New Delhi witnessed a profound perspective on artificial intelligence from Karan Adani, Managing Director of Adani Ports and SEZ Limited, during a high-profile event. Speaking at the All India Management Association’s Platinum Jubilee celebrations marking their 70th foundation day and the 20th National Management Day, Adani asserted that AI is not a job-killer but a powerful enhancer of human productivity.
Karan Adani emphasized that AI should be embraced as a transformative tool that amplifies output, allowing fewer individuals to achieve greater results. ‘It’s about efficiency, not elimination,’ he stated, highlighting how the technology streamlines operations and propels organizations forward at unprecedented speeds.
Acknowledging potential short-term disruptions, Adani noted that rapid tech adoption might lead to temporary job reductions before skill ecosystems fully mature. He placed the onus on large corporations to spearhead structured change management, including reskilling programs to equip employees with advanced competencies.
Reflecting on his formative years, Adani shared insights from his time at a missionary school, where he imbibed values of discipline, self-reliance, and the art of connecting across diverse backgrounds. His passion for Formula 1 racing, sparked by friends in Singapore during Michael Schumacher’s dominant era, added a personal touch. ‘Every millisecond counts in F1,’ he remarked with a smile, while admitting his father views it as an extravagant hobby.
On the prospects of Formula 1 returning to India, Adani expressed optimism, underscoring how hosting global events elevates a nation’s international stature. He pointed out that currently, enthusiasts travel to Doha, Saudi Arabia, or Singapore for races, but a revival in India could showcase the country’s rich heritage on the world stage.
Delving into his professional journey, Adani recounted informing his father of his interest in port business right after college. That very night, he was dispatched to Mundra Port, spending his first year on the ground without an office or desk. This hands-on immersion across operations provided invaluable practical knowledge, shaping his leadership approach.
Adani’s vision paints AI as a collaborator in India’s growth story, urging proactive adaptation to harness its full potential while safeguarding human talent.