Archive · 7 Sep 2026
Cloud and AI Could Propel India's Economic Growth
Arundhati Bhattacharya says cloud computing and AI can give Indian businesses powerful tools.
These tools once required very large amounts of money.
Smaller companies can now use analytics, personalization and access to global markets.
She believes India can move ahead quickly in the technology revolution.
Businesses need to do more than add simple digital tools.
They should organize their data, change how work is done and train people.
Bhattacharya says AI can help workers do new kinds of tasks instead of simply replacing them.
She cited estimates that AI could add hundreds of billions of dollars to India’s economy by 2035.
Salesforce South Asia CEO Arundhati Bhattacharya said cloud and AI could help India leapfrog in technology.
Cloud and AI allow smaller companies to access analytics, personalization, intelligence and global markets with less capital.
NITI Aayog estimates accelerated AI adoption could add $500-$600 billion to India’s GDP by 2035.
Bhattacharya said businesses should improve data systems, redesign work and build practical AI skills.
She argued AI could create jobs by helping businesses meet demand they currently cannot handle because of limited capacity.
- Who
- Arundhati Bhattacharya, Salesforce’s President and CEO for South Asia and former SBI chairperson, addressed IMC Chamber of Commerce members.
- What
- She described how cloud computing and artificial intelligence could help Indian businesses transform, create jobs and accelerate economic growth.
- When
- The remarks were made on Monday at the 120th Foundation Day of the IMC Chamber of Commerce; the articles do not provide a calendar date.
- Where
- At the 120th Foundation Day event of the IMC Chamber of Commerce; the specific location is not stated.
- Why
- Bhattacharya said India must use technology to transform businesses, improve productivity, meet unmet demand and develop future AI skills.
- GDP opportunity
- Accelerated AI adoption could add $500-$600 billion to India’s GDP by 2035, according to NITI Aayog estimates cited by Bhattacharya.
- Manufacturing opportunity
- AI-led productivity in manufacturing could create an $85-$100 billion opportunity.
- Financial-services opportunity
- AI could create a $50-$55 billion opportunity in financial services.
- Digital economy
- India’s digital economy is expected to grow almost twice as fast as the overall economy and represent nearly one-fifth of national income by 2029-30.
- Business priorities
- Bhattacharya recommended organizing data, redesigning work and moving from pilots to practical skills.
- Job outlook
- She said AI could create more jobs by helping businesses fulfill demand they currently cannot meet because of limited capacity.
