India AI Impact Summit 2026: 'If you don't do AI, AI will be done to you,' Sanjeev Bikhchandani's message to young professionals

At the India AI Impact Summit 2026 held at Bharat Mandapam, InfoEdge founder Sanjeev Bikhchandani addressed the transformative potential of artificial intelligence (AI) in the workplace. He reassured attendees that while AI may change the nature of work, it does not inherently lead to widespread job losses. Instead, he encouraged young professionals to embrace and learn new AI tools to enhance their productivity. Bikhchandani noted that the introduction of new technology often raises fears about job security. However, he pointed out that such advancements frequently lead to increased productivity, where existing employees accomplish more tasks. "When new technology comes in, there is almost always great fear of job loss. But very often productivity goes up, and people are doing more things," he stated. Illustrating his point, he referenced Naukri, the recruitment platform his company operates, which has expanded its outreach to previously underserved clients through AI-driven solutions. By implementing chatbots and automated calls, the platform can now serve smaller clients more effectively, demonstrating how AI can open up new opportunities rather than eliminate jobs. Bikhchandani shared his own experiences with AI, mentioning how he utilizes it in his daily work to summarize lengthy interviews and podcasts, thereby saving time and enhancing efficiency. He reminisced about his early career in 1989, when he became indispensable by mastering presentation software that few of his peers could use. This adaptability, he believes, is crucial in the age of AI. He advised young professionals to focus on learning practical AI tools rather than getting caught up in broader policy discussions. "You don't worry about systemic problems. You just worry about your individual job and career. What should you do to make sure AI doesn't make you lose your job? Just learn 5-10-15 useful AI tools," he recommended. Bikhchandani's final message was clear: AI is an unstoppable force, and those who do not engage with it risk being left behind. "If you don't do AI, AI will be done to you. So you better do AI," he concluded, emphasizing the importance of staying ahead in a rapidly evolving technological landscape.