More than 30% of new code at Google is now generated by AI, CEO Sundar Pichai said during Alphabet’s recent Q1 2025 earnings call. The search major is seeing strong momentum in the use of AI-assisted coding across teams, driven by more capable models and the introduction of agentic workflows. At Microsoft, 20%-30% of their code is written by AI and if their CTO, Kevin Scott, is to be believed, this figure will spiral up to 95% by 2030.
The AI tsunami has enveloped most tech companies and coding has come to the point where there are now plugins where you tell the AI what you want to achieve, and it’ll write the code for you—even fix errors you (or it) made. Code automation involves using scripts, tools, and software to automate tasks related to software development, testing, and IT operations. This phenomenon has both lowered the barrier of entry for programmers and put their jobs at risk at the same time.
India boasts a large pool of developers, with a growing number entering the IT sector each year. However, there are concerns regarding the overall quality of Indian developers. Are they facing an existential crisis? Is the workforce well versed (or being trained) in AI and other technologies?
“Not an existential crisis, but a transformation,” said Ramanujam Thirumalai, CTO, Global Products and Solutions, NIIT. Over the last four decades, developers have always adapted — from punch cards to assembly language to 3rd/4th generation languages to modern full-stack. The core need has not changed: solving problems, innovating unique user experiences and creating value with technology.
“Is AI a major shift? Yes, AI is a disruptive next step. Will developers need to work differently? Yes. But those who embrace change and build new skills will see even more opportunities ahead,” Thirumalai said, while highlighting the skill gaps both at the entry level and for lateral talent. “Employers now look for 6-7 core skills, not degrees or silo skills. Experienced talent needs to rewire themselves,” he added. To stay relevant in the AI-driven era, developers must go beyond traditional programming skills and cultivate a deep understanding of AI, machine learning, and responsible data practices.
For the uninitiated, AI can now write basic code, generate documentation, design web pages, and even create test cases. It sounds great—but here’s the catch: without strong coding and problem-solving skills, developers are not able to make good use of these tools, said Thirumalai. “AI helps the skilled developers go faster, but it exposes gaps in the average developers. So, it’s more important than ever before to build strong fundamentals on multiple core skills,” he added.
According to Ramesh Jampula, vice-president, IT, India and APJC regional CIO, Dell Technologies, AI and automation are undoubtedly transforming how coding is approached—especially when it comes to mundane or repetitive tasks. Routine activities like code completion, debugging assistance, basic UI component generation, DevOps practices and test script creation are increasingly being augmented by AI-driven tools. For instance, tools like GitHub Copilot, TensorFlow, PyTorch or AI-based testing platforms now help automate parts of the development cycle, increasing productivity and consistency across teams. AI can analyse code changes, test results, and production metrics to provide insights on performance, quality, and potential issues.
“However, while AI supports and accelerates coding, it doesn’t replace the foundational understanding of coding,” Jampula said. In fact, the AI era calls for a broader and deeper set of technical skills. Jampula feels that developers need familiarity with machine learning algorithms, natural language processing (NLP), neural networks, and deep learning frameworks.
Historically, concerns about new technologies replacing human jobs have proven unfounded. The same will undoubtedly hold true for developers, according to Karan MV, director, International Developer Relations at GitHub. AI can assist with coding, but that’s only one aspect of a developer’s role. Fundamentally, developers are problem-solvers who use software to address specific tasks. AI will not replace developers, but instead, by automating code generation, it will allow developers to focus on finding the most effective and efficient solutions.
According to Nasscom, over 65% of tech jobs will evolve in the next five years, highlighting the need for developers to shift from just writing code to solving problems with AI-enabled tools. Even Salesforce’s latest State of IT report shows that more than 89% of developers believe AI will soon be a fundamental job requirement—but over half (51%) don’t feel their skillsets are fully prepared for the agentic era. “That’s why upskilling is so crucial right now,” said Sanket Atal, managing director—Salesforce India Operations.
“India has a deep and growing pool of technical talent, and we are seeing a clear shift towards upskilling in emerging areas such as AI, machine learning, data and prompt engineering,” said Kishore Seshagiri, chief digital officer, Broadridge India. He stresses that developers who embrace continuous learning and reskilling will not only stay relevant but also lead the charge in building the next generation of intelligent, human-centered solutions.