Comm min identifying AI-proof professions, sectors where India can take global lead: Goyal

Union Minister Piyush Goyal revealed the commerce ministry's efforts to identify AI-proof professions to help India take the global lead in the face of an ever-evolving technological landscape. Goyal emphasized that the focus would be on sectors where AI can enhance efficiency without replacing human workers, leveraging India's vast pool of skilled talent, youthful population, and traditional strengths.

The minister highlighted sectors such as handicrafts, handloom, culinary arts, and tourism as areas where India has a special strength that is difficult to replace with AI. Goyal expressed that these sectors would remain crucial for India as it aims to create a better life for its 1.4 billion people. The government plans to support these sectors where necessary, but incentives won't be required for every activity.

Instead, a mix of initiatives will be implemented, including private-led, government-led, people-led, and opportunity-led approaches. Goyal also spoke about attracting Indian researchers, engineers, and scientists working abroad to return to India and contribute to the country's development. He noted that attracting talent requires more than just financial incentives; a supportive ecosystem for research and innovation is equally important.

Goyal further discussed India's future global growth prospects, emphasizing that developed countries would increasingly engage with emerging economies in Asia, Africa, and Latin America. He highlighted the enthusiasm of the large Indian student community in Germany and mentioned the importance of returning to India to contribute to the nation's growth story.