Women in tech on how AI & semiconductor innovation is reshaping Indian tech
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Women in tech on how AI & semiconductor innovation is reshaping Indian tech

The last two years have marked a dramatic shift in India’s technology landscape, with rapid advancements reshaping industries, workflows, and infrastructure. While change has always been a constant in the tech world, the pace at which AI, cloud computing, quantum computing, and semiconductor advancements have evolved have been of particular interest here in India. 

From AI-driven automation to India’s strengthened semiconductor ecosystem, the country has established itself as a global player in tech innovation, attested by influential women tech leaders (on the occasion of International Women’s Day 2025) with their invaluable insights.

Also read: AMD’s Jaya Jagadish: India to play ‘transformative role’ in global AI, datacenter and chip landscape

Jaya Vaidhyanathan, CEO of BCT Digital, reflects on this shift, noting, “When I began my career, changes across the technology and the business environment were more gradual. The risk environment was stable, and technology investments were growing steadily. AI is already changing the game and boosting efficiency in many areas. Agility is key, and by listening closely to our clients and understanding their needs, we can transform challenges into opportunities. With increased disruption comes new opportunities. Those who are quick to identify and act on them will rise as market leaders – and we are positioned at the forefront of this change.” Her statement encapsulates the essence of India’s evolving technological momentum – those who adapt swiftly will lead the charge.

The AI revolution is powering efficiency and transformation

AI has emerged as the backbone of digital transformation across industries, fundamentally changing how businesses operate. Automating repetitive tasks, enhancing decision-making, and streamlining workflows have become core benefits of AI integration. Archana Bajaj, Director of Software Engineering at Pegasystems, highlights, “AI has undoubtedly been a game changer, with rapid advancements over the past two years driving major disruptions and reshaping the workforce across industries. By automating repetitive tasks like never before, AI is unlocking new levels of efficiency. With just a few clicks, building enterprise-grade applications has become faster and more intuitive, taking minutes instead of hours. From AI-powered agents and chatbots in people management and learning & development to intelligent document automation, we are enhancing productivity and streamlining processes across the board.”

Also read: Women leaders in tech highlight how inclusive innovation’s shaping the future

The widespread adoption of AI has had an undeniable impact on industries like healthcare, where it has revolutionised diagnostics, treatment plans, and patient management. Kalavathi GV, Executive Director & Head of the Global Development Center at Siemens Healthineers, underscores this transformation: “In the healthcare sector, the acceleration of digital adoption, enhanced telemedicine and remote monitoring capabilities, push for personalised medicine, and the increasing role of AI in diagnostics and workflow automation have been defining shifts.”

Cloud AI is becoming the infrastructure backbone

India’s cloud adoption rate has seen an impressive surge, with organisations investing in scalable, agile, and cost-effective digital infrastructure. As Krithika Bhat, CIO of Pure Storage, points out, “India’s tech landscape has seen remarkable growth over the past two years, driven by rapid cloud adoption, AI innovation, and a heightened focus on sustainability. According to Nasscom, India’s public cloud market is expected to reach $17.8 billion by 2027, reflecting the increasing demand for agile and scalable infrastructure. Organisations are accelerating digital transformation, leveraging AI-driven insights, and rethinking data infrastructure to stay competitive.”

India’s semiconductor ecosystem is growing fast

One of the most significant strides India has made in recent years is in the semiconductor industry. Recognising the importance of self-sufficiency in chip manufacturing, the government has rolled out various incentives to attract global players and establish India as a semiconductor powerhouse. Sharmila Khan, Country Head of the People Organization at Micron India, explains, “In the last two years, India has taken significant steps to improve the semiconductor ecosystem and positioning itself as an integral part of the global semiconductor arena. Moreover, across our two R&D sites out of Bengaluru and Hyderabad, over the last 5 years, we have initiated R&D initiatives that are in every single category of our major product line. Micron has a unique footprint in India and is the only global major to be vested across the semiconductor value chain in India, encompassing design, engineering and (back end) assembly manufacturing.”

Also read: Women leaders in tech share their secret to success for aspiring women techies

This strategic investment in semiconductors will play a crucial role in reducing India’s reliance on foreign imports, thereby strengthening the country’s position in the global technology supply chain.

India’s fintech and digital infrastructure’s a model for the world

India’s fintech sector has flourished, fueled by digital payments, neobanking, and AI-driven financial solutions. The rise of UPI (Unified Payments Interface) and blockchain-based transactions has made financial services more accessible to the masses. 

Anita Kapoor, Director – Legal at Lenovo India, acknowledges the role of government-backed incentives in fostering technological innovation, stating, “India’s growing infrastructure and technological developments have opened newer avenues for both the youth and experienced professionals. The rate of innovation backed by technology in the country, supported and encouraged by the government through incentives, initiatives, and infrastructure, is commendable.”

From streamlining cross-border transactions to ensuring enhanced cybersecurity measures, fintech firms are redefining financial accessibility and transparency, paving the way for a cashless economy.

A global tech powerhouse in the making

With India cementing its status as a global technology hub, the focus now shifts to sustainability, cybersecurity, and next-generation innovations. As businesses and policymakers continue to push the boundaries of innovation, India’s tech ecosystem will likely remain on an upward trajectory, fostering economic expansion and global competitiveness.

As Jaya Vaidhyanathan aptly summarises, “With increased disruption comes new opportunities. Those who are quick to identify and act on them will rise as market leaders.” In an era defined by rapid digital evolution, India is well-positioned to lead the charge, shaping the future of global technology for years to come.

Also read: Two talented Indian women are reimagining gaming for better: Here’s how

Jayesh ShindeJayesh Shinde

Jayesh Shinde

Executive Editor at Digit. Technology journalist since Jan 2008, with stints at Indiatimes.com and PCWorld.in. Enthusiastic dad, reluctant traveler, weekend gamer, LOTR nerd, pseudo bon vivant. View Full Profile

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