Tata’s Chandrasekaran sees India’s growth go big

India is on the cusp of an unprecedented economic boom, according to Tata Sons Chairman N Chandrasekaran. In a keynote address at Sai University's convocation, the Tata chairman highlighted that the country is entering a period of growth that could be unparalleled in its history and on the global stage. Amidst rapid technological advancements, AI, and evolving regulatory landscapes, Chandrasekaran warned that graduates are stepping into a world of constant change and disruptive forces.

The chairman emphasized that artificial intelligence is set to create new sectors and opportunities, many of which are difficult to predict at present. "You are stepping into a world which has a very changing global economic, technological, disruptive, AI-led, regulatory and other changes that are constantly evolving," Chandrasekaran said.

While concerns about job displacement due to AI persist, Chandrasekaran argued that the technology also opens up new avenues for growth. He expressed optimism about the future, stating that in five years, industries not even conceived today will emerge. "There will be industries which don't exist today and people may not even know the terminology for them today," he added.

Drawing on his own experience, Chandrasekaran urged graduates to adopt a mindset of pursuing dual goals – long-term aspirations alongside shorter-term achievements. This dual approach, he argued, would help maintain momentum and sustain progress.

The Tata chairman also advocated for continuous self-improvement, cautioning against being discouraged by setbacks. He likened the journey of marathon running to career development, emphasizing the importance of measuring progress against one's own past rather than comparing oneself to others. "You have got to measure yourself on progress, continuous improvement, push yourself towards what you want to do," he said.

Chandrasekaran outlined six key qualities for graduates to cultivate in a changing economy: continuous learning, curiosity, collective work, creativity, self-reflection, and setting ambitious goals. He stressed that learning should be a lifelong habit, even after formal education concludes. "If you are not keeping pace, you will get outdated," he warned.

In addition to learning, Chandrasekaran encouraged graduates to embrace curiosity, collaborate with individuals possessing diverse skill sets, and nurture creativity, particularly in the business context. He underscored the premium placed on creativity in today's economy and advised regular reflection on actions and learning. Finally, Chandrasekaran urged the graduates to aim high, think big, and approach their professional journeys with boldness and audacity.