Responsible AI to ease work, lead to better outcomes, shows study

Nearly six out of 10 Indians believe artificial intelligence (AI) when used responsibly, will make work easier leading to better outcomes, according to a survey published on Tuesday. The survey conducted by German multinational engineering and technology company Bosch which polled people from seven countries including India also noted that 58% Indians consider AI to be the most relevant technology in the future up by 17 percentage points since its 2023 Annual Tech Compass Survey conducted last year.

Globally, nearly two-thirds (64%) of respondents rank AI as the most influential technology in near future, with a stronger sense of optimism among Indians, 76% of whom personally feel prepared for the upcoming era of AI led interventions. 

Conducted across Brazil, China, France, Germany, India, the United Kingdom, and the United States, the Bosch Tech Compass survey aims to explore global perspectives on emerging technologies, encompassing people’s attitudes, beliefs, expectations, concerns, and more.
Speaking to TechCircle, Guruprasad Mudlapur, President of the Bosch Group in India, and Managing Director, Bosch Limited, said that the survey reflects India’s increasing acceptance and enthusiasm towards emerging technologies like AI. 

“India is keen on AI-powered solutions across diverse sectors such as sustainability, mobility, manufacturing, and even daily life. At Bosch, we recognize the potential of AI and are committed to implementing it responsibly to deliver a safer experience for everyone.” he said. 

The survey shows that India (80%) and 73% globally advocate for generative AI being as relevant as the rise of the internet. To be sure, generative AI spending by Indian companies will increase by nearly 165% to $386 billion in the next 12 months, according to a recent research published on 27 January by the Infosys Knowledge Institute, the research arm of Infosys. The report added that companies across Asia-Pacific region will nearly triple their Gen AI investments to $3.4 billion in 2024.

Notably, 81% of Indians, and 71% of global respondents feel that AI’s progress shall be key to combating climate change. The report also noted that nearly eight out of 10 (79%) Indians agree on the mandatory labelling of AI content, an approach that fosters transparency, reinforces accuracy, and empowers users to scrutinize and cite the source of AI-generated information. 

According to a survey by PwC, published in December 2023, more than half or nearly 51% of Indians believe AI can make their work lives more productive. The optimism, however, was rooted in the hope that their workplaces will provide the right opportunities to learn new skills, as per the report.

PwC's Anumeha Singh points out that employees today want more than just a good salary. They seek job satisfaction, growth opportunities, and a work environment that adapts to change. Singh suggests that for businesses to thrive, leaders need to make smart choices in shaping flexible work structures and career paths.

The Bosch survey also raises concerns around the negative impact of humanoid and service robots as well. A large number (56%) of respondents especially stressed the need for education to get prepared for AI and implement it responsibly. The nuanced understanding of complexities around advanced technologies reflects the need for responsible deployment in the future. As the PwC India report also stressed the urgency for businesses to invest in upskilling and focus on integrating AI into day-to-day operations will be crucial for long-term success.