
In a significant initiative, students of Jio Institute hosted a panel discussion of industry leaders and AI experts to delve into the transformative impact of Artificial Intelligence (AI) across diverse sectors. The event highlighted AI’s pivotal role in shaping industries, from agriculture to automotive, with insights shared by representatives of leading organizations like the Hinduja Group and Mahindra Tech. The introductory address by Dr. Shailesh Kumar, Chief Data Scientist, Center of Excellence in AI/ML, Reliance Jio, opened the floor for talks on how transforming industries, with AI would be at the forefront of innovation.
AI Transforming the Automotive Sector
Mr. Mohit Kapoor, Group Chief Technology Officer at Mahindra & Mahindra, shared compelling examples of how AI, IOT are revolutionising various industries. AI-powered computer vision systems have automated traditional quality inspections in car paint shops, ensuring precision and efficiency. AR-enabled assembly lines and robotic welding systems optimize space utilization and operational accuracy.
Mahindra Tech has further enhanced customer experiences in the electric vehicle (EV) segment by leveraging AI to create metaverse-driven virtual test drives and racing simulations. This innovation has redefined customer engagement and sales strategies, as evidenced by Mahindra’s successful online car sales.
Hinduja Group’s AI Integration
The event also shed light on AI’s transformative applications in industry, pharmaceuticals agriculture and others, presented by Mr. Mukesh Rathi, Global Chief Digital Officer at the Hinduja Group. The Hinduja Group leverages AI across its diverse verticals to enhance efficiency and innovation. In automotive, AI aids in predictive maintenance and autonomous driving research. Its financial services use AI for risk assessment, fraud detection, and personalized solutions, while healthcare employs it for advanced diagnostics and telemedicine. Across IT and supply chain operations, AI streamlines workflows and decision-making, keeping the Group at the forefront of technological advancements. Using connected tractors integrated with cloud and satellite data, farmers are empowered with insights on crop health, mandi prices, and precision farming techniques. AI models analyse sugarcane content to optimize profitability, while autonomous tools determine ideal ploughing and sowing depths, showcasing a seamless blend of AI and traditional farming practices.
AI Across Real Estate and Energy Sectors
AI's scope extends beyond agriculture and automotive. Mahindra Tech’s initiatives in real estate, supported by AR and VR, allow potential buyers to explore virtual apartments, bridging the gap between imagination and reality. Panelist Mr. Siddhartha Ghosh, Director Consulting Services, from CGI elaborated on the integration of AI in solar energy optimization, manufacturing, and telematics, further demonstrating AI’s cross-industry influence.
Overcoming Challenges and Unlocking Potential
According to the panellist Mr. Mahesh Parab, Partner, PwC, “Embracing the fail-fast philosophy allows us to rapidly iterate and innovate and turn potential setbacks into valuable learning experiences. The AI enables us to detect those setbacks ahead of time while a product is in its early stages in the market and pre-empt potential downfalls."
Despite its vast potential, the adoption of AI faces challenges such as fragmented data and low stakeholder alignment. The panel emphasised building robust frameworks and fostering cultural alignment to overcome these barriers. The event concluded on a high note, with industry leaders urging businesses to embrace AI-driven innovation for a future of endless possibilities.