AI: From Trend to Reality, Shaping Businesses in 2025

New Delhi, Dec 29 (PTI) - Artificial intelligence (AI) has become an integral part of business strategy across various sectors, transforming industries and creating new roles as technology becomes increasingly human-like and pervasive.
"We are working towards a future where AI is integrated seamlessly into everyday operations beyond the honeymoon period and into a mature phase," said Anup Purohit, Wipro CIO. "This growth isn't confined to technology firms; conventional sectors like banking, finance, and healthcare are also progressively integrating AI to improve operational efficiency and boost customer engagement."
The global AI market is valued at approximately USD 235 billion and projected to grow to over USD 631 billion by 2028, according to Nasscom. Emerging technologies such as quantum computing and federated learning are poised to redefine the AI landscape and open new frontiers.
Industry experts believe that 2025 will mark the true dawn of agentic AI - a new era where AI systems move beyond being reactive assistants to becoming proactive, autonomous agents capable of transforming customer engagement, business efficiency, and decision-making. "AI agents will significantly enhance business processes by improving efficiency and customer service," said Purohit.
Additionally, cloud computing continues to gain traction, with major players like Amazon Web Services and Microsoft Azure expanding their footprints in India. According to research firm IDC, the overall Indian public cloud services market is expected to reach USD 24.2 billion by 2028, growing at a CAGR of 23.8 per cent for 2023-28.
However, with the rapid evolution of technology, there will be a significant demand-supply gap for skilled talent in the industry, according to Purohit. "Future professionals will need to build deeper business and communications skills, such as listening, problem-solving, as well as specific domain expertise to leverage AI to solve complex business problems," he said.
The rapid growth of AI is also reshaping the job landscape, and demand for skilled talent is set to soar across sectors. Companies will require individuals who can bridge the gap between technology and business strategy, according to TCS CTO Harrick Vin. "AI/Gen AI will impact knowledge work (white-collar work) in ways that no prior technology has, and this is likely to cause significant and continuous shifts in knowledge work (the what) and ways of working (the how) for all businesses," he said.
To adapt to the AI boom, professionals entering the tech industry in 2025 should be prepared with a robust blend of technical expertise and soft skills, including adaptability, emotional intelligence, and strong communication abilities.