AI is an accelerator, not a threat: Anand Mahindra

Mahindra Group Chairman Anand Mahindra, in his New Year address to group employees, said artificial intelligence (AI) should be treated as an accelerator rather than a threat as it will take blue-collar jobs to a new level of long-term relevance.

“Many fear disruption as AI reshapes industries. I respectfully disagree. I believe AI is an accelerator, not a threat. As intelligent systems take over everyday tasks, practical skills accelerated by AI will become a premium asset, delivering income, dignity, and taking blue-collar jobs to new levels of long-term relevance,” he said.

“AI will fundamentally change the value of 'hands-on' skills. Technicians who can confidently work alongside AI, mechanics who understand digital tools, and craftsmen whose intuition is enhanced by data will transform the world of work in the field,” he said.

“We will rediscover the value of people who can build, fabricate, repair and operate the real machines of life. When technology enhances skilled hands, they can become as rewarding, if not more rewarding, than traditional white-collar jobs. AI can turn blue-collar into gold,” he stressed.

He said the Group will strengthen the talent pipeline the world needs, from Mahindra Tractors Skill Development Center to Tech Mahindra's Future Ready Talent Academy.

Highlighting Mahindra's leadership across all business markets, he said Mahindra's SUV business led the market with a record share, reaffirming the company's ability to anticipate what customers truly want. He said the farm equipment business achieved its highest ever market share in the quarter, proving that innovation in the field changes lives.

He said the electric three-wheeler business continues to dominate in the highly competitive space and Tech Mahindra has increased its lead in the areas of AI and operational excellence and achieved eight consecutive quarters of profit expansion, while Mahindra Finance has scaled new heights with a combination of solid profit growth and industry-leading asset quality.

He said Mahindra Lifespaces continues its momentum in the sustainable real estate space with record gross development value addition and industry-first net zero projects, while Mahindra Holidays conceptualizes Mahindra Signature Resorts, marking a bold move towards experiential travel.

And Mahindra Susten continued to drive India's green transition and strengthened its leadership in renewable energy innovation, he added.

“These achievements are not just milestones, they are launching pads. They tell a story of a group united by purpose and driven by boldness firing on all cylinders,” he stressed.

“For decades, Mahindra was seen as a homegrown brand known for rugged reliability. Today, we are perceived as modern, confident and future-ready. EVs didn't just change our portfolio; they changed the conversation. They were a signal that Mahindra has mastered cutting-edge technology and is shaping the future of mobility,” he pointed out.

He said that while advances in technology and changes in geopolitics may make the world unpredictable, “uncertainty is not our enemy, it is our testing ground.”

“With sharper capabilities, deeper skills, and an unwavering commitment to developing a world-class workforce, we will not only weather the storm, but chart a new path for growth. The future belongs to those who will build it. Let's build it together,” he concluded.