The Significance of India in Kyndryl’s Growth Strategy
Kyndryl, a prominent IT service provider based in the United States, views India as a pivotal market for its business development, especially in the realm of AI solutions. The company recognizes the complex landscape that Indian businesses navigate, marked by the integration of AI, pressing cybersecurity concerns, and evolving workforce preparedness. In an engaging discussion, Una Pulizzi, Kyndryl’s Global Communications Manager for ESG & Corporate Affairs, alongside Lingraju Sawkar, President of Kyndryl India, elaborate on how their initiatives are reshaping the digital infrastructure for companies aiming for sustainable growth.
India: A Hub of Innovation and Business Opportunities
According to Sawkar, India stands out not only as a market ripe for business opportunities but also as a significant source of innovation. With Kyndryl operating in 60 countries and managing critical mission systems in sectors like banking, manufacturing, and airports, the company ensures a seamless daily experience. Many of the advanced technologies and platforms developed for the future originate in India, which boasts a unique blend of scalability, complexity, and frugal engineering that fosters innovation.
Driving Social Impact through Cybersecurity Initiatives
Pulizzi highlights the importance of social responsibility in Kyndryl’s growth strategy, particularly in India. The company’s board of directors made its first international visit to India, during which they engaged with community stakeholders. This interaction led to the launch of Cyber Rakshak, a program aimed at training rural women in cybersecurity and enabling them to educate others. Cyber Sainik, targeting 25,000 students, was developed based on feedback from Cyber Rakshak beneficiaries, illustrating Kyndryl’s commitment to bolstering cybersecurity skills as a core pillar of the Kyndryl Foundation.
The Role of ESG in Kyndryl’s Business Objectives
When discussing environmental, social, and governance (ESG) factors, Pulizzi states that these commitments serve as critical levers for Kyndryl’s commercial aspirations. The firm aims to achieve net greenhouse gas emissions by 2040 and to procure 100% of its electricity from renewable sources by 2030. This dedication fosters trust among employees and clients alike, aligning their values with actionable policies that support diverse talent acquisition and promote workplace equality.
Assessing IT Adoption Among Enterprises
Sawkar reveals that IT strategies in companies are increasingly focused on enhancing customer, employee, and partner experiences by modernizing legacy systems into data-driven environments. Kyndryl Bridge, an AI platform noted for its open integration capabilities, continuously monitors the IT landscape, analyzes data trends, and helps organizations mitigate problems proactively. With Kyndryl Bridge managing over 12 million opportunities monthly, the platform has reportedly assisted clients in avoiding nearly $3 billion annually in downtime costs.
Future Trends Influencing Kyndryl’s Strategic Direction
As Kyndryl looks to the future, Sawkar notes that India’s digitally progressive government is nurturing a vibrant startup ecosystem against a backdrop of GDP growth. Despite 95% of corporations globally exploring AI, a concerning 71% report that their workforce is not adequately prepared. Notably, optimism in India surpasses the global average by 8 points, illustrating confidence in future workforce readiness. Kyndryl’s focus remains on equipping clients and employees for the AI revolution through responsible practices surrounding AI application and risk management.
Conclusion
Kyndryl’s initiatives reflect a comprehensive strategy that not only addresses technological advancement but also emphasizes social responsibility and sustainable development in India. By harnessing local talent and fostering innovation, Kyndryl aims to lead the way in AI solutions and digital transformation, ensuring a better future for businesses and communities alike.