India is making steady progress in adopting artificial intelligence (AI) and strengthening workforce data capabilities, but organisations continue to face challenges in translating these investments into improved workforce outcomes, according to the inaugural Human Capital Trends Study released by Aon plc.
The study found that 43 per cent of organisations in India have already deployed AI, while another 20 per cent are piloting AI programmes, signalling growing adoption across industries. However, India trails the broader Asia-Pacific (APAC) region, where 74 per cent of organisations have either deployed or are testing AI initiatives. Despite this, India stands out for its ability to attract and retain AI talent, with 39 per cent of organisations expressing confidence in sourcing skilled professionals, significantly higher than the APAC average of 21 per cent and the global average of 24 per cent.
The report also highlighted India’s strength in workforce data maturity, with 55 per cent of organisations reporting advanced HR data capabilities. In addition, 25 per cent have established a clearly defined employee value proposition, enabling closer alignment between workforce strategies and business objectives. However, gaps remain between employer expectations and employee experiences, particularly in childcare support and financial education benefits.
According to Aon, organisations should focus on scaling AI adoption alongside workforce upskilling, leveraging data-driven people strategies and improving the delivery and communication of employee benefits to ensure technology investments generate long-term business value.
Kolkata’s growing presence as an IT, fintech and business services hub positions it to benefit from India’s expanding AI adoption. Companies in the city are increasingly investing in digital transformation and skilled talent to remain competitive. However, industry observers believe organisations in Kolkata, like their counterparts across the country, will need to prioritise workforce reskilling, personalised employee benefits and stronger HR data capabilities to fully capitalise on AI-led growth and improve productivity.