The rapid integration of artificial intelligence (AI) across various industries is transforming the Indian enterprise landscape, creating an urgent demand for skilled professionals in AI, machine learning, and data analytics. As the nation celebrates World Youth Skills Day, leading voices in the tech industry emphasize the critical need for deeptech skilling to bridge the looming demand-supply gap in AI roles. With an anticipated shortfall of 60%-73% in key positions such as ML engineers, data scientists, and DevOps engineers, industry leaders are advocating for innovative learning and development (L&D) strategies. Through gamification, AI-driven personalized learning, and strategic partnerships with educational institutions, these approaches aim to equip the youth with essential skills, ensuring they are agile, adaptable, and prepared to lead India’s digital future.
Anjali Sharma, Associate Vice President and Global Head of L&D, Fulcrum Digital
“The rapid pace of adoption of artificial intelligence among Indian enterprises is transforming industries. In response to this AI boom, more and more tech industry players are shifting their focus towards deeptech skilling, as the demand for AI professionals is expected to reach 1 million by 2026. However, we are also expected to face a 60%-73% demand-supply gap in key roles such as ML engineers, data scientists, DevOps engineers, and data architects.
In order to continue the momentum of the country’s progress in AI adoption, enterprises have a significant role to play by leveraging innovative L&D technologies. New age tools like gamification, simulations, AI-driven personalized learning pathways, and more make training engaging and practical, aligning closely with real-world applications. These methods ensure our future workforce is not only skilled but also agile and adaptable.
The government, too, has a crucial role in fostering a supportive ecosystem for skill development. This includes accessible training programs, incentives for educational and industry partnerships, and promoting a culture of continuous learning and upskilling.
On World Youth Skills Day, we are committing to empower our youth to lead India’s digital future and maintain our competitive edge globally.”
Vasanthi Ramesh, VP – Engineering, NetApp India
As the importance of data management increases across industries, the need for the next generation to understand and utilize data efficiently is becoming essential. At NetApp, we recognize the importance of equipping young people with data analytics skills in today’s digital world. Our Data Explorers program bridges the digital divide by partnering with leading STEM and youth development NGOs to provide essential data skills to young individuals, especially in underserved communities. This initiative prepares them for a competitive, data-driven world and empowers them to address and solve pressing global challenges.
By focusing on data literacy, we are preparing the next generation to thrive in a rapidly evolving digital economy and enabling them to contribute meaningfully to innovation and societal progress.
Juveri Mukherjee, Global Head – HR, Aurionpro Solutions
Nurturing AI and machine learning skills among our youth is critical for building a dynamic, future-ready workforce. These technologies are reshaping businesses and creating new roles. By investing in young talent and providing opportunities to develop these skills, we are not only fulfilling our manpower requirements – we are cultivating innovators who will drive our organizations forward. Our role extends beyond talent acquisition; we must actively partner with educational institutions and create robust training programs to bridge the skills gap. This approach ensures a pipeline of skilled professionals and instantaneously fosters a culture of continuous learning and adaptability, essential in today’s rapidly evolving business landscape.
Lakshmi Mittra, SVP and Head of Clover Academy
As we celebrate World Youth Skills Day, it’s inspiring to see how customers, individuals, and the global community are embracing the technological revolution. Companies are adopting AI at an unprecedented rate, highlighting the critical need for continuous training and upskilling in these cutting-edge technologies. At Clover Academy, we are committed to equipping our youth with the skills required to be future-ready and to drive the profitability and innovation of the companies they will lead. By fostering a culture of learning and adaptability, we are not only preparing the next generation for success but also shaping a more resilient and prosperous future for all.
Pawan Bhageria, President – Global HR, IT, Admin and Education, Tata Technologies
“At Tata Technologies, our vision of ‘Engineering a Better World’ is centered around empowering young minds with the skills and capabilities they need to excel in their careers and lives. Recognising the significant amount of the skill gap in the EV space, in terms of R&D, maintenance, service, etc.; it is our constant endeavour to support upskilling of both students and working professionals. Our in-house skilling and partnership programs like the ‘Ready Engineer Program’, teacher training with iRISE, government partnerships to form ITIs and the InnoVent hackathon challenge, are the results of our commitment towards upskilling the youth.
We understand the critical role of the youth in driving the future of electric mobility. Today, courses in areas like AI and machine learning for EVs are becoming increasingly vital. Thus, by focusing on these emerging areas, we aspire to empower the youth to adapt to the evolving culture and contribute to shaping a sustainable future.”
