India has emerged as the global leader in generative AI adoption, with 92% of employees using GenAI tools regularly at work—significantly higher than the global average of 72%, according to a new report by Boston Consulting Group. This widespread adoption highlights India’s early embrace of artificial intelligence in the workplace, placing it ahead of the Middle East, Spain, and other countries in the global South.
The survey, which included 10,600 workers across 11 countries, also found that India ranks second worldwide in the integration of AI agents, with 17% of employees reporting the use of agentic AI in workflows. Yet, this high adoption rate has also given rise to growing unease, particularly about job security and the unclear functioning of these tools.
Confusion Around AI Agents and Growing Concerns
While AI usage has become mainstream, understanding remains low. Only 33% of Indian employees report a clear understanding of how AI agents actually function. Nevertheless, 77% believe these tools will play a critical role in the next three to five years. This indicates a disconnect between usage and comprehension—most companies remain in early-stage experimentation with AI tools, without full integration into their operations.
Job security is also becoming a serious concern. Nearly half (48%) of Indian workers believe their job could disappear entirely within the next 10 years due to automation and AI—higher than the global average of 41%. Employees also raised issues around trust, with 46% concerned about AI making decisions without human oversight, 35% wary of potential bias, and 32% unsure about accountability in case of mistakes.
Also read: India’s AI Workforce Set for Major Expansion
Training, Tools and Leadership Support Are Falling Short
Despite high adoption, foundational enablers for successful GenAI implementation remain weak. Only 36% of Indian employees feel adequately trained, and lack of in-person coaching is directly linked to lower usage rates. Tool access is also a significant issue—37% say their workplace doesn’t provide the right GenAI tools, pushing 54% of workers to turn to unauthorized alternatives. Among Gen Z and Millennials, that number jumps to 62%.
Leadership backing is another critical factor. Only 25% of frontline workers report active leadership support for GenAI initiatives. When such support is present, regular AI usage more than doubles—from 41% to 82%. It also leads to improved job satisfaction and greater optimism about future career prospects.
Way Forward for Sustainable GenAI Integration
To ensure the long-term success of GenAI in Indian workplaces, organisations must move beyond early adoption and focus on deep integration. This includes structured training programs, access to authorised tools, clear governance protocols, and ongoing leadership engagement. Without these, India risks high AI usage without the strategic infrastructure to manage its impact on employees, productivity, and workplace culture.
