Satya Nadella calls for US-India AI collaboration amidst 2 million skilled by 2025 initiative

On February 7, 2024, Microsoft’s CEO, Satya Nadella, emphasised the need for collaboration between India and the US in crafting regulations for Artificial Intelligence (AI), highlighting its potential to foster equitable economic growth.

Nadella, an Indian-born executive leading the global tech giant, announced Microsoft’s initiative to train 20 lakh (2 million) Indians in AI by 2025, underlining the importance of empowering the workforce in adapting to new technologies.

Speaking at an event attended by business leaders from various sectors, Nadella discussed the transformative impact of AI on India’s GDP growth, citing projections that AI’s contribution could reach $ 500 billion by 2025, coinciding with the nation’s overall GDP target of $ 5 trillion.

He highlighted the significance of AI adoption across diverse sectors, noting examples such as Tata Group’s Air India implementing AI for customer service and various other Indian enterprises and nonprofits leveraging AI tools for operational efficiency.

Nadella also pointed out AI’s potential to advance scientific research, suggesting that India’s substantial investment in core basic science could facilitate significant progress in the field.

During his visit, Nadella is expected to meet with prominent Indian business leaders, including those from State Bank of India (SBI), underscoring Microsoft’s commitment to fostering collaboration and innovation in India’s evolving technological landscape.