Indian Executives Confident in Best-in-Class IT Infrastructure Yet Doubt Risk Preparedness, Says Report

Most Indian executives feel confident about their IT infrastructure, considering it top-notch. However, only half trust its readiness for future challenges, according to a report released on Wednesday. The 2024 Kyndryl Readiness Report draws insights from the AI-driven Kyndryl Bridge platform and a survey of 3,200 senior decision-makers across 25 industries in 18 global markets, including healthcare, manufacturing, energy, and finance.

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In India, 88% of business leaders believe their IT systems are best-in-class. Yet, only 44% think these systems are prepared for future risks. Globally, India leads with an average readiness score of 35% across various risks. This indicates a gap between perceived excellence and actual preparedness among Indian executives.

Technology Modernisation and Compliance Challenges

The report highlights that 94% of Indian leaders prioritise technology modernisation. However, 44% of mission-critical IT infrastructure is nearing or has reached end-of-life. This situation increases vulnerabilities and complicates efforts to modernise systems. Additionally, regulatory compliance is a significant concern, with many executives feeling that policy changes are happening too quickly.

Martin Schroeter, Chairman and CEO of Kyndryl, stressed the need to align technology with organisational culture to effectively address these challenges. He noted that readiness is an ongoing issue and advocated for a comprehensive approach that empowers employees while integrating new technologies into business processes.

AI Adoption and Skill Gaps

India is leading in AI adoption, with 85% of business leaders investing in AI technologies. Despite this enthusiasm, the return on investment in AI is limited by skills shortages, compliance issues, and compatibility concerns. The report identifies a significant skill gap: 27% among Indian leaders in AI and 10% in data science and analytics. These gaps hinder the full potential utilisation of AI technologies.

The findings underscore the importance of addressing these skill gaps to maximise the benefits of AI investments. Bridging these gaps could enhance the effectiveness of AI applications across various sectors in India.

The report concludes that while Indian executives are optimistic about their IT infrastructure's current state, there is a need for strategic improvements. Addressing skill shortages and regulatory challenges will be crucial for enhancing future readiness and maximising technology investments.