AI processes are Virtual Digital Employees, which can operate seamlessly 24/7 without errors, if properly trained and tested: Kripadyuti Sarkar, Group CIO, Ambuja Neotia

In an exclusive interaction, Kripadyuti Sarkar, Group CIO, Ambuja Neotia, highlights the company’s innovative approach to digital transformation. Ambuja Neotia is redefining its operational landscape through advanced AI technologies, enhancing customer communication with platforms like SalesForce and WhatsApp, and optimising construction planning with BIM and Autodesk Cloud. The company is also fortifying its cybersecurity with sophisticated threat detection systems. Looking ahead, Ambuja Neotia plans to implement AI-driven solutions for automatic bank and GST reconciliations and introduce a streamlined Procure-to-Pay system. As generative AI makes significant strides across various sectors, including customer support, software development, and finance, Ambuja Neotia is at the forefront of leveraging these advancements. The company’s robust measures to protect sensitive data and ensure system integrity highlight its proactive approach to cybersecurity. 

Can you take us through some of the recent digital initiatives you have taken? What has been the impact? What are some new digital or technology initiatives planned for the next six months to one year?

Recently, we have undertaken several digital initiatives with tangible benefits. For instance, we have integrated AI into our customer communication channels through platforms like SalesForce and WhatsApp, enhancing both inbound and outbound interactions. In construction planning, we adopted AI tools such as BIM and Autodesk Cloud to improve material planning, optimise project activities, and manage costs more accurately. We have also employed AI for threat detection using systems like SIEM and SOAR, and for central asset management to ensure zero errors and unauthorised applications. Additionally, Co-Pilot GenAI on O365 has improved employee productivity through better planning and timely updates. Looking ahead, we plan to implement AI-based solutions for automatic bank reconciliation and GST reconciliation on S4HANA. We are also developing an AI-based Procure-to-Pay solution for GST-registered vendors in SAP to automate the process from invoice receipt to SAP posting and settlement.

How do you see the traction for generative AI in the industry? Is your company leveraging it?

Generative AI is gaining significant traction across various industries. It is enhancing customer support through AI-driven chatbots that handle routine inquiries, allowing human agents to focus on more complex issues. In software development, generative AI is used for code generation, bug detection, and improving overall development efficiency. The healthcare sector benefits from AI in medical imaging, drug discovery, and personalised treatment plans, while the real estate industry uses AI for video analytics and virtual property tours. In media and marketing, generative AI automates content creation and enables personalised marketing. The finance sector leverages AI for fraud detection and predictive analytics, and AI is also optimising supply chains and production quality. At Ambuja Neotia, we extensively use AI for customer support, project monitoring, cyber threat detection, system performance optimisation, predictive maintenance, and omni-channel customer support through bots.

With the increasing importance of cybersecurity, what measures are you taking to ensure the security and integrity of your IT systems and sensitive data?

Ensuring the security and integrity of IT systems and sensitive data is paramount, especially with the new DPDP Act emphasising data protection. At Ambuja Neotia, we have implemented robust security measures including strong encryption protocols for data both at rest and in transit. We enforce role-based access control and multi-factor authentication to restrict data access to authorised personnel only. Our network is protected by firewalls and IDS to monitor and control traffic and detect suspicious activities. We use VPNs to secure remote access and ensure data is transmitted over encrypted channels. Communication APIs are secured with authentication and encryption, and systems are regularly updated with security patches. We conduct vulnerability assessments and penetration tests to address potential weaknesses. Additionally, we deploy non-signature-based AI-led anti-virus software and endpoint detection tools, use SIEM systems for continuous monitoring, and have a well-defined incident response plan. We also provide regular cybersecurity training to employees and conduct simulated phishing attacks to test their responses, ensuring adherence to industry standards like ISO 27001.

Among the areas of HR automation, AI, and workforce productivity, which one is your core interest, and what is your signature statement regarding it?

My core interest lies in AI. I believe that if a business process has a standard operating procedure, AI can perform it end-to-end with greater accuracy and efficiency than humans. I refer to these AI processes as Virtual Digital Employees (VDEs), which can operate seamlessly 24/7 without errors, if properly trained and tested.

As part of the Philanthropic Technical Association, how do you plan to contribute to the ecosystem?

My contribution to the ecosystem will be twofold. Firstly, I intend to utilise my technological knowledge and experience to address business challenges through innovative solutions. By sharing insights and exposing real business use cases, I aim to help solve problems with advanced technology. Secondly, I plan to bolster the nation’s intellectual property reserves by promoting IP protection among upcoming technology leaders. This involves creating awareness about the importance of IP and fostering a culture of patent filing, guiding individuals through the necessary processes to protect their innovations.