Artificial Intelligence is often viewed as a job destroyer.* Critically examine Anand Mahindra’s argument that AI acts as an accelerator by complementing human skills, especially in blue-collar and shop-floor work. Discuss the conditions under which AI can enhance dignity of labour and contribute to inclusive economic growth in India.

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* AI is often seen as a job destroyer due to automation, but Anand Mahindra positions it as an **accelerator** that complements human skills, especially in blue-collar and shop-floor work.

* **Complementarity in practice:**

* AI handles repetitive, hazardous, or ergonomically demanding tasks.
  * Workers focus on supervision, decision-making, and complex problem-solving.
  * Example: Predictive maintenance and AI-assisted quality checks in manufacturing improve efficiency and reduce errors.

* **Enhancing dignity of labour:**

* Reduces physically strenuous tasks, improving safety and working conditions.
  * Allows workers to engage in higher-value roles, reinforcing skill relevance and workplace respect.

* **Conditions for inclusive economic growth in India:**

* **Upskilling and reskilling:** NSDC and industry-led training to align worker capabilities with AI technologies.
  * **Regulatory support:** Incentivising human-AI collaboration rather than pure automation.
  * **Equitable access:** Ensuring MSMEs and rural enterprises can adopt AI tools to prevent concentration of benefits.

* **Evidence and impact:**

* Automotive and textile sectors show AI adoption with human augmentation leads to higher productivity, wages, and labour satisfaction.
  * Policy-driven AI integration can preserve employment, boost operational efficiency, and strengthen India’s global competitiveness.

* Overall, AI has the potential to act as a **force multiplier**, provided skill development, access, and policy frameworks are effectively implemented.

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