Do Gender and Generational Differences Influence the Adoption of Generative AI in India?

Generative artificial intelligence is profoundly transforming work methods in India’s information technology sector. A recent study reveals that its adoption varies by gender and generation among employees, offering new insights into professional dynamics.

In India, generative AI is increasingly being integrated into the daily tasks of IT professionals. Women show greater confidence in this technology, displaying higher levels of optimism, dependence, and perceived vulnerability. They appear more inclined to use these tools to enhance their productivity, particularly in communication-oriented or project management roles. This trend may be explained by differences in the perception and use of technological tools, often linked to social or structural factors.

The findings also indicate that younger generations, particularly Generation Z, are adopting generative AI with more enthusiasm and dependence. Having grown up with digital technologies, they feel more comfortable with these innovations and naturally integrate them into their work. In contrast, Generation Y, often in managerial positions, stands out for its superior technical mastery, enabling them to fully exploit the potential of these tools.

Men, on the other hand, exhibit more pronounced technical skills, which may reflect greater experience or specialization in more technical fields such as software development. However, they show less optimism and dependence on generative AI than women.

These differences highlight the importance of considering the specificities of each group to tailor training and corporate policies. Companies could thus develop targeted training programs, addressing the distinct needs of men and women, as well as the expectations of different generations. For example, hands-on workshops could help employees less familiar with these technologies overcome their apprehensions, while advanced modules could strengthen the skills of the more experienced.

The study also sheds light on a major issue: generative AI is seen as a productivity lever, but also as a source of risks, particularly in terms of data security and misinformation. Women, being more sensitive to these aspects, could benefit from specific training on managing the risks associated with the use of these tools.

Finally, these observations show that the adoption of generative AI does not depend solely on technical skills, but also on attitudes, perceptions, and individual motivations. Companies that manage to understand and leverage these nuances will be better able to support their teams through this technological transition, while promoting more inclusive and effective adoption.

References

Origin of the Study

DOI: https://doi.org/10.1186/s13731-026-00663-4

Title: Technology adoption trends: generative AI among indian it employees across different generations and genders

Journal: Journal of Innovation and Entrepreneurship

Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC

Authors: Alpana Agarwal; Komal Kapoor