New Delhi: A recent warning by entrepreneur and Shark Tank India judge Anupam Mittal has sparked a heated debate across social media and startup circles. In a widely discussed LinkedIn post, Mittal cautioned professionals about the disruptive impact artificial intelligence could have on the future of work, triggering both support and criticism from industry leaders and employees alike.
Mittal’s message focused on what he described as the “bitter truth” about AI-driven workplace transformation. According to him, many professionals are underestimating the speed at which AI is reshaping businesses. In a separate observation, he argued that middle-management roles could face greater disruption than software developers, stating that AI is increasingly capable of handling reporting, coordination and decision-support tasks traditionally performed by managers.
His comments come at a time when AI adoption is accelerating across industries. According to global consulting reports, generative AI could automate up to 30% of current work activities by the end of this decade. Companies worldwide are investing billions into AI-powered tools aimed at improving productivity and reducing operational costs.
The startup ecosystem responded with mixed opinions. Supporters praised Mittal for addressing uncomfortable realities that many organizations prefer to ignore. Several founders noted that AI tools are already replacing repetitive tasks in customer service, content generation, marketing analytics and operational management.
However, critics argued that the narrative around AI-related job losses is often exaggerated. Many technology professionals pointed out that previous technological revolutions, from computers to cloud computing, ultimately created new categories of jobs even as they eliminated older ones. They believe AI will augment human capabilities rather than completely replace workers.
The debate reflects a broader global conversation about the future of employment. According to the World Economic Forum, while millions of jobs may be displaced by automation, new technology-driven roles are expected to emerge simultaneously. Skills such as AI literacy, problem-solving, creativity and strategic thinking are increasingly becoming critical for career growth.
