PM Modi's reassurance amid concerns over job losses due to AI: 'Preparation best antidote to fear'

• PM Modi: Innovation creates opportunities, not just job loss
• India investing in skilling youth for an AI-driven future
• AI seen as a force-multiplier for inclusive growth and new jobs

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Amid the ongoing global debate on the impact of Artificial Intelligence (AI) on jobs, Prime Minister Narendra Modi has said that history has taught humanity that innovation always creates newer opportunities for people.

In an interview to news agency ANI, PM Modi gave a detailed reply to a question regarding the fear among youth that AI will take away their jobs and how India is tackling the challenge.

The Prime Minister noted the concerns of the younger generation on AI-driven disruptions in the job market but added that preparation is the best antidote to such fears.

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"I understand the concern of our youth about AI-driven disruptions in the job market. Preparation is the best antidote to fear. That is why we have been investing in skilling and re-skilling our people for an AI-driven future," he said.

PM Modi outlined the steps taken by the Centre to prepare India for an AI-driven future, saying that his government is not looking at this as a "future problem" but as a "present imperative".

"The Government has launched one of the most ambitious skilling initiatives in the world. We're not approaching this as a future problem but we're treating it as a present imperative. I view AI as a force-multiplier which will further help us push the boundaries of what we thought possible. It will help doctors and teachers and lawyers to reach out to and help a larger group of people," he said.

On the fears around the technology, PM Modi said that history has shown that work does not disappear due to technology. "Its nature changes and new types of jobs are created. While some jobs may be redefined, digital transformation will also add new tech jobs to India's economy," he said.

PM Modi added: "For centuries, there have been fears that innovation and technological revolutions will eliminate jobs. Yet history teaches us that whenever innovation happens, new opportunities emerge. The same will be true in the age of AI."

He said that India is already well equipped to adapt to the change brought about by AI.

"In the Stanford Global AI Vibrancy Index 2025, India ranked 3rd, reflecting strong growth in AI R&D, talent, and economy. Combining innovation with inclusion, we are confident that AI will strengthen India's workforce. With the right skills and preparation, our youth will lead the future of work," he noted.

The remarks come amid statements by various tech leaders and global experts regarding the impact of AI on jobs, with several people warning that white collar jobs may face an existential crisis in the coming years with the growth of automated processes.

During the interview, PM Modi also struck a positive note on India's AI journey, saying that the technology represents a transformative opportunity in the country's journey towards Viksit Bharat 2047.

"Leveraging AI mindfully, with a strategic lens, helps address deep developmental challenges while creating entirely new economic opportunities, enabling inclusive growth, bridging the urban-rural divide and expanding access to opportunity," he said.