India Inc AI Readiness: RoI & Security Challenges

Indian businesses are eager to use artificial intelligence, but face significant challenges. Cisco's latest AI Readiness Index shows that over 80% of organizations want to integrate AI agents this year. However, less than 30% feel ready from a security, infrastructure, and data standpoint. This highlights a gap between ambition and preparedness. Parminder Singh of Reliance Enterprise Intelligence notes that companies need to determine which AI model best suits each workflow, rather than just using the newest ones. For financial services, even a single AI error can have major consequences. Ambarish Kenghe of Angel One points out three key risks: AI generating incorrect information, sensitive data leakage, and unpredictable autonomous systems. He stresses building security into AI from the start. Pawan Sharma of Tata Motors Digital.AI Labs also calls for "secure by design" AI systems. He explains that AI systems are less predictable now, requiring a broader approach to security involving business process owners. Amol Deshpande of RPG Group advises evaluating business value and preparing employees before wide AI deployment. Prashant Thakkar of LIC Mutual Funds emphasizes resisting flashy AI and focusing on practical applications. He also asks if businesses can "plug out" a rogue AI and continue operations. The bottom line is that while AI offers great potential, addressing security, governance, and readiness is crucial for successful implementation.