Global AI Conclave | Zoho CEO Sridhar Vembu highlights risks and opportunities in AI

At Zoho, Vembu revealed ongoing efforts to enhance productivity in software development using AI. "We could raise the productivity of an average programmer with AI, and we need to work on developing that," he said, underscoring the transformative potential of AI in this sector.

Vembu further touched upon Zoho's focus on healthcare, citing an "intrinsic edge" that leads to developing domain-specific models. He emphasised the unique advantages AI offers within the healthcare sector, aligning with Sharma's sentiment on the vast opportunities in AI, particularly concerning India's extensive health datasets.

Discussing the need for regulation in the AI space, Vembu drew a parallel with the process for obtaining an NBFC license from the Reserve Bank of India (RBI). "Just like how RBI makes a process to obtain an NBFC licence, there will be a regulatory framework with data as well. We need that regulation to unlock the potential," he stated, advocating for a structured approach to govern AI applications.

Vembu also touched upon the importance of "brain capital" over financial capital, expressing confidence that once the challenges in intellectual resources are overcome, financial capital will naturally follow. He noted the entrance of AMD into the AI chip market and revealed a collaboration with them, predicting that supply chain issues related to chips will soon be resolved. "They have a very competitive silicon now. So with that, I think should the supply situation resolve, then it's a matter of getting the talent capital," he said.

As the conversation unfolded, it became evident that industry leaders like Vembu are not only aware of the challenges posed by AI but are actively working towards harnessing its potential in a responsible and transformative manner. The conclave provided a platform for valuable insights into the future landscape of AI, its risks, and the myriad opportunities it presents across various sectors.