KPMG study finds high trust and efficiency in AI among Indian employees

A new study by KPMG reveals that Artificial Intelligence (AI) has become increasingly accepted among Indian employees, with 76 per cent expressing trust in the technology. Notably, 90 per cent of respondents indicated that AI has substantially improved their work efficiency, which suggests a transformative shift currently taking place in various sectors across the country.

However, the optimism is accompanied by concerns; 78 per cent of participants voiced worries about potential adverse outcomes linked to AI, and 60 per cent reported a decline in human interaction due to its prevalence in the workplace. Furthermore, while 67 per cent of respondents admitted they struggle to complete tasks without AI aid, an overwhelming 97 per cent stated they intentionally utilise AI at work.

Akhilesh Tuteja, KPMG’s head of technology in India, commented, “India stands at the cusp of a remarkable AI-powered future. With 90 per cent of Indians expressing approval of AI and 94 per cent anticipating a wide range of benefits, the data reflects a strong sense of optimism about what AI can achieve for the country.” He further emphasized the necessity for responsible AI governance to manage risks, particularly those like decreased human connection.

The report in question, titled “Trust, Attitudes and Use of Artificial Intelligence: A Global Study 2025,” was led by Professor Nicole Gillespie and Dr. Steve Lockey in collaboration with KPMG. It gathered responses from over 48,000 individuals across 47 countries between November 2024 and January 2025. The key findings underscore both the potential and pitfalls present in the AI landscape.

Gillespie pointed out that public trust in AI and its proper use are essential for ongoing acceptance and adoption. The study shows that, globally, 58 per cent of employees actively use AI, with 31 per cent doing so weekly or daily. In India, this number is higher, as 93 per cent of employees reported that their companies implemented AI, and an impressive 97 per cent indicated usage in their own roles.

Despite the positive statistics, the use of AI is fraught with challenges. Nearly half of employees worldwide acknowledged using AI in ways that violate company policies, including sharing sensitive information with free public AI tools. In India, 67 per cent of employees believe they cannot successfully complete tasks without AI, while 81 per cent rely on AI outputs without checking their accuracy.

The global landscape is strikingly similar, with 66 per cent relying on AI outputs without verification, leading to mistakes in work. In India, the figures are concerning, with 70 per cent using AI inappropriately and 73 per cent making mistakes due to its use. Compounding these issues, over 57 per cent of global employees admitted to hiding their AI usage and misrepresenting AI-generated work as their own.

Moreover, the study noted that in India, 83 per cent of companies have devised an AI strategy, with 86 per cent providing training on responsible AI usage, and 80 per cent having policies to guide such practices. Gillespie reflected on the findings: “The findings reveal that employees whose use of AI at work is delivering performance benefits but also opening up risk from complacent and non-transparent use.”

Despite the challenges, it is also worth mentioning that 82 per cent of Indian employees reported improvements in work quality and efficiency due to AI, while 77 per cent experienced a boost in revenue-generating activities. However, with 44 per cent experiencing increased workload and stress, the balance between benefits and challenges remains precarious.