Building core AI products requires specialized skills in areas such as machine learning, deep learning, natural language processing, and computer vision. While many engineering graduates may have a foundational understanding of these concepts, acquiring expertise in advanced AI techniques often requires additional training, experience, and practical exposure.
Indian firms are at the forefront of adopting AI, and are making significant investments in enhancing the skills of their workforce, with Tata Consultancy Services training 350,000 employees in AI skills, and Infosys training eight out of its ten employees for AI tasks. But the number of active senior AI engineers capable of working on core AI products and services such as AI-based apps and platforms is less than 2,000.
The core engineering of AI products has traditionally been concentrated in high niche micro-talent pools, often operating outside India. While India has made significant strides in the IT sector and has a large pool of engineering talent, the development of AI technology has seen relatively minor footprints in the country compared to other regions.
The Indian education system, while producing a large number of engineering graduates annually, may not always provide comprehensive training in cutting-edge AI technologies. Curricula may need to be updated to incorporate emerging trends in AI and ensure that students receive hands-on experience with relevant tools and techniques.
Research and development in AI is essential for pushing the boundaries of innovation and developing new algorithms, models, and applications. While India has made strides in AI research, there may be a need for greater investment and collaboration between academia, industry, and government to foster a thriving ecosystem for AI innovation.
The need to build expertise in AI often requires hands-on experience working on real-world projects and exposure to diverse problem domains. Senior engineers typically accrue this experience over time through participation in projects, collaborations, and continuous learning. Providing opportunities for engineers to gain practical experience in AI-related projects can help nurture talent in this field.
The demand for AI talent is high globally, leading to competition for skilled professionals. Tech giants, startups, and research institutions worldwide are actively recruiting AI talent, which can make it challenging for organizations in India to attract and retain senior engineers with expertise in AI.
Addressing these challenges requires a multi-faceted approach involving investments in education and research, curriculum reform, industry-academia collaboration, skill development initiatives, and efforts to retain talent within the country.
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