuming elements rather than fully replacing workers.
He added that organisations adopting AI will see productivity gains, but this will also require employees to continuously reskill and adapt. Chandok stressed that digital skills, data literacy, and the ability to work alongside AI systems will become essential across sectors.
Need for Skilling and Responsible Adoption
Chandok also highlighted the responsibility of companies, governments, and educational institutions to invest in large-scale skilling initiatives. He said India, with its young workforce, is well positioned to benefit from AI if it focuses on training and responsible deployment.
Microsoft, he said, is investing in AI skilling programmes to help professionals and students prepare for future roles. Chandok emphasised that the real risk lies not in AI itself, but in failing to adapt to the changes it brings.
